New Zealanders belong to clubs

About two thirds of all New Zealanders belong to a club or an organisation. Older people – over 65 – belong to more clubs than younger people. The age group which has the lowest membership of clubs is between 25 and 44 years of age. This is when many people have young children and are busy with family as well as work.

Young people, aged from 15 to 24, usually belong to a sports club. People who are over 65 are more likely to belong to other kinds of clubs rather than sports clubs.

The most popular kind of club is a sports club, followed by a religious organisation. 28% belong to a sports club, and 21% belong to a religious organisation. Only 2% belong to a political party. The average annual amount that people play for their clubs or recreation is $530.

There are many kinds of clubs, ranging from tennis clubs, bridge clubs, book clubs, cultural groups and hobby clubs.

Questions

1. What is the value of belonging to a club?
2. Do you belong to a club? Why or why not?