Summary and report
This 2014 report reviews the rapidly changing New Zealand population and its implications on our country's social cohesion, economy, education and health.
- Download Our Futures: Te Pae Tawhiti (includes references)
This report brings together data and analysis from the 2013 census and other sources, together with input from a wide range of researchers, to provide evidence-based pointers to the future of New Zealand society. It covers seven key themes: diversity, population change, tangata whenua, migration, households and families, regional variation, and work.
The report's purpose is to promote informed discussion of the implications of the 2013 New Zealand Census for understanding the changing nature of New Zealand society.
The title of the report is inspired by this whakataukī (Māori proverb):
"Ko te pae tata, whakamaua, kia tīnā, Ko te pae tawhiti, whaia, kia tata."
"Secure the horizons that are close to hand and pursue the more distant horizons so that they may become close."
Video highlights
Our Futures panel chair Professor Gary Hawke FRSNZ explains the purpose and process of the report and shares some of the key findings.
Sub-reports:
This discussion paper by Dr Malcolm McKinnon and Professor Gary Hawke FRSNZ investigates the implications of New Zealand’s changing demographics on the nature of citizenship, voting, representation, and the relationship between Government and citizens.
This discussion paper by Emeritus Professor Erik Olssen ONZM, PhD. Duke, FRSNZ, FNZAH looks at the major demographic trends relating to mortality, morbidity, and fertility; the health services; and the determinants of health. It also provides an overview of health services now, current issues, and an assessment of the health system’s performance.