Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora kaimahi joined forces with other agencies in a workshop focussed on the singular goal of achieving 20°C as the minimum temperature within homes* - even on a cold winter’s night - without breaking the bank.
Nik Gregg, from Sustainability Options, facilitated the session and he said New Zealanders have a ‘housing culture’ where we accept poor conditions and living practices.
“We kiwis grow up tough in our wooden tents. We skate barefooted and wear stubbies year-round.
“I have many kōrero with whānau about the cold. Often people say to me 13°C is ‘not that cold, I’ll just put a blanket on.’ I reply, maybe, but it’s unhealthy though.”
The impact of cold, damp homes on health can be very serious.
Poor living conditions can exacerbate diseases like rheumatic fever, cardiovascular disease, respiratory illnesses and infections, asthma, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis and mental health issues.
Nik guided the group through what happens at night when our bodies are recuperating.
In a warm, dry home our bodies go to work, reenergising, fighting any illnesses we have been exposed to and resting in preparation for the day ahead. But if your room temperature drops below the optimum, several things can happen.
“At 16°C our respiratory system has to start to work harder. Every degree drop below 16°C is causing more stress on our lungs. Over time, this can lead to an exacerbation of respiratory impacts associated with Bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, asthma, COPD and other illnesses.
“At 12°C degrees our lungs and body have to work even harder to keep our internal temperature at 37°C. Have you ever wondered why so many heart attacks occur in the early hours of the morning? Cold temperatures can play a part.”
Nik explained there are lots of things that can be done to improve our homes.
“The challenge of improving a home to achieve 20°C is complex and often there are many unresolved issues, but we don't give up easily. We acknowledge that the 20°C goal is a journey where we need to work with the whānau/family over a period of time to tick off the issues one by one.
“Draught-proofing, lining curtains, secondary glazing, insulation, improving heating, ventilation and mould reduction are key areas we work on with whānau.”
Hawke’s Bay Child Healthy Housing Social Worker Amber Hitchcock talked about the importance of our tamariki living well.
“Over 40,000 children are admitted to hospital in New Zealand every year and poor housing conditions is a huge determinant in that.”
The Healthy Homes Initiative is a nationwide programme that works with families, agencies and local partners to provide education and access to interventions which will create warm, dry and healthy homes. For more information and eligibility criteria see:
*This is the in-home temperature recommended by the World Health Organization for homes with vulnerable, unwell, elderly, babies and toddlers.
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