Census returns down

Wellington: About 10% of New Zealanders did not fill out their census forms this year, resulting in the lowest participation nationally for the past five surveys.

Stats NZ’s interim calculations, released this week, show full or partial information for only 90% of individuals was received this year, compared with 94.5% for the 2013 census.

The low participation has caused a delay in the release of information, which was due to be released in October — but will now be available in March 2019.