A new research initiative led by youth charity WĀHI with support from Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi will investigate how best to support the mental health and wellbeing of rangatahi Māori living in rural and remote communities.
According to the 2021/22 New Zealand Health Survey, 23.6% of youth aged 15-24 experienced high or very high psychological distress; more than double the 11% rate from 2020. Over half of that age group now report symptoms of anxiety or depression, with unmet treatment need rising by 77% since 2016/17. Youthline’s 2023 “State of the Generation” report found 82% of rangatahi consider mental health (anxiety, depression, stress) the most pressing issue, with demand for support rising rapidly.
Rangatahi Māori report much higher rates of distress: depressive symptoms rose from 14% in 2012 to 28% in 2019; suicide attempts in the past year climbed from 6% to 13%. Māori youth have greater likelihood of hospitalisation for intentional self-harm and higher substance use rates than Pākehā. Pacific rangatahi show similar worsening trends: depressive symptoms rose from 14% to 25%, and suicide attempts from 7% to 12%.
Young people identifying as rainbow, disabled, Asian, or having intersecting minority identities face significantly elevated risks, though inclusive environments (e.g. rainbow‑friendly schools) offer protective benefits
