Internet access
Note: The data and text for this section is sourced in whole or in part from the following report: Ministry of Social Development (2008), Children and Young People: Indicators of Wellbeing in New Zealand 2008. Wellington: Ministry of Social Development.
Definition
The proportion of young people aged 12 to 24 who have an internet connection in their home.
Relevance
The internet provides access to significant and growing amounts of information and knowledge. Young people who lack access to the internet – or the skills to use the internet – risk falling behind in an increasingly knowledge-based society. Access to email and websites is also important due to the role that such resources play in maintaining young people’s social relationships.
Current level and trends
According to the 2006 Census, 69.4 percent of young people aged 12 to 24 had a home internet connection.
This is a significant growth from the level of 48.9 percent in the 2001 census.
Proportion of young people aged 12 to 24 with an internet connection in their home, 2001 and 2006
Source: Statistics New Zealand, Census.
