Abstract
Home ownership has been associated with health, social and economic benefits. However, a decline in ownership has been observed over the past decade in New Zealand. Minority groups, including Pacific people, have been disadvantaged in the housing sector. This study investigated housing tenure and the relationship between tenure and health among mothers of a birth cohort of Pacific children in New Zealand. Findings showed that most families lived in state or private rental accommodation with few (15.4 per cent) owning their own homes. Homeowners were more likely to be older, partnered and have higher incomes. Better mental health was observed for homeowners compared to renters. Findings can inform housing and public health policy for Pacific families.
Acknowledgements
The PIF Study is supported by grants awarded from the Foundation for Science, Research and Technology, the Health Research Council of New Zealand and the Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust. The authors gratefully acknowledge the families who have participated in the study, the Pacific Peoples Advisory Board and the other members of the research team.