Work

A Census of Sun Protective Shading at Outdoor School Pools in Aotearoa/New Zealand

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This national benchmark study evaluates shade provision at outdoor school pools across Aotearoa New Zealand (A/NZ) using aerial imagery and photographs. Findings reveal a lack of shade cover over water and supervision zones in ≈90% of pools, regardless of geographic location or equity funding level. Additionally, half of all pools lack shade over spectator zones, with notable disparities observed between schools receiving higher equity-based funding and more affluent counterparts. Portable shade solutions were more common than permanent installations. These findings found little sun protection infrastructure at school pools throughout A/NZ, suggesting a need for targeted policy interventions and resource allocation to improve sun safety for students and staff.

Source: Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand

DOI: 10.1002/snz2.70020

Authors: Mei‐Ling Blank, Bronwen McNoe

Institution: University of Otago

Language: English

Topic: School Health and Nursing Education

Subfield: Speech and Hearing

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: University of Otago, Lottery Health Research