Pacific babies are still dying in their beds in high numbers

Since 2002, the death rate for Pacific infants has been higher than the rate for non-Maori, but lower than for Maori.

Research published in the BMC Public Health journal, has found mothers who don't speak English at home were less likely to follow the safe sleep guidelines.

Auckland University research fellow Fiona Langridge says they're not always well translated -- or families don't trust the health system because of their experience, so guidelines aren't reaching them.

She says the study also reinforced research about the importance of socio-economic status, including housing and access to primary healthcare.