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Official statistics principles for tier 1 statistics producers

Official statistics principles for Tier 1 statistics producers

Summary of official statistics principles

Governments, businesses, communities and citizens use official statistics on New Zealand’s economy, society and environment to inform debate, research and decision making.

Official statistics are valued for their 

Principle 1: Relevance Official statistics produced by government agencies are relevant to current and prospective user requirements in government and in the wider
community.
Principle 2: Integrity Official statistics gain public trust by being produced and released using objective and transparent methods.
Principle 3: Quality Official statistics are produced using sound statistical methodology, relevant and reliable data sources, and are appropriate for the purpose.
Principle 4: Coherence The value of statistical data is maximised through the use of common frameworks, standards and classifications.
Principle 5: Accessibility Access to official statistics is equal and open.

Official statistics are produced in the interests of all citizens through

Principle 6: Efficiency Official statistics agencies strive to be efficient and provide value for money.
Principle 7: Protecting respondent information Respondents’ rights to privacy and confidentiality are respected and their information is stored securely.
Principle 8: Minimising respondent load The costs of compliance are kept to an acceptable level and data is collected only when the expected benefits of a statistical survey exceed the cost to providers.

Official statistics are enhanced through

Principle 9: Maximising existing sources Maximise the use and value of existing data by integrating or aligning available statistics and administrative sources.
Principle 10: International
participation		 Official statistics agencies make use of and contribute to international statistical developments.
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Official Statistics Programme | Statistics New Zealand

Statistics House, The Boulevard, Harbour Quays, PO Box 2922, Wellington, New Zealand.

Ph: 0508 525 525 Fax:+64 4 931 4079

For other government services go to newzealand.govt.nz