Statistics on single-parent families

THIS PAGE IS BEING UPDATED September 2021

Census 2013

Single-parent families are becoming more common in New Zealand, as shown by national statistics.

Generally, just under 20% of all New Zealand families are single-parent families. In certain communities across the country, up to one-third of all families are led by one person. Children raised by one parent are usually an only child or have one other sibling. Single parents/caregivers are generally mothers aged 25-50. Half of these parents are employed and one-third of single parents/caregivers work full-time.