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The countdown has started to the official five-yearly Census, with Census Day set down for March 7.
Deputy government statistician Simon Mason says the overall goal of every census is to produce the best possible count of the population and dwellings in New Zealand at a particular moment in time, along with additional information on the characteristics of individuals, families, extended families, households and dwellings. There will also be questions about education and training, income, work, transport and health.
Mason says the final content for this year’s Census will include a small number of additions and improvements. These changes are designed to improve data quality, as well as allowing collection of a small number of new topics related to sex and gender.
However, he says the emphasis this year will be on participation rates.
“Significant investment has been committed to lifting participation and response rates, with a focus on geographic areas and ethnic groups that had the highest non-response in 2018, particularly Māori, Pacific peoples, and people aged under 29 years,” Mason says.
There will be double the number of census collectors involved this year and Census forms can be completed either online or on paper.
“For the first time, the Census questions will be translated into New Zealand Sign Language. Braille will be available again, and questions in audio format to assist people to take part. Information about the Census will be available in 29 languages, and the call centre is being set up with nine languages.”
Mason says census data is used to make decisions that impact every person and community.
“Iwi, community organisations, councils, businesses and the government all make important decisions about where to fund and locate services and key infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, roads, public transport, parks and recreation facilities using data from the Census.”
During feedback on the content of the Census conducted last year, submitters supported collecting more detailed information on unpaid activities, particularly volunteering; information on multiple modes of travel, new modes, and travel to places other than work or education; and information on e-cigarettes or vaping behaviour.
However, Stats NZ has determined information on these topics is more readily available from other official sources.
