The activity gap in Aotearoa New Zealand: what it is, why it matters and what we can do about it.

Abstract

ABSTRACT The disparity in young people’s access to extracurricular activities, known as the activity gap, remains largely unexplored in Aotearoa New Zealand. In this qualitative study we aimed to identify barriers to accessing activities and potential solutions. We interviewed 12 key informants between December 2021 to February 2022 with experience in providing extracurricular activities or relevant academic or policy-making expertise. Participants identified many positive impacts from extracurricular participation including improved wellbeing, social connection, and skill development. All agreed there is inequitable access to extracurricular activities in Aotearoa New Zealand with children from low socioeconomic backgrounds most affected. Participants explained how poverty created interconnected financial, transportation and infrastructure barriers. Community-embedded extracurricular programmes with low or no fees were considered an effective measure for increasing access. We recommend existing and novel community-led programmes are supported to expand their services, including support for disadvantaged communities to access funding opportunities. We also recommend examples of good practice within schools are disseminated to seed ideas. Further government investment in infrastructure and policy is required to alleviate poverty and facilitate participation. We recognise ongoing awareness, advocacy, and action at both community and policy levels will be required to ultimately close the activity gap in Aotearoa New Zealand.