Some principals are encouraging schools to try out starting out their new entrants in groups

Traditionally children in New Zealand start school on their fifth birthday.

But new Education Review Office research shows a group start time is beneficial.

Ninety-four per cent that tried it out are planning to stick with it, and encourage others to give it a go.

ERO's Education Evaluation Centre's head Ruth Shinoda says it allows teachers to have more time to teach.

She says anything that makes life easier is positive, but more importantly three-quarters of schools that took part did it for the children.