Grandparents and grandchildren in New Zealand: an exploratory study

Abstract

Grandparenthood is an under-explored research area in New Zealand. This exploratory study examined the relationship between 38 grandchildren and 50 grandparents from the same families. Participants were interviewed in schools (grandchildren) or in their homes (grandparents). The questionnaire was semi-structured and it was designed to explore various aspects of the relationships between grandparents and grandchildren on the Kapiti Coast, in the Wellington Region, New Zealand. The grandparents and grandchildren in this study had positive relationships, enjoyed their relationships and appreciated each other's company. They lived close to each other and had a frequent contact. The current sample was self-selected and homogenous since most participants were middle-class NZ European and had a positive relationship with their grandchildren. The results indicate that the issue of grandparenthood is complex and it is contingent upon a wider social context in which grandparent-grandchild relationships are embedded. Grandparenthood in New Zealand requires urgent attention and it is hoped that this study will be built upon to provide some advancements in conceptual, methodological, and theoretical dimensions of this research area.