Census forms still need to be completed in Hawke's Bay

There are still households in Hawke's Bay that have not completed their census. Photo/File

Hawke's Bay residents who haven't completed their Census forms are being encouraged to do so or risk facing prosecution.

Each household was supposed to complete the forms online, on Census day (March 6), however there were still some that hadn't and would continue to be followed up with field visits until tomorrow.

Census general manager Denise McGregor said overall Hawke's Bay is tracking well but there are households that still have not taken part.

Because responses were still being collected the number of households in the region that had not yet participated was not available, she said.

"We are unable to release response rates.

"This information will be available later in the year, once all the Census data has been reconciled."

Taking part in the Census is mandatory under the Statistic Act 1975.

"Households who have still not completed their Census forms have been sent three reminder letters and have been visited by our field teams.

"If people refuse to take part after these visits and reminders, then Stats NZ will consider prosecution."

People can continue to send in their Census forms or take part online after April 22 but should do so as soon as possible.

This year's Census on March 6 was held online using an access code sent in the mail but people could also request paper forms.

Census day is held every five years to count the number of people living in New Zealand as well as the number of dwellings.

People were asked to participate in 68 questions about themselves and their household for Stats NZ to get a snapshot of the country.

Data collected can be used to make plans about services such as hospitals, kohanga reo, schools, roads, and public transport.

Topics covered include health, work status, education, relationships, and transport and help add to the overall picture of the state of homes around New Zealand.