17 June 2011

Statistics New Zealand is restarting regular surveying of Christchurch businesses and households from tomorrow (Saturday 18 June), aside from the most affected residential areas and businesses.

Acting Chief Executive of Statistics New Zealand and Government Statistician, Mrs Dallas Welch said the organisation had stopped information collection for a period following each of the major earthquakes in September, February, and now 13 June.

"We have done this out of respect for what Cantabrians are going through. When making the decision to restart surveying we’ve balanced this against the need for us to keep collecting and providing statistical information that helps assess the impact of the earthquakes on the region and our country."

Mrs Welch said collectors would not contact businesses and households known to have been severely affected. "There is an obligation to participate in our surveys in order to ensure the results are representative and high quality, but we are taking a sensitive approach in Canterbury given the varying situations of businesses and people. We urge people to participate where they can and we appreciate their time and effort. The information we collect is important to agencies involved in helping Canterbury recover as they help them plan for the future."

Statistics New Zealand puts out statistical releases most days. In the past week releases that cover impacts of the previous earthquakes include local authority financial information and retail sales statistics. Next week releases that will include impacts of earlier earthquakes are International Travel and Migration; Wholesale Trade Survey; Economic Survey of Manufacturing; Balance of Payments and International Investment Position; and Accommodation Survey.

Dallas Welch (Mrs)
Acting Government Statistician
17 June 2011

ENDS

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