The five yearly census of New Zealand’s primary industries is underway and up to 60,000 people are expected to complete the census forms, posted out in July.

The main purpose of the Agricultural Production Census is to provide up-to-date and reliable statistics on agriculture and forestry. That information ultimately benefits farmers and all New Zealanders as the data helps with policy and planning decisions at government, local body and industry levels.

Stats NZ carries out the census, which is fully funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries. Statistics are used to inform trade negotiations on issues such as increased access and lower tariffs; forecast work for the agriculture sector; prepare policy advice, including the potential effects of policies on primary producers; monitor the state of the agriculture sector and its contribution to the New Zealand economy; inform planning and investment decisions by central and local government and the private sector and fulfil duties and commitments to various international organisations of which New Zealand is a member.

Agricultural statistics are used by the farming and industrial sectors, government, researchers, and community groups.

This year everyone involved in agriculture, horticulture or forestry takes part. It’s like doing the population census every five years and completing the information the census collects is so important for New Zealand that those involved in the sector are required by law to complete the census.

Stats NZ carries out a census every five years. In other years a sample of people in certain agricultural sectors are surveyed. The census questionnaire can be completed online or by filling in a paper questionnaire. Instructions are in the information pack sent out in the post.

Stats NZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries keeps the information secure and confidential.