Hazardous and problem drinking

Age differences

Young people aged 18 to 24 were more likely to drink large amounts of alcohol at least weekly than any other age group.

37.1 percent of males and 21.5 percent of females aged 18 to 24 reported drinking large amounts of alcohol at least once a week, compared to around 16 percent of males and 10 percent of females aged 25 to 34.

In general, hazardous alcohol consumption declined with age.

Proportion of population drinking large amounts of alcohol at least once a week, by sex and age group, 2004

Proportion of population drinking large amounts of alcohol at least once a week, by sex and age group, 2004

Source: 2004 New Zealand Health Behaviours Survey – Alcohol Use.