Encouraging families to live healthy lives – by making good food choices, being physically active, sustaining a healthy weight, not smoking and drinking alcohol only in moderation – is part of the Government’s approach to promoting good health.
As in many countries around the world, obesity and its associated health problems are increasing in New Zealand. A high body mass index is now one of the top three risk factors contributing to ill health and disability, and reduced life expectancy. The costs of the consequences of obesity are shouldered not only by individuals and families, but also by our communities, our health services and the whole of society.
A number of steps are being taken to help New Zealanders improve their nutrition, increase their physical activity and to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Drivers of obesity are complex and are shaped by biological, environmental, and social influences. International evidence on what is effective in reducing obesity is still evolving; there is agreement that multiple actions across a range of sectors and settings are required to cover both prevention and treatment.
The purpose of this publication is to outline for the public, in a single place, the many and varied actions being taken to help New Zealanders improve their nutrition, increase their physical activity and to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.