Statistics New Zealand aims to ensure that official statistics provide a consistent and coherent picture of New Zealand's economy, society and environment. This allows comparisons to be readily made over time and across geographic areas, industries and other domains. Data produced from different sources and at different times can be brought together to provide a richer dataset for analysis. Data can also be used beyond the initial purpose for which it was produced.
Statistics New Zealand uses three key strategies to facilitate such data integration, both across statistics produced by Statistics New Zealand and with other official statistics:
- The use of conceptual frameworks, such as the System of National Accounts, that provide a basis for consolidating statistical information about certain sectors or dimensions of New Zealand society.
- The use of standard definitions for the subject-matter concepts, variables and classifications used, as well as the populations and statistical units to which they apply.
- The promotion of, and support for, the use of statistical standards and classifications in official statistics produced by other agencies.
Under the Statistics Act 1975, the Government Statistician is required to "define, lay down and promote standard concepts, procedures, definitions and classifications for use in official statistics".
More information
View the classifications and related statistical standards
View the classifications and standards currently being reviewed
View the classifications and standards review process
Latest news
Dwelling occupancy status – A review of the statistical standard for Dwelling Occupancy Status was undertaken to clarify definitions, document current practice and develop guidelines for implementation. The updated version of the standard has been released on the Statistics New Zealand website.
Occupied dwelling type – A review of the statistical standard for Dwelling Type was undertaken to clarify definitions, document current practice and develop guidelines for implementation. The updated version of the standard is now called "Occupied Dwelling type" and has been released on the Statistics New Zealand website.
Harmonised system – An updated version of the New Zealand Harmonised System Classification 2007 has been released with the effective date of 1 January 2010.
ANZSIC implementation news – For the latest information about ANZSIC re-development and implementation dates.
Classification Code Finder (CCF) – CCF is a web-based interactive tool. CCF contains 18 classifications, is useful for quickly coding small volumes of data and for viewing results within the classification hierarchy. Users can search classifications by keyword or code, or can browse the classification hierarchy manually. In addition to the web-based tool, a downloadable version is also available. The downloadable coding tool is suitable for automatic coding and integration with internal systems.
New developments
A new statistical standard for Income bands has been developed and released on the Statistics New Zealand website. This new standard enables greater comparibility of Statistic New Zealand's incomeband statistics accross surveys. The collection and output of income band data is also more consistent.