Older Kiwis Play More Online Games Than the Young

Based on the recent Digital New Zealand 2014 report, older Kiwis between 40 and 50 years old were identified as the biggest group of gamers for the past two years.

New Zealanders who are 51 years old and up make up almost one-fifth of the gamer population. The report showed most of these gamers are adults with 75 percent over 18. The average age of a Kiwi gamer is about 33.

The report cited several reasons more older Kiwis became gamers. Over 51 gamers said they play games to challenge themselves and keep their minds active. While the younger gamers said they play games to keep them from getting bored, interact with others and experience thrills.

Dr. Jeff Brand, report author and Bond University professor, said in 2010, video games were targeted towards young children who played games on their personal computers and video game consoles.

He added the results of the latest report showed that the profile of Kiwi gamers have become more like the characteristic of an average Kiwi.

The report also revealed 22 percent of New Zealanders play games on tablet computers from 11 percent in 2011. Those who play games on their smart phones make up 44 percent from 38 percent in 2010.

Majority of Kiwis still use game consoles and personal computers. About 60 percent of households play video games on personal computers while 53 percent prefer playing on consoles.

The popularity of personal computers continues due to the availability of online games. More people in New Zealand use the Internet, according to survey results of Statistics New Zealand.

The statistics agency surveyed Internet service providers and found broadband users in New Zealand used 50 percent more data in June compared to the same month in 2012.

The survey found that 88 percent of Internet users signed up for plans offering data speeds of at least 8 MBps or more. The current number of broadband users with high-speed plans is up from 69 percent from June 2012. Four percent of Kiwi Internet users were on plans with speeds of at least 100 MBps or higher.