One in four New Zealand children is getting far less sleep than they need

A new study by a former University of Otago student has found one in four intermediate school-aged kids are getting less than the Government-recommended 9 to 11 hours per night.

Those who used electronics before bed - and set their own bedtimes fared the worst.

Researcher Kate Ford says more emphasis needs to be put on sleep hygiene.

She thinks sleep health information should be included as part of the school curriculum - and parents should provide guidance around bedtimes.