A new research project is hoping to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks by Pasifika youths.

A University of Auckland public health researcher has been given an award of $300,000 to aid his two-year project.

Gerhard Sundborn says the Pasifika population's sugar sweetened drinks consumption is higher than any other ethnic group, which causes a number of health issues.

"Pasifika generally have higher prevalence of diabetes and gout, heart disease and also for young children a higher prevalence of dental care, poor dental health."

He says the Pasifika population's sugar sweetened beverage consumption is higher than any other ethnic group.

"Approximately 48 percent consume four or more sugary sweet beverages per week compared to about 29 percent of the general population."

Mr Sundborn is looking at ways of reducing sugary drink consumption and will study procedures currently in place.

He hopes his research will aid in reducing these figures.