Stats NZ has opened consultation on the next census, inviting Hibiscus Coast feedback.

You can share views on how data is collected and what topics are included until 5pm on Friday 19 December.

New Zealand is shifting to a model that uses existing government “admin” data, backed by a new annual census survey and other targeted approaches.

Acting Chief Executive and Government Statistician Mary Craig said the aim is to “better meet the needs of customers and communities through modernising the way official statistics are collected and produced,” and to deliver insights more often in a more sustainable way.

The consultation outlines proposed data collection and content, including possible additions such as new quality-of-life indicators, more detail on dwellings like floor area, age, and coldness, ‘income amount by income source,’ expanded questions on smoking to include vape use, and access to cellphones at an individual level.

Deputy Chief Executive Tia Warbrick said census information supports planning and decision-making across communities, businesses, iwi, non-government organisations, and government, and that Stats NZ expects strong interest.

Warbrick said the approach will evolve, and this consultation helps identify where further development is needed.

Locals can review the changes, consider the proposed content, and complete the online questionnaire to say what matters most to them.

Know something local worth sharing?

Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.