May 2025: Thousands of people have had their say on the state of public and commercial bathrooms, with results from WSP and the Building Research Association of New Zealand's (BRANZ) 'loo review' now in - and the findings offer strong evidence for change.

More than 3,000 people took part in the survey, part of a WSP study commissioned by BRANZ that also included a literature review and targeted stakeholder consultation. The aim was to assess whether bathrooms in public and commercial buildings - such as libraries, sports centres, museums and eateries - are meeting people's needs.

And, for many, they're not.

One in five respondents said public bathrooms don't meet their needs, a figure that jumps to nearly half for those with a disability.

WSP team leader for human factors and social sciences Leoni McKelvey says the feedback paints a clear picture of what's working - and what isn't.

Obviously a topic that has piqued the public's attention - thousands took part in the 'loo review'. Photo: WSP.

May 2025: Join Motu Fellow Jaimie Monk for a Motu Public Policy Seminar on Wednesday, 28 May 2025, 12.00pm-1.30pm, where Jamie will present findings from her latest report, drawing on data from the Growing Up in New Zealand study to examine children's behavioural development. Her presentation will explore:

• how family income affects children at different stages of development,
• the impact of technology use on New Zealand children's behavioural development,
• the role of housing in shaping developmental outcomes.

The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion and audience questions. The panel will be chaired by Motu Senior Fellow Arthur Grimes, and feature:

• Dr Jin Russell, Clinical Chief Advisor: Child and Youth, Manatū Hauora - Ministry of Health
• Hannah Kerr, Director, Child Wellbeing and Poverty Reduction Group, Ministry of Social Development
• Jacqui Southey, Research Director, Save the Children New Zealand

Photo: Getty Images, UnSplash.