Growing Up in New Zealand enters a new digital era with the launch of HOME via Daylight

Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ), one of Aotearoa’s most significant longitudinal studies, has entered a new phase with the launch of HOME, a digital platform designed to support a more direct connection with the rangatahi and their families who have been part of the study since birth.

Conducted by the University of Auckland, GUiNZ has followed the lives of more than 6,000 families and rangatahi since its launch in 2008, generating insights that have informed national policy decisions, nutritional guidelines, housing standards, and more.

As the study matures, so too does its participant base. Until now, engagement has primarily been coordinated through caregivers, using traditional methods such as phone calls, emails, and in-person or postal surveys. With rangatahi now stepping into a more active role in their participation, the study faced an important question: how to meet a new generation in a way that reflects their expectations, while maintaining the trust and rigour the study is known for.

HOME represents a considered evolution of the participant experience. Designed as a central, digital-first platform, it brings key parts of the GUiNZ experience together in one place, making it easier for rangatahi and caregivers to access information, participate in research activities, and stay connected to the study over time.

Associate Professor Sarah-Jane Paine, Research Director of GUiNZ, says, “As the study enters its sixteenth year, we saw a powerful opportunity to evolve how we connect with our cohort. HOME represents the next chapter: a dedicated digital space designed to grow with our rangatahi and their caregivers, supporting their ongoing involvement in ways that feel clear, direct and relevant. It marks a significant step in ensuring the study continues to reflect the lives and voices of young people in Aotearoa.”

The platform was developed by creative and technology studio Daylight, which has partnered with GUiNZ for over five years. The work builds on a long-standing collaboration focused on participant communications, engagement, and translating complex research into accessible experiences.

Kristen Morris, General Manager of Daylight, says, “Our role has been to work closely alongside the GUiNZ team to support the study as it evolves. HOME brings key elements of participation into one digital space, designed to reflect how young people interact with the world today, while complementing the study’s existing research practices.”

The project involved extensive discovery, user journey mapping, and close collaboration with the GUiNZ team. The focus was on identifying where digital tools could reduce friction, support participation, and create a clearer, more cohesive experience for rangatahi as they take on greater ownership of their involvement.

To mark the launch of HOME, Daylight partnered with Flying Fish, and director Tom Grut to create an emotive launch film. Shot in the real homes and neighbourhoods of GUiNZ participants, the film simply seeks to understand what “home” means to them. These deeply personal perspectives reframe the study’s mission of making Aotearoa a better place to call home in the hearts and minds of these incredible rangatahi.