September 19th, 2024
Census collectors in New Zealand will be finishing their work in communities by 3 May, except in areas most affected by Cyclone Gabrielle, where they will continue until 1 June, according to a media release by Census New Zealand.
As the deadline approaches, residents are being urged to complete their census forms.
Support for census completion
Census collectors have been visiting households since Census Day, providing support to those who need extra help completing their forms. Those who require assistance or need their census forms collected can call the 0800 CENSUS helpline.
Post-Census Day activities
Following Census Day, collectors have made 1.8 million visits to households to ensure everyone is counted in the 2023 Census. Simon Mason, Deputy Government Statistician and Deputy Chief Executive Census and Collections Operations, has highlighted the importance of completing the census, stating that it will enable individuals to have a voice in future decisions that impact them, their families, and their communities.
Final notice for non-completion
Starting from 9 May, people who have not completed their census forms will receive a final notice, which will remind them of the legal requirement to do so, and the risk of a $2,000 fine for non-compliance under the Data and Statistics Act 2022.
Ongoing support events
Census support events will continue to be held, offering face-to-face help for completing census forms until 4 June. The 0800 CENSUS helpline will remain open until June for individuals to order extra paper forms or ask questions about the census.