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National | Poverty

Iwi could be key to reducing child poverty

Nearly one in three children are living in poverty.

A recent child poverty report shows times are far tougher than they were 30 years ago, but iwi could be the key to success. Children's Commissioner Dr Russell Willis is realistic about what role iwi may choose to play.

In reports third year tracking various measures of child poverty, the numbers paint a bleak picture for many of our most vulnerable families.

The report adds that Māori and Pacific children are also more likely to live in severe poverty than their Pākehā counterparts. Willis says government initiatives, including free doctor visits is helping but it's not enough.

Whether or not iwi can help alleviate some of the factors of poverty remains to be seen but any help may come too late for families now facing hardship in the festive season.

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Poverty