Myth: “It’s better if rangatahi drink at home with whānau, it’s safer.”
Fact: Even supervised drinking can cause harm. Rangatahi who drink with adults are more likely to binge drink and develop problems later. Manaakitanga means protecting, not exposing - our tamariki and rangatahi.

Myth: “Giving them a little alcohol helps them learn to drink responsibly.”
Fact: Early drinking increases the risk of addiction, depression, and brain damage. The roro (brain) is still growing until around 25. Giving alcohol too early is not teaching, it’s harming.

Myth: “Everyone drinks in high school – it’s just part of growing up.”
Fact: Most rangatahi choose not to drink. Whakaaro nui (good thinking) means knowing that not everyone follows the crowd, and that’s okay.

Myth: “Beer and wine are safer than spirits.”
Fact: All alcohol causes harm. Whether it’s beer, wine, or spirits, it affects the hinengaro (mind) and tinana (body) the same way.

Myth: “Alcohol isn’t as bad as other drugs.”
Fact: Alcohol can damage the brain, increase cancer risk, and lead to violence or injury. It’s one of the most harmful substances for rangatahi. Toitū te tinana, toitū te hinengaro.