This study used 19 focus groups (including Māori, Pacific, Indian, and New Zealand European caregivers) to examine factors contributing to body weight in children. Across all groups, cost of healthy foods was the highest ranked factor. Ease of access to takeaways and lack of food preparation time were similarly ranked. Cultural factors and screen time were identified as inducing sedentary behaviours in children and a lack of time to ensure children exercised was the next ranked factor. Lack of familial, social, and health promotion support, and others’ behaviour and attitudes were identified by participants as negatively impacting what children ate. All groups rejected cultural stereotypes for higher obesity rates. Compared to Māori and New Zealand Europeans, Pacific Island and Indian participants noted loss of culture and extended family support, and not having culturally appropriate nutrition education or social support and services as additional factors.
