The recent investigation into New Zealand’s 2023 Census engagement with Māori has brought notable findings regarding the processes employed by Stats NZ amid allegations of potential misconduct. The comprehensive report spans an analysis of the methodology, governance structures, and the sensitive handling of data involving Māori communities. It also delves into the legal obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, underscoring the chief statistician’s responsibility to ensure Māori interests are duly recognized in the collection and management of census data.
The report critiques the statutory engagement practices, highlighting the requirement for the statistician to communicate effectively with Māori groups concerning their data interests. It emphasizes the necessity for maintaining both capability and opportunity for dialogue, particularly given the context of initial concerns raised surrounding the engagement strategies employed, specifically those involving organizations like Whānau Ora and Whānau Waipareira.
Despite the thorough examination, the report notably lacks conclusive evidence linking any wrongdoing directly to the organizations in question, particularly concerning the extensive scrutiny following initial allegations. Whistleblower accounts from June 2023 indicated that $100 food vouchers were rewarded to families completing census forms, a strategy detailed as a contractual incentive in the agreement with Whānau Ora Community Alliance (WOCA). The contractual arrangement laid out that these vouchers were intended to encourage participation among whānau, revealing that up to $1 million could have been allocated for such incentives.
The execution of the WOCA contract was swiftly initiated following its approval in late April 2023, with engagement activities commencing on May 1. Reports indicate that by mid-July, engagement outcomes were perceived positively, demonstrating a notable increase in response rates among the Māori descent population in Auckland. This metric was critical in showcasing improved participation strategies, with response rates rising significantly throughout the engagement period.
The report does reference allegations against Manurewa Marae, although it refrains from detailing these claims, instead directing the matter to the Privacy Commissioner for further review. Additional insights from Dr. Rawiri Taonui mention the origins of whistleblower accounts, linking them to former employees with ties to the Destiny Church, yet these details warrant cautious interpretation due to their unverified nature.
Notably, one whistleblower reported their complaint to Stats NZ via an 0800 hotline, yet no documentation of this call could be found, as confirmed by an investigation involving Stats NZ and Spark. This raises questions about complaint management and response protocols within the organization.
As the report aims to outline foundational improvements for future census operations, it has made specific recommendations against the context of outsourcing and data management practices. Recommendations focus on enhancing contract management oversight, ensuring compliance with Te Tiriti obligations, and improving overall governance frameworks. These changes are crucial, particularly in light of the potential tactics identified through the MITRE ATT&CK framework, which may be relevant in the ongoing scrutiny of governmental data collection practices.
While the organizations at the center of this report—Whānau Ora and Whānau Waipareira—declined to comment on the findings, the implications of this report remain extensive, particularly as further investigations by the Public Service Association are anticipated. Stakeholders must remain vigilant in enhancing data privacy and ethical standards as the landscape of data collection becomes increasingly complex, particularly concerning historically marginalized communities. The commitment to refining these practices is not just a matter of compliance but integral to ensuring trust in public data systems.
