17-Year Data Collection

The 17-Year Data Collection is the next chapter in the Growing Up in New Zealand study. It focuses on the lives, experiences, and well-being of young people as they move through their late teens. This phase builds on 16 years of rich information already collected and will help create an even stronger picture of what supports young people and their families to thrive.   

We hope as many young people as possible take part, along with their families.  Our team is here to support you. Please let us know how we can help.
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What can you expect

The 17-Year Data Collection has two parts: completing the consent process (for both the young person and the main caregiver) and completing the 17-Year questionnaires. You can find your consent forms and questionnaire links in the HOME Participant Portal. These have also been emailed to you.

This is an important part of the study, so there are several sections to complete in your questionnaire. Remember, you don’t have to answer everything in one sitting; your progress will be saved so you can return to it whenever it suits you. Once you’ve finished your questionnaire(s), you’ll be able to claim your voucher through HOME or online. 

Young person consent & questionnaire

Now that the young people in the study are over 16, they are being asked to provide their own consent to continue taking part in Growing Up in New Zealand. Until now, a parent or caregiver has given consent on their behalf. If the young person chooses to continue in the study, they will then be asked to consent to taking part in the 17-Year Data Collection.

The Participant Information Sheets in HOME and sent via email, provide detailed information about this part of the study. Please read them thoroughly and talk to people around you to help you make decisions about this part of the study.

You can also find more information on how to decide if you agree to sharing your Growing Up in New Zealand data from the 17-Year Data Collection with StatsNZ here.

The 17-Year questionnaire will ask you questions about lots of parts of your life, including: experiences at home and school, your friendships and other important relationships, connection to culture and your community.  You will also be asked about your health and wellbeing.

Main caregiver consent & questionnaire

Main caregivers will also be asked to re-consent to being part of the Growing Up in New Zealand study, and then to take part in the 17-Year Data Collection Wave. Main caregivers will complete two questionnaires: one about their own life and experiences, and one about their young person in the study — this is called the Child Proxy Questionnaire. The Child Proxy Questionnaire is only completed if the young person has consented to remain in the Growing Up in New Zealand study.

Next steps

  • Please review the participant information sheets via HOME or check your email.
  • Complete the consent forms about continuing to take part in the study, and then about taking part in the 17 year Data Collection Wave.
  • If you consent to take part, complete the questionnaire/s
  • Claim your voucher through HOME or the link emailed to you.

Any more questions?

If you require further assistance or have any questions about the questionnaire or Growing Up in New Zealand in general, please email contact@growingup.co.nz or free phone 0508 476 946.

Talk to your family, friends or support services, if you are worried about anything. If you think you, or someone you know, may be experiencing mental health challenges, there are several free tools or services that can help.  In an emergency, call 111.