How is New Zealand's European population defined?
A European is a New Zealander who identifies with or feels they belong to one or more European ethnicities. The largest ethnicity among European people is New Zealand European, followed by English, Dutch, Australian, South African, Scottish and Irish.
In New Zealand, ethnicity is self-defined and people can and do belong to more than one ethnic group. European is one of five top level categories currently used in New Zealand to identify ethnicity (European, Māori, Pacific peoples, Asian and Other).
What are European population statistics used for?
Statistics about the European population are used to count, estimate and project the European ethnic group and the dwellings, locations and environments that European people live in.
They are also used to describe the characteristics of the European population (eg age, sex, educational qualifications), and to compare the European ethnic group with the total New Zealand population, and with other ethnic groups.
Resources
Ethnic Groups
Reference report on a wide variety of demographic, social and economic data for ethnic groups in New Zealand from the 2001 Census. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2002.
National European Population Projections
Latest national population projections for people of European ethnicity. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2003.
Subnational European Population Projections
Latest subnational population projections for people of European ethnicity. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2003.
References
Belich J (2002). Paradise Reforged: A History of the New Zealanders from the 1880s to the Year 2000, University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu.
King M (2004). The Penguin History of New Zealand, Penguin Books, Auckland.
King M (2004). Being Pakeha Now: Reflections and Recollections of a White Native, Penguin Books, Auckland.
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