Hazardous and problem drinking

Sex differences

Males of all ages were more likely to report drinking large amounts of alcohol than females, though the sex differences in the 12 to 17 age group were not statistically significant. 

The difference was particularly large among young people aged 18 to 24, in which age group 37.1 percent of males drank heavily at least once a week, compared to 21.5 percent of females. 

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.