That number increases to one in two, once they reach 80.
In Otago alone, nearly 48,100 people made injury claims after having falls last year, costing the Accident Compensation Corporation and taxpayers $11 million to help them recover.
Nationwide, 172,115 people aged 65 and over made fall-related claims, and all falls cost $1.8billion.
In response, the government agency has launched Nymbl, an app that is designed to help seniors stay steady on their feet by combining simple body movements with easy brain games such as trivia, to challenge the brain and the body.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker was part of ACC’s Live Stronger for Longer programme, which is focused on preventing falls and fractures.
"Falls are the largest ACC claim, making up 39% of all claims.
"They have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, especially if it results in a fracture, so we want to do what we can to prevent them from happening in the first place."
He said ACC also wanted to dispel the idea that falling over was just part of the ageing process.
"Most falls are preventable.
"We want to help New Zealanders to stay on their feet, enjoying their independence and live the life they want to live.
"We’re committed to reducing falls for older people in their homes and community."
Mr Whitaker said research showed falls happened when people were distracted.
Fall-related injuries most commonly occurred in the home, and women were slightly more likely to be injured by falling, than men.
The research also showed 71% of Nymbl users who used the app for 21 days improved their 30-second sit-to-stand balance test, and improved their balance by 30%.
"By investing 10 minutes a day, a few times a week, in the comfort of your own home, you can improve your balance and maintain your independence and confidence," he said.
"By doing the right things, older people in New Zealand can have active, fun lifestyles and be unaffected by falls."
