The Disability Survey is the main way we collect information about the experiences and needs of disabled people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
If you’ve been selected to take part in the 2023 Disability Survey, see information on this page including why we carry out the survey, how we selected you, and how to complete the questionnaire.
Alternate formats for information about the 2023 Disability Survey has downloadable files in Audio, Braille, Easy Read, Large Print, and links to view videos in NZSL.
Purpose of the survey
We use the survey to estimate the number of disabled people in Aotearoa New Zealand. The results of the survey help us understand more about the wellbeing of disabled people, and barriers experienced in different areas of life. Government, community groups, iwi, and businesses use this information to plan better services for the future.
We have selected a sample of people who are currently living in New Zealand that completed the 2023 Census to carry out the 2023 Disability Survey.
Both disabled and non-disabled people of all ages were chosen for this survey, so that we can find out more about the differences that groups of people may experience in their everyday lives.
Taking part in the 2023 Disability Survey
The following information will help those of you who have been selected to take part in the 2023 Disability Survey. Thank you for your participation.
We have team members who are fluent in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and are experienced working with the Deaf community, so let us know if you would like to have an NZSL interview when you contact our team.
Both children and adults are selected for the Disability Survey. Please see the statements below and read the one that best applies to you.
a. I have been selected for the survey and I was 15 years of age or over on Census Day, 7 March 2023
You will receive a letter informing you that you have been selected for the survey and requesting you contact us.
If we don’t hear from you, we will follow up with you either by phone, or by visiting your address, to arrange a time to carry out the survey interview.
If you have been chosen for this survey, you should answer the questions yourself.
Please let us know if you need any help to take part. For example, you may wish to have a communication assistant, or a support person with you.
b. I am the parent/caregiver of a child who has been selected for the survey and who was under 15 years of age on Census Day, 7 March 2023
You will receive a letter saying your child has been selected and asking you to contact us.
If we don’t hear from you, we will follow up either by phone or by visiting your address, to arrange a time to carry out the survey interview. You will need to answer the questions on behalf of the child who has been selected for the survey.
Please let us know if you need any help to take part. For example, you may wish to have a communication assistant or support person with you.
Do I have to take part?
Yes. This information is so important that everyone chosen to take part in Stats NZ surveys must do so. The survey questions which you will be asked are a request under section 23 of the Data and Statistics Act. All questions are mandatory, please be aware that you have a legal obligation to complete the survey by 12 November 2023. It is an offence to fail or refuse to provide the information requested (conviction can lead to a fine of up to $2,000). If you have any questions or concerns, contact us on 0800 77 22 50.
Sample selection
We have selected a sample of people who are currently living in New Zealand that completed the 2023 Census to carry out the 2023 Disability Survey.
Adults and children of all ages were chosen for the sample, which includes people who are:
- disabled
- non-disabled
- from different ethnicities
- living in different parts of New Zealand.
Question topics
The survey interviewer will ask a range of questions about difficulties doing common daily activities (like seeing, hearing, or walking) because of a long-term condition, disability, or health problem.
You will also be asked additional questions about:
- education
- paid employment
- transport
- housing
- health services
- wellbeing.
The questions are different from the ones you completed in the census and are more focused on barriers related to a disability, condition, or health problem you may have.
We use the information to find out more about the number of disabled people in New Zealand, and the differences that groups of people may experience in their lives.
How long it takes to complete the survey
The survey takes around 30 minutes over the phone. It may take longer if the survey interview is completed in person, or if a support person or interpreter is involved.
Your information is confidential
We have high standards for keeping your information private, secure, and confidential. The information we collect is used only by us and trusted researchers to produce statistics and research to benefit Aotearoa New Zealand. We take all reasonable steps to ensure that no information is released or shared that could identify you or your household.
Contact us
For more information or if you have any questions about taking part in the 2023 Disability Survey, please:
- call 0800 77 22 50
- email disability@stats.govt.nz.
Public consultation on content for the 2023 Disability Survey
Since it’s been 10 years since the previous Disability Survey, in 2021 we consulted widely to identify what content should be included in the 2023 Disability Survey.
2023 Disability Survey: Feedback from public consultation October/November 2021 summarises feedback from the 200 plus submissions we received from individuals and organisations.
Household Disability Survey 2023: Final content confirms the final content for the 2023 Disability Survey.
Thank you for your time and participation in the 2023 Disability Survey!
Click here to read more at the original web page at stats.govt.nz