2006 Census: On-line forms: October 2004 ¡X 13 October 2004
On-line Option for 2006 Census
Statistics New Zealand has awarded the contract to develop an on-line census form to Datacom. This represents a major
milestone in the development of an on-line option for the Census of Population and Dwellings in March 2006. Under the
contract, Datacom will develop, integrate, operate and support the electronic form, which will be in addition to the
traditional paper census forms used in New Zealand for more than 100 years.
Statistics New Zealand researched overseas electronic census experiences and developed a prototype application which
proved the feasibility of using the Internet to collect census data. Datacom will now develop a data collection system
that integrates an on-line option into overall census processes so that however the public choose to complete their
census forms ¡V on-line or on paper ¡V the information is collected and processed efficiently. Government Statistician
Brian Pink said Statistics New Zealand was pleased to be able to offer this choice to New Zealanders. ¡§Initial testing
has shown that around 15 to 20 percent of people may want to take up this option in 2006.¡¨
Mr Pink added that, as well as meeting e-government objectives for delivering services via the Internet and public
expectations for an electronic method to complete their census forms, Statistics New Zealand would also be making
savings in collection and processing costs in the future. "An Internet option for the 2006 Census will position
Statistics New Zealand to take advantage of technology in the 2011 and following censuses," he said. Other major
benefits would include more timely and higher-quality census data. ƒnƒnMedia Release Email: info@stats.govt.nz Toll free
: 0508 525 525 www.stats.govt.nz Auckland Phone: 09 920 9100 Our Information Centres are at: Wellington Phone: 04 931
4600 Christchurch Phone: 03 964 8700
Data security and usability are key requirements for the system¡¦s design. People will access the on-line forms over the
Internet via a secure site using a security e-pin. ¡§The security and confidentiality of information was paramount in
deciding that an on-line option was viable," Mr Pink said.
The new system will be trialled in the final large test of census processes, the Census Dress Rehearsal, which is
conducted in March 2005 in preparation for the census itself in March 2006.
Brian Pink Government Statistician
ENDS