Help make sure everyone is represented in the census
The census is a count of how many people and dwellings there are in Aotearoa New Zealand. It provides a snapshot of our society.
Census data is important for everyone
The census provides communities, like yours, across Aotearoa New Zealand with vital information for planning and decision-making. As a country it helps us understand who we are and what we need.
Community organisations and groups, councils, government, iwi and hapū and businesses use
census information to make decisions that affect you, your family, and your community. These decisions include where services like hospitals, kōhanga reo, schools, roads, and public transport should be, and where further investment is needed.
We’re changing how we do the census
The way people use data is changing. People wantinformation that is more meaningful, relevant andtimely. To help meet this need, Stats NZ is takinga new approach designed to be more responsive,flexible and sustainable.
From now on census data will be produced bymaking better use of the information already
collected by government (known as administrativeor admin data).
The traditional census survey, which everyone had to complete every five years, will be replaced with a new survey completed by a small percentage of the population every year
Testing the census
Before each census, Stats NZ runs tests to see howkey elements of census operations work. The resultshelp us to design and deliver the best censussurvey possible.
While this census test is voluntary, your participationhelps make future surveys better. You’re one ofthe few people around Aotearoa New Zealand thatget to take part and experience the future of thecensus survey.
Who runs the census test and the census?
Stats NZ is Aotearoa New Zealand’s official data agency. We collect information from people and
organisations to produce and publish data and insights to benefit everyone.
This census test is about making sure the new processes and systems work for everyone as we modernise the census.
How can I complete the survey?
You can complete the census test survey online in English or Te Reo Māori. Or you can call free on 0800 809 464, to complete the survey over the phone or to arrange a time for a Stats NZ survey interviewer to meet with you.
If you are Deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired, the NZ Relay Service can help you make contact by phone. Go to www.nzrelay.co.nz to find out more about this free service.
Alternate formats (New Zealand Sign Language, audio, braille, large print and easy read) are not available for the census test survey.
Surrounding information collateral is available in Audio, Braille, Large Print, Easy Read and New Zealand Sign Language as well as Te Reo Māori, Samoan, Tongan, Simplified Chinese and Filipino. Visit www.stats.govt.nz/census-test/alternate-formats and www.stats.govt.nz/census-test/languages.
How to identify a Stats NZ survey interviewer
Our friendly survey interviewers will always identify themselves as Stats NZ employees, have their Stats NZ photo identification card and be wearing some form of Stats NZ uniform.
You can call 0800 809 464 to confirm the identity of a Stats NZ survey interviewer.
Thank you for completing the census test, you’ve helped make sure your community is represented.
Need help with your survey?
Freephone: 0800 809 464
Email:censustest@stats.govt.nz
