More than 50,000 households across New Zealand will take part in official Stats NZ surveys this year.
Stats NZ data collection specialists are currently visiting households across New Zealand to collect responses for the General Social Survey, the Household Income and Living Survey and the Household Labour Force Survey.
“The information collected from our household surveys provides important insights into life in New Zealand,” says Abby Johnston, General Manager – Statistical Delivery, Social & Environment.
“The data and insights generated from these surveys are used community organisations, researchers, local and central government and businesses to inform services and initiatives that improve the lives of New Zealanders,” says Abby.
Stats NZ is encouraging everyone who receives a survey, to get involved.
“Taking part helps make sure that your community is represented in official data and statistics. It helps make sure New Zealand’s official statistics reflect the experiences, challenges, and aspirations of people and communities across the country,” says Abby.
General Social Survey
The General Social Survey collects information about the wellbeing of people of New Zealand. Respondents will be asked for their views and experiences about topics, including social connectedness, trust in public institutions, and their sense of neighbourhood safety. The survey is usually carried out every two years.
Household Income and Living Survey
The Household Income and Living Survey asks people about their household income and living situations. This year, some respondents will also be asked questions what they owe and what they own (net worth). The survey is carried out annually.
Household Labour Force Survey
The Household Labour Force Survey is used to produce New Zealand’s official measure of employment. The survey results also help to provide an accurate picture of New Zealand’s economy, which is useful for knowing where jobs need to be created and where training and education effort is needed.
“In addition to telling us what life is like for New Zealand households, Stats NZ’s household surveys contribute to other economic indicators and measures. For example, household expenditure data collected through Household Income and Living Survey every three years feeds into the consumers price index, which measures the country’s official inflation rate,” says Abby.
Stats NZ also runs Te Kupenga, which looks at Māori wellbeing, and the Household Disability Survey, which explores the experiences and needs of disabled people.
