The Salvation Army’s State of the Pacific Peoples report reveals that while Pacific communities in Aotearoa are facing severe housing challenges, there is notable progress in employment, youth suicide, and crime reduction.
The report, authored by social policy analyst Ana Ika, presents a mixed picture: improvements in Pacific employment and youth outcomes, yet persisting issues in housing, child poverty, and educational disparities.
“Housing instability is at the heart of many challenges facing Pacific families,” said Ika. The report identifies five critical areas: children and youth, work and income, housing, crime and punishment, and social hazards. Ika describes the report as a “kete of knowledge” for Pacific communities to navigate forward collectively.
The findings show a drop of over 50% in youth suicide and a near doubling of Pacific employment over the past decade, with youth offending down by two-thirds. Despite this, child poverty remains high, with 23,000 Pacific children predicted to be left behind under rising poverty targets. Only 20% of Pacific students are reaching university entrance, reflecting ongoing educational challenges.
Significant rental increases compound the housing crisis in Pacific-dense areas, such as a 110% rise in Cannons Creek North, Wellington, and 71% in Favona North, Auckland. “For many families, food is often sacrificed to cover rent and power costs,” noted Ika.
The report also points out an increase in hazardous drinking, drug use, and gambling harm, highlighting a need for targeted investments in housing, education, and harm minimization. Ika refers to the cultural context of Pacific financial obligations like “fa’alavelaves,” often misunderstood outside the community.
“Pacific communities are an integral part of Aotearoa, and our future depends on addressing these challenges together,” said Ika. The report emphasizes solutions to strengthen Pacific well-being and inspire lasting progress.
