Auckland school children are almost 2kg heavier than they were six years ago

A report released today shows the average weight of Auckland children aged 5 to 14 was 1.8kg heavier in 2017, than in 2011.

The number of obese or overweight children in that age group's jumped from 28 per cent, to 37 per cent.

In contrast, the number of Auckland 4-year-olds who are obese continues to fall - down from 10.4 per cent in 2012 to 8.2 per cent in 2016.

Healthy Auckland Together spokesman Dr Michael Hale says limiting screen time, encouraging physical play and a focus on healthy lunch boxes seem to be keeping pre-schoolers at a more healthy weight.

However, as children age, the influence of parents decreases.

Hale says declining physical activity, long hours spent watching screens and unhealthy foods choices are contributing factors for primary and secondary schools kinds becoming overweight.