Source: Statistics New Zealand
Technical feasibility: Measuring population and dwellings using administrative data (2025 update) – report
16 December 2025
This report provides an update on the technical feasibility of using administrative (admin) data, supported by surveys, to measure New Zealand’s population and dwellings. It outlines Stats NZ’s readiness to shift towards an admin data-first approach for the census, and identifies key challenges and development areas as we progress through design and implementation.
In June 2025, following Cabinet endorsement, details were announced about upcoming changes to Aotearoa New Zealand’s census. In future, census data will rely more on information already collected by government and other organisations (known as administrative or admin data).
Surveys will remain important for validating admin data and collecting additional information. Stats NZ will also work closely with iwi Māori and other priority communities to develop tailored approaches that help meet their data needs.
