TEST THE NATION. SOUTHERN CROSS HEALTH TEST. 2006

Hosted by Simon Dallow and Wendy Petrie, the quiz screened live on TV ONE and as usual featured six groups of studio players as well as eight celebrities.

After testing IQ and general knowledge in previous years, Test the Nation this year quizzed New Zealand about health, with a new component to the test allowing viewers to assess their own heart attack or stroke risk. Participants in the studio spoke frankly about their experiences with various health problems, especially the 'Cardiac Club', all of whom had suffered heart problems in the past.

With the best lifestyle, the Natural Therapists showed their form ahead of the Cardiac Club, Netballers, Rugby Players, Lawn Bowlers, and Gamers.

Raybon Kan took out the health knowledge quiz section while Li Ming Hu was the celebrity with the lowest overall risk.

Southern Cross Group Chief Executive Dr Ian McPherson said, "We hope this test has not only made people aware of their personal risk, but also given them the knowledge to improve it."

While viewers around the country sat the test in front of their televisions, more than 9000 players took the test online. This provided the data used throughout the show and the largest ever snapshot of New Zealanders' health.

From the final results women came out healthier, but only by one point!

Test The Nation - The Southern Cross Health Test was developed by TVNZ researchers in conjunction with Rod Jackson, Professor of Epidemiology and renowned cardiovascular health expert. TVNZ Website 19/09/2006