Differences in patterns of alcohol consumption between Maori and non-Maori in Aotearoa (New Zealand)

To describe relative differences in alcohol consumption patterns in Maori and non-Maori from all available large-scale New Zealand surveys.

Data from five New Zealand surveys (national and population specific) conducted since 1988 were made available to the investigators and were re-analysed by sex and age group in Maori and non-Maori using multivariate modelling.

There was a total of 44 830 people in the combined study populations, of whom 6926 (15.4%) were Maori. There was significant variation in the populations sampled and instruments used for measuring alcohol; however, the relative differences in consumption patterns between Maori and non-Maori were similar across all studies. In all age groups, and in men and women, non-Maori were more likely to be drinkers. The strength of this relationship increased with age. In all age groups, frequency of alcohol consumption (days a year) was higher for non-Maori, though the relative volume drunk on a usual drinking occasion was consistently around 40% less than for Maori. The averaged daily volume of alcohol consumed was similar between Maori and non-Maori.

Maori have markedly different alcohol consumption patterns from non-Maori, which are not apparent when averaged daily alcohol consumption is compared. Frequency of drinking and amount consumed on a typical drinking occasion should be considered when determining the relationship between Maori alcohol consumption and health-related problems.