The 2011 Census Content Report outlines my decisions on the content to be included in the 2011 Census of Population and Dwellings. They are based on a comprehensive process of consultation, questionnaire development, testing, and classification development.
Overall, the decisions are consistent with the content strategy for the 2011 Census that was released in May 2008: minimal change, no new topics, and the improvement of data quality with a continuing emphasis on addressing the needs of users for continuity and comparability with previous census outputs. Some changes will also occur as a result of previously scheduled Statistics New Zealand reviews of classifications and/ or standards, including the Final Report of a Review of the Official Ethnicity Statistical Standard 2009.
In determining the content for the 2011 Census, Statistics New Zealand has continued to recognise the central role of the census in the Official Statistics System. Official statistics provide information for government departments, local authorities, and businesses to use in making policy and service-delivery decisions. They also provide measures of New Zealand's economic, social, and environmental situation. The work of the Programme of Official Social Statistics enables Statistics New Zealand to identify those topics that are most appropriate for inclusion in the census, and to assist users in identifying alternative data sources that may meet user needs.
Finally, thank you to everyone who participated in the consultation process. The information provided will help to ensure that the 2011 Census continues to be of great value to New Zealand society, meeting the data quality expectations of users from government, business, community, and academic sectors. The feedback received in the consultation process will also provide a basis for planning and development of the 2016 Census, as Statistics New Zealand looks to the future and responds to the data requirements of a changing society.
I am confident that, with your participation, the 2011 Census will be a success.
Geoff Bascand
Government Statistician