Those who failed to fill out the 2023 census will not be prosecuted, due to an error by Stats NZ.

The agency says it generally prosecutes up to 60 people for refusing to take part, encouraging others to do the same, or threatening census staff.

Deputy Government Statistician Simon Mason told Mike Hosking that they're following legal advice after realising they hadn't met all the requirements of the Data and Statistics Act.

He says they decided not to prosecute as they didn't feel it was right to try to force prosecutions through the court.

Mason says this decision won't affect the quality of the data.

LISTEN ABOVE

Those who failed to fill out the 2023 census will not be prosecuted, due to an error by Stats NZ. 
The agency says it generally prosecutes up to 60 people for refusing to take part, encouraging others to do the same, or threatening census staff. 
Deputy Government Statistician Simon Mason told Mike Hosking that they're following legal advice after realising they hadn't met all the requirements of the Data and Statistics Act. 
He says they decided not to prosecute as they didn't feel it was right to try to force prosecutions through the court. 
Mason says this decision won't affect the quality of the data. 
LISTEN ABOVE

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Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.

Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show.Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda.The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion,...