We know that being active contributes positively to overall wellbeing and by starting young, kiwi kids are more likely to develop a life-long love of physical activity.
Every New Zealander should be able to access a quality experience at home, within their neighbourhood and across their community. There are four ways we support New Zealander's getting active:
Play is a vital part of children's physical and cognitive development. It’s taken for granted that play will always be a part of childhood for those growing up in New Zealand. Levels of play are in decline due to shifting cultural values, denser urbanisation and as a result fears about children’s safety. So, how are we supporting children to navigate these new challenges?
Physical education is a key enabler of quality sport and recreation experiences for young people. Within the education setting there are numerous opportunities to ensure young people have access to enriching physical activity options. This can involve movement opportunities within wider learning areas, and within the context of health and wellbeing.
Active recreation is non-competitive physical activity for the purpose of wellbeing and enjoyment. In New Zealand, we have a wide range of choices when it comes to active recreation - walking, swimming, cycling, equipment-based exercise, fishing, running, yoga and more. And, we have lots of opportunities to participate regardless of our age, life stage, income, culture, place of residence, physical ability or other factors.
Sport is at the heart of who we are as New Zealanders - helping create happier, healthier people, better connected communities and a stronger New Zealand. Unfortunately, teenage participation in sport is declining for multiple reasons, and we need to better understand these so we can keep young people in sport.
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