By small regions (below regional council level) or by region, sex, ethnicity or qualifications?
The Census of Population and Dwellings is the only data source that currently gives regional data below the regional council level and allows for detailed regional and demographic breakdowns. Despite these advantages, there are some disadvantages associated with census data that users should be aware of (both are outlined below).
Advantages of using census data:
- Detailed demographic breakdowns at regional level: The census allows for detailed regional and demographic breakdowns. This is because the census covers the whole of the New Zealand population and is not subject to sampling error. However, detailed outputs are subject to restrictions imposed by Statistics New Zealand's commitment to ensuring the confidentiality of all data released.
- Smaller regional area breakdowns: The census allows for regional breakdowns below the regional council level.
- Household and personal: The census provides a measure of both household income and personal income.
Disadvantages of using census data:
- Income bands not levels: The census measures income in bands only. For this reason the census does not provide a precise or optimal measure of income. Additionally, the highest income band within the census is $100,000 or more annually. As a consequence, the difference between a person or household with an income of $100,000 and an income of $350,000, although substantial, will not be indicated within census income data.
- Five-yearly only: Census data is released only every five years. This means that, depending on the date of its last release, census income data can be somewhat out of date.
Back to Frequently asked questions
|