Data sources for 2023 Census provides information about the data sources used to produce the 2023 Census dataset nationally and for subnational geographies.
The four downloadable Excel workbooks (zipped) provide the detailed data-sourcing information. These workbooks will be updated to include the final census variables when they are released on 23 October 2024.
Data sources
explains how we produced the 2023 Census dataset. We used data from census form responses and alternative sources to help produce the highest quality data possible about the population living in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We used alternative data sources when we didn’t have a census form response, and when it was appropriate to do so.
To fill gaps in 2023 Census variables we have used the following alternative data sources:
- historical census data (from the 2018 and 2013 Censuses)
- admin data
- deterministic derivation, based on information from other census variables
- statistical imputation.
Parental data has also been used for Māori descent and iwi affiliation.
The graph below shows the relative contributions of the data sources at a national level for key 2023 Census variables about the population.
provides data in Excel.
More information
summarises how we filled in gaps in census attributes when valid information was not provided on 2023 Census forms. We used this approach to help improve data quality.
Enquiries
Adele Quinn
