Neighbourhoods and health: A review of the New Zealand literature

Abstract

Over the past two decades, there has been a resurgence of interest into place-based influences on health. Researchers have identified that various characteristics of neighbourhoods exert an influence on the health outcomes and behaviours of local residents. Understanding the processes linking places to health provides considerable potential for a range of policy interventions. We review the New Zealand-based neighbourhoods and health research. Consideration is given to the types of neighbourhood characteristics, as well the range of health outcomes that have been studied. Finally, we suggest some priorities for further research into the mechanisms underpinning neighbourhood influences on health in New Zealand. © 2009 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2009 The New Zealand Geographical Society.