Labour force

What are labour force counts, estimates and projections?

Labour force counts, estimates and projections provide information about the size and make up of New Zealand's labour force.

The labour force is made up of people aged 15 years and over who are either in employment (part-time or full-time) or are unemployed and actively seeking employment. People who are employed make up the workforce. People who are not employed and not actively seeking work are referred to as non-labour force.

What are labour force counts, estimates and projections used for?

Labour force information is used for a wide range of economic and social analysis. Many measures of New Zealand's economic performance and social wellbeing depend on these statistics.

Resources

Labour Market Statistics
Statistics New Zealand's main reference publication of labour market related statistics (1997 to 2003). Published 2003.

Labour force projections
Latest labour force projections. A measure of the potential labour force supply within New Zealand between 2001(base) and 2051 including participation rates, based on various demographic changes. Published by Statistics New Zealand.

Work
Reference report on the work force from the 2001 Census of Population and Dwellings. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2003.

Employment and Unemployment
Reference report on labour force from the 1996 Census of Population and Dwellings. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 1998.

References

Houston D (2004). Work-life Balance in the 21st Century, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke.

Experts

For further information email the Demography Division of Statistics New Zealand or write to:

Robert Didham
Demography Division
Statistics New Zealand
Dollan House
401 Madras Street
Private Bag 4741
Christchurch