Selective drinking redefining Gen Z alcohol culture

The New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council (NZABC) has found that Gen Z are becoming more selective about the way they drink.

According to the NZABC more adults than ever are choosing to drink in moderation.

Five out of six New Zealanders drink beer, wine and spirits responsibly, its says.

Although increasing moderation is evident across all age groups, it is more evident among younger cohorts.

NZABC executive director Virginia Nicholls says that Gen Z are reflecting on how they drink.

“Many integrate low and no-alcohol options, take occasional breaks and focus on context, connection and experience rather than volume”

“More people in the 18 to 24-year age group are choosing not to drink, since 2012 we have seen a 7.6 per cent reduction in those who choose to drink.”

Nicholls says that we are seeing a growing shift towards moderate drinking and healthy lifestyles, as our hazardous drinking and alcohol consumption continues to decline.

According to a Ministry of Health survey, Gen Z's alcohol consumption between the ages of 18 to 24 years has decreased by over 7 per cent since the 2020 survey.

Nicholls says, “There are some encouraging trends, however we still have a way to go,”

The Ministry of Health's data shows that gender effects young people's drinking habits as well, 81.5 per cent of men aged 18-24 had consumed alcohol in the past 12 months opposed to 75.4 per cent of women.

In 2019 alcohol was the leading behavioural cause of death among 15–19-year-olds in New Zealand according to a study by action point.

AUTSA president James Portgeys says that AUTSA is seeing a noticeable shift in student behaviour, with fewer students choosing to drink alcohol or participate in traditional nightlife.

“While there has been a broader trend of declining alcohol consumption, the cost of living is now outweighing the enjoyment for many students,” says Portgeys

Portgeys says that students should be able to focus on their studies without the constant pressure of financial hardship.

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