Media release

From: Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Trust

Public housing can help level the playing field for children

A new Motu Research study shows starting life in public housing can set children up for a brighter future.

The study followed nearly 6,000 children from birth to age 12 and found while children in public housing had more behavioural challenges at age two, those challenges eased more quickly than for their peers in other housing. By age nine, their behaviour matched others — and by age 12, their overall wellbeing was just as strong, if not stronger.

“This research reinforces the importance of properly supporting families in the early years” says Jaimie Monk, the study’s lead author. “These children were from some of the most disadvantaged situations, but early public housing appears to support them to catch up and thrive.”

The study used data from the Growing Up in New Zealand study and focused on how housing type at birth affects children’s wellbeing over time. It also looked at key factors linked to positive outcomes — including strong relationships with whānau and teachers, not being bullied, and time spent outdoors.

“Good housing is just one part of the puzzle,” says Jaimie Monk. “Supportive relationships and stability matter too. When these come together, children do well.”

Frequent house moves were linked to slightly lower wellbeing, but the impact was small when other factors were considered.

The findings highlight the importance of giving families stable, healthy housing early — and ensuring young children get the support they need in the preschool years.

“This is hopeful news,” says Jaimie Monk. “With the right foundations, we can reduce inequality and give every child the chance to flourish.”