Census team in Northland to help out

A Census team is in Northland to help those who might need a hand to complete the five-yearly head count.

“While we posted or delivered access code letters to 96 per cent of Northland households, we decided to go straight to some of the more isolated communities in the Far North on and around census day and provide access codes and paper forms for people in person,” a spokesman said. “We knew that internet access might be a problem for some whanau, and that it can take a long time for the post to arrive, and we wanted to visit in person and make sure you have what you need.”

The Northland census team was in the area this week to ensure everyone had what they needed, including a mobile unit with tablets, access codes and paper forms. Team members, dressed in purple and yellow and flying a big purple flag, could help anyone.

They will be at Te Hapua Whakawhiti Ora Pai Community Health Centre today and Ahipara tomorrow.

The Stats NZ hub office at 55 Hobson Avenue, Kerikeri, is open Monday to Friday 1pm4pm, and 9am-3pm this Saturday. People should take their access code if they have one, but need not worry if they don’t.

Field teams are also working their way through the Far North, from North Cape to Kawakawa.

“It’s really important that everyone is counted in the census — good decisions are made in, and for, our communities and regions when we know the numbers,” the spokesman added.

“Thanks for your patience, Te Tai Tokerau. Our teams will be with you as soon as possible.”