Press releases

12/10/09 - Lowering the drinking age bad for New Zealand
Ten years after the country’s drinking age was lowered to 18, 74 percent of New Zealanders think it has had a negative impact on our society, according to a recent Research New Zealand poll. Five percent thought it had had a positive effect and 17 percent felt it had made no difference. Older people and higher income households thought most strongly that lowering the drinking age had negatively affected society.

The poll also asked Kiwis if they agreed with the New Zealand Law Commission’s recent recommendation that there should be a split purchasing age, where 18 year olds can buy alcohol at bars and restaurants but you have to be 20 to get it from shops. Respondents were divided on this suggestion, with half of all respondents in favour and the other half disagreeing. 

However, a substantial 63 percent of people agreed with another of the Commission’s recommendations, that anyone found drunk in a public place should receive an instant fine.

The bill, which passed by a narrow majority in 1999, was the subject of a heated debate with critics such as the New Zealand Medical Association saying it would worsen the poor public health consequences associated with teenage drinking. In 2005, a bill attempting to raise the age back to 20 was defeated by a 72-49 majority.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 18 and over was conducted by telephone between the 8 September and 10 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.4 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the New Zealand population 18 years and over. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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29/09/09 - Flying the Māori flag up for debate
Two out of five Kiwis are happy for the Māori flag to fly beside the New Zealand flag on official occasions and days of national significance, according to a Research New Zealand poll. The poll found 40 percent of New Zealanders supported the inclusion of the chosen Māori flag, 51 percent disagreed and the remainder either didn’t know or had no strong opinion on the matter.

The selection of an official Māori flag to fly on Waitangi Day was debated at 21 hui around the country and the suggestion of flying the flag on days of national significance was also discussed.

The poll found females were more likely to agree that the flag should be flown at 47 percent, compared to 33 percent of males.  Younger people were also more likely to support the flag, for example 51 percent of those aged 18 to 34 agreed compared with 26 percent of those aged 55 plus. Those of Māori or Pacific ethnicity were more likely to agree at 53 percent, compared with 37 percent of those of New Zealand European ethnicity.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 18 and over was conducted by telephone between the 8 September and 10 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.4 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the New Zealand population 18 years and over. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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25/09/09 - Research finds lack of living Kiwi heroes
Finding the next great New Zealand hero has many of us stumped after the death of Sir Edmund Hillary, according to a recent Research New Zealand poll. The poll asked “Who do you believe is the greatest living New Zealander?” and just over a third (36 percent) of respondents were unable to answer the question. Fifteen percent chose Sir Edmund Hillary despite his death in January 2008. Former Prime Minister Helen Clark tops the list of living New Zealand heroes. She was chosen by 9 percent of respondents, followed by former All Black Captain Sir Colin Meads with 5 percent, and triple Olympic gold medallist Sir Peter Snell with 3 percent.

Our current Prime Minister John Key was next, along with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, both polling at 2 percent. The poll shows how beloved Sir Edmund was and that finding a new hero to match him isn’t going to be easy. Helen Clark’s number one selection as our living hero is a step away from New Zealanders’ tendency to name sports people as their heroes.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 18 and over was conducted by telephone between the 8 September and 10 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.4 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the New Zealand population 18 years and over. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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12/09/09 - Poll finds Kiwis not so keen on MMP
A government-initiated referendum was among National’s pre-election promises and this week Mr Key said he would hold the referendum to honour his party’s pledge, but didn’t believe there was a mood for changing the system. Prime Minister John Key may believe New Zealanders are happy with MMP, but only 45 percent of us are keen on our current electoral system and keeping MMP, according to a Research New Zealand poll. The poll found 42 percent of New Zealanders were not in favour of MMP and a further 13 percent were unsure. Younger people (18-24) were more likely to support MMP at 58 percent in comparison to older New Zealanders (38 percent of 55 to 64 year olds, and 42 percent of over 65s).

Research New Zealand polled New Zealanders’ attitudes to MMP both prior to, and following, the 2008 general election. A Research New Zealand poll in August 2008 found 46 percent of those asked favoured MMP, and when the question was asked again in November 2008 the percentage of support had risen to 53 percent.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 18 and over was conducted by telephone between 8 and 10 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.5 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the New Zealand population 18 years and over. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation, but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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25/08/09 - Small businesses believe relief is on the way
Small business owners see light at the end of the recession tunnel, according to the latest Business Confidence Survey from Research New Zealand. The survey questioned 502 small and medium-sized businesses (including farms) in July about their optimism, or otherwise, for their own business and for the economy.

Overall, small business owners were feeling positive about the future although views were mixed about whether the Government had helped them get through the recession.
Fifty-two percent of small business owners thought trading conditions for their own business would get better in the next six months and even more, 73 percent, thought they would get better or much better in the next 12 months.

The survey found small business owners felt the decisions and plans made at February’s Job Summit made little difference to them. Seventy-one percent felt it would have no impact or a small impact on them and 11 percent thought it would have a moderate impact.

When asked whether they thought the Government had taken the right steps to manage the effects of the recession on small businesses, one in three small business owners or managers strongly disagreed or disagreed. However, 47 percent agreed or strongly agreed that the Government had taken the right steps, a further 10 percent didn’t know.

The survey found the recession has had a negative impact on 58 percent of small businesses, but interestingly 20 percent thought it had had a positive effect.  Those who had experienced a positive impact commented that as a result of the recession they had increased investment in their business, boosted staff numbers and increased the amount of overtime worked.

Those who felt the recession has had a negative impact on their business said they had reduced overheads and costs, stopped hiring new staff and reduced investment.
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29/07/09 - Should New Zealand send SAS soldiers to Afghanistan?
The government will shortly make a decision about whether New Zealand should send SAS soldiers back to Afghanistan. A Research New Zealand poll, conducted for ONE News, and released on 28 July, shows that New Zealanders are divided on whether New Zealand SAS soldiers should be sent back to Afghanistan – 47% are in favour and 44% are opposed. Younger people and females in particular are opposed – 57% of those in the age group 18 – 24 years and 57% of females. When it is made clear that SAS soldiers going to Afghanistan may be sent into combat, the figures change only slightly. Of those in favour of them going back to Afghanistan, 13% would change their mind if they were likely to see combat and 84% would not. The government has already extended the tour of duty of the 140 soldiers working on reconstruction projects in Afghanistan by a further year until September 2010. That decision was supported by 61% of those surveyed, with 23% being opposed.

The poll, which was based on a nationally representative sample of n=500 adult New Zealanders, aged 18 years and over was conducted by telephone between 6 and 9 July 2009. The results have been weighted by age and gender to ensure the total sample is representative of the New Zealand adult population. Results based on the total sample are subject to a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 4.5 percent (at the 95 percent confidence level).
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29/06/09 - Referendum a waste of tax dollars say New Zealanders.
Three out of four Kiwis don’t believe the “Anti-Smacking Bill” referendum is a good use of $8.9 million of tax payers’ money given that Prime Minister John Key has said the Government is unlikely to change the law, regardless of the result.
The result is the finding of the latest poll from Research New Zealand. The poll found 77% of Kiwis aged 18 years and over didn’t support spending money on the referendum, while 18% felt it was good use of tax funds, and the remaining 5% were unsure. Of the demographic differences recorded by the poll,only the gender differences were significant, with males being more supportive of the referendum than females (22% of males, compared to 14% of females).

The Research New Zealand poll of 481 people aged 18 and over was conducted by telephone between the 17 June and 19 June. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.8 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the population 18 years and over. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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22/06/09 - Kiwis worried about cuts to superannuation fund and future pension entitlements.

A recent Research New Zealand poll shows that a majority of Kiwis are worried about how future Governments will provide for the retired, according to the latest poll from Research New Zealand. The poll found 72 percent of Kiwis were aware of the Government’s cuts to their contribution to the New Zealand Superannuation Fund, 27 percent were unaware and 2 percent said ‘don’t know’. Of those who were aware of the cuts, almost three quarters (73 percent) were concerned about how future Governments would be able to provide for the retired, 25 percent weren’t concerned and 2 percent didn’t know. Young New Zealanders aged 15-29, who were aware of the changes to the Super Fund, were the least concerned at 46 percent, while 87 percent of 50 to 59 year-olds are concerned about how future governments will provide for retirement.

The Research New Zealand poll of 505 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 4 June and 11 June. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.8 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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18/06/09 - Strong feelings about the use of cell phones when driving Research New Zealand poll shows.

The message is clear, most Kiwis think using a cell phone while driving should be illegal, according to the latest poll from Research New Zealand. 86% of people believe it should be illegal to use a cell phone while driving, and the depth of feeling remains unchanged from the identical poll taken in March 2008.

Seeking clarification, the poll also asked people if they thought using a hands-free cell phone was OK.

51% of respondents felt the law should apply only to hand-held phones, and 32% agreed that using a hands-free phone while driving is acceptable. Although males and females were equally likely to agree that the use of cell phones should be illegal while driving, their opinion differed on whether hands-free phones should also be made illegal. 36% of females, compared to 27% of males felt that the use of all mobile phones in cars should be made illegal.

The Research New Zealand poll of 505 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 4 June and 11 June. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.8 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions
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08/05/09 - Kiwis feeling secure despite rising unemployment.
Despite unemployment rising to its highest level in six years, most Kiwis remain confident in their job security and believe the Government is taking the right steps to manage the recession, Research New Zealand polling shows.

The poll found two thirds (68 percent) of respondents believe the state of the economy is having some impact on their current financial situation and standard of living, and one in six (18 percent) feel it is having a ‘big impact’.

These results are similar to those recorded in February 2009 (71 percent), but significantly lower than in October 2008 (81 percent) and September 2008 (90 percent). Almost one-half of the respondents (44 percent) remain cautiously optimistic that their financial situation will improve in the next 12 months. This is a significant improvement on the result earlier this year, when 32 percent said this.

Two thirds of us (63 percent) agree that the government is taking the right steps to manage the recession, with 15 percent strongly agreeing.

Of those in employment, 79 percent believe their jobs are secure compared with 73 percent in November last year.

The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 24 and 30 April. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the general population. The poll was taken as part of Research New Zealand’s regular surveys of attitudes and opinions
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08/05/09 - Kiwis split on Super City idea
The latest polling by Research New Zealand shows that Kiwis are split on the idea of Auckland becoming a Super City.

Whereas 39 percent of New Zealanders support the idea, almost the same proportion (36 percent) are opposed. The remainder either didn’t know (14 percent) or didn’t care (10 percent). Of those living in Auckland 41 percent support the Super City idea and 45 percent do not, and 1 percent didnøt care one way or the other.

The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 24 and 30 April. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6
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08/05/09 - Half of Kiwis happy with Wanganui spelling.
Just over half of all New Zealanders think that the spelling of Wanganui should stay the way it is, Research New Zealand polling shows.

The latest polling found that, while 28 percent of respondents believed the spelling of Wanganui should be changed to include the ‘h’, 54 percent said it should remain the way it is.  A further 13 percent didn’t care and 5 percent didn’t know.

Support for changing the name to Whanganui was strongest among Maori with 54 percent, compared to 24 percent of those who identified themselves as New Zealand European. “Support for the change was also higher among those who live in the Upper North Island at 33 percent, compared to those in the South Island 22 percent.

The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 24 and 30 April. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 %.
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23/2/09 - Strong support for Government's handling of the recession.
Almost two-thirds of New Zealanders believe the Government is taking the right steps to manage the effects of the recession, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows.

The poll shows that 61 percent of those asked agreed, or strongly agreed, that the Government was taking the right steps to manage the recession. The result shows a high level of support for the Government’s actions to date with only 15 percent of those asked disagreeing, or strongly disagreeing, that the Government is taking the right steps. Some 9 percent neither agreed nor disagreed with what the Government was doing and another 15 percent had no opinion.

The Research New Zealand poll of 502 people aged 15 years and over was conducted by telephone between 5th and 15th February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6%
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23/2/09 - Recession still bites, but not as hard.
While the recession is hurting many New Zealanders, some are beginning to feel that the worst may be over, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. Our February poll shows that 49 percent of New Zealanders believe their financial situation is somewhat worse, or a lot worse, than at the same time a year ago. This had gradually risen to 56% when the same question was asked last year.

This indicates that while the recession is biting for about half of New Zealanders, for others the negative effects of the recession may have peaked for now.

Significantly, 32 percent of New Zealanders interviewed this month said their financial situation had not changed since 12 months ago.

The Research New Zealand poll of 502 people aged 15 years and over was conducted by telephone between 5th and 15th February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6%.
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22/12/08 - Christmas still a religious festival for many Kiwis.
Christmas Day is about more than a big dinner, gift giving and holidays for a sizable group of New Zealanders, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. While the poll found that, for 55 percent of Kiwis, Christmas Day has no religious significance, the day still holds a religious dimension for 45 percent of New Zealanders. The result mirrors a similar poll taken a year ago. This year’s poll found that Kiwis aged 60 and over were more likely to agree that Christmas Day had religious significance for them (63 percent), compared with 31 percent of 15 to 29 year olds.

22/12/08 - Tradition on the menu this Christmas.
We may like to think we have our own very unique New Zealand/South Pacific traditions, but on Christmas Day, few of us will be enjoying a hangi, barbecue or fresh seafood - more likely it’s roast turkey or ham on the menu, according to a Research New Zealand poll. The poll found that, for the year’s most anticipated meal, 25 percent of Kiwis would like to be served roast turkey, 23 percent of us would like ham, 20 percent roast chicken and 14 percent roast lamb. Only 6 percent of us would like to have a barbecue, 2 percent a hangi and 3 percent a vegetarian meal. The poll also showed that 9 percent of Kiwis didn’t have a preference when it came to a meal on Christmas Day and 4 percent were only interested in dessert.

22/12/08 - More Kiwis feeling confident about their financial situation.
Despite the torrent of gloomy financial news, more Kiwis are feeling optimistic about their financial situation than they were earlier this year, Research New Zealand polling shows. The poll taken between 26 November and 3 December 2008 found that 50 percent of New Zealanders expected to be in a somewhat or a lot better financial situation in the next 12 months. The poll also found that 25 percent expected no change, but 23 percent said they expected to be in a lot worse or somewhat worse financial situation in the next 12 months.

When the same question was asked in March 2008, 36 percent of New Zealanders said they expected to be better off in 12 months. In a September poll this figure had risen to 40 percent and in October it had risen again to 48 percent. In March 34 percent of those polled said they expected to be a lot or somewhat worse off compared with 23 percent in December. By far and away the most optimistic group were those aged between 15 and 29, with 38 percent expecting their financial situation to be a lot better, compared with 4 percent of 40 to 49 year olds and 5 percent of those aged 60 or more.

22/12/08 - Kiwis keen on moving summer holidays into February.
If you think the late December summer holiday break just isn’t delivering warm enough weather, you’re not alone.  A large number of Kiwis agree, according to a Research New Zealand poll. The poll found that 44 percent of New Zealanders believe we should move the summer holiday period from December to February, when the weather is warmer, compared to 51 percent, who would like to leave it as it is. Another 5 percent are undecided.

22/12/08 - Kiwis divided over monarchy and Queen's successor.
New Zealanders are divided over whether we should retain the Queen as Head of State, and whether Prince Charles or Prince William should succeed her. The latest Research New Zealand poll has found that 48 percent of New Zealanders did not favour a review of whether the Queen should remain New Zealand’s Head of State. However, a further 42 percent said New Zealand should consider becoming a republic, while 9 percent were unsure. The Research New Zealand polling showed that support for the monarchy was strongest among older people. Support for the monarchy was lowest (38 percent) among those aged 15 to 39 and strongest (61 percent) in those aged 60 or over. Women (52 percent) were also more supportive of retaining the monarchy than men (44 percent).

There were also clear differences between men and women when it came to deciding who should succeed the Queen. Overall, New Zealanders were almost evenly divided on the Queen’s successor with 45 percent preferring her grandson Prince William, and 43 percent preferring her son Prince Charles. However, women were more supportive of Prince William (49 percent) as the next Head of State than Charles (40 percent).  Conversely, men were more likely to choose Prince Charles (50 percent), compared with 37 percent who chose Prince William.

Australia is debating becoming a republic and a referendum on the issue is proposed for 2010.

8/12/08 - New Zealand workers worried about job security and future wage increases.
Nearly one in four New Zealand workers are worried about their jobs and the majority are not expecting a pay rise in the next year, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows.

24 percent of those in paid employment did not believe their job was secure, while 73 percent felt their employment was safe. The poll also showed that households earning less than $40,000, and younger workers were feeling the most insecure. The most bullish group of workers was aged between 30 and 39, with 13 percent that were not confident about their job security, compared with 86 percent who were.

When asked if they were expecting a pay rise in the next 12 months, 58 percent of workers said they were not expecting a pay rise in the next 12 months, with 39 percent expecting more in their pay packets. Lower income households were least likely to expect a pay rise with 67 percent of workers earning less than $40,000 saying they did not expect a pay rise in the next year. Workers aged 30 to 39 were the most confident of a pay rise, with 56 percent of those polled expecting a boost to their pay packets in the next 12 months.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 10 and 13 November. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the population 15 years and over.
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5/12/08 - Support for the MMP electoral system has increased since the election.
Support for the MMP electoral system has increased since last month’s General Election, but there is still significant support for first past the post, Research New Zealand polling shows. A poll taken just days after the November 8 General Election found that 53 percent of New Zealanders favoured MMP (Mixed Member Proportional representation), with 35 percent saying they favoured first past the post. A similar poll taken in August, prior to the election, found 46 percent of those asked favoured MMP and 41 percent first past the post.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 10 and 13 November. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population.
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24/11/08 - Christmas spending likely to be down this year.
Retailers are likely to find that those tills might not be ringing very loudly in December as almost half of us plan to spend less this Christmas and two thirds of us believe our current financial situation is worse or a lot worse than it was 12 months ago. This was the finding of a Research New Zealand poll that asked Kiwis about how a tightening economy, rising prices and a falling real estate market was affecting them.

The poll found 28 percent of New Zealanders felt their current financial situation was worse and a further 11 percent felt it was a lot worse than it was 12 months ago.
When asked about their plans for Christmas, 45 percent of Kiwis said they planned to spend less this year and 46 percent said they would spend about the same. Only 7 percent said they would be spending more than a year ago.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 14 and 22 October. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.5 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of the New Zealand population 15 years and over.
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03/11/08 - What's hotter: the NZ or the US election
New Zealand’s General Election may be in full swing but for a significant number of New Zealanders the more interesting electoral race is happening 10,000km away. The latest Research New Zealand polling shows that 14 percent of New Zealanders said they were more interested in the US presidential race than the New Zealand General Election.

A further 13 percent were as interested in the presidential campaign as the New Zealand election. While 74 percent of those polled were interested in the election at home (61 percent being more interested than in the US presidential race), the drama of the US election has caught the attention of a significant number of New Zealanders (27 percent).

The Research New Zealand poll of a nationwide sample of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 14 and 22 October.
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30/10/08 - Nudity on beaches - new survey of public attitudes
Perhaps we aren’t as prudish as we thought, with almost a third of Kiwis happy for beach-goers to bare it all if they choose to, according to a Research New Zealand poll. The poll found 28 percent of Kiwis thought people should be allowed to be nude on our beaches and that figure rose to 54 percent when including those who thought nudity should only be allowed on designated beaches (26 percent). Against that, 45 percent thought people should not be allowed to be nude on our beaches.

The Research New Zealand poll of a nationwide random sample of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 14 and 22 October.
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28/10/08 - Confidence in the economy continues to fall
The latest poll shows that confidence in the economy has fallen sharply since the last poll in June. However, in the June poll the net confidence in trading conditions was zero showing that respondents were evenly divided in their confidence in the outlook for trading conditions for their own business. In October the net confidence in trading conditions for their own company was a negative 7 percentage points, showing that a majority of businesses now expect trading conditions for their own business to get worse.

The Dominion Post poll, conducted every four months is based on a sample of n=300 Small Business Enterprises (those that employ fewer than 20 people) located in the greater Wellington region (Wellington, Porirua, Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, and Wairarapa). This sample was obtained, at random, from a business directory. The survey was conducted by telephone on the 7th and 8th October 2008.
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16/10/08 - Kiwis are keen on organic food products
A Research New Zealand Poll has found that one third of kiwi grocery shoppers have bought organic produce in the last four weeks. 34 percent had bought organic fruit and vegetables, 14 percent had bought organic dairy products and 11 percent had bought organic meat products.

However, there is considerable price sensitivity. 24 percent of those interviewed, said that organic produce would become too expensive to buy if the price rose by 5 percent. If the price rose by 25 percent, 77 percent of grocery shoppers said it would become too expensive for them to buy. Free range foods showed similar price sensitivity.

The poll was conducted by telephone between 16 and 26 September with a sample of 529 people aged 15 and above. The maximum sampling error is +/- 4.7 percent at the 95% confidence level.
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29/09/08 - Kiwis are loyal buyers of NZ-made products
Kiwis are loyal when it comes to parting with their cash, with nearly two-thirds of us trying to buy New Zealand made, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The poll found that 59 percent of New Zealanders said they made a point of buying New Zealand-made goods and an additional 13 percent said it depended on what the goods were. One in four (28 percent) said they didn’t make a point of buying New Zealand made.

The Research New Zealand poll of 529 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 2 and 11 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6 % (at the 95% confidence level).
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19/09/08 - Have women achieved equal rights with men?
A Research New Zealand poll released today on Women's Suffrage Day, shows that more than 110 years after women achieved the right to vote, almost one in three women believe that they do not have equal rights with men.

Younger women are much more likely to believe that they do have equal rights with men, with 87% of women in the age group 15 - 29 years expressing this sentiment.

The Research New Zealand poll of 529 people aged 15 years and over was conducted by telephone between 2 and 11 September. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.6%.

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26/08/08 - First past the Post the preferred voting method Research New Zealand poll shows.
Nearly half of New Zealanders say they prefer the first past the post electoral system rather than the current MMP system, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The poll found 46 percent of New Zealanders preferred the first past the post voting system, compared with 41 percent who supported the MMP (Mixed Member Proportional representation) system. A further 11 percent didn’t know, and three percent would prefer another system. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 7 August and 14 August.
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25/08/08 - Research New Zealand releases results of poll on trust and confidence in the justice system and attitudes to sentencing
Six out of every 10 Kiwis don’t have full trust and confidence in the New Zealand justice system, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The poll found that 62 percent of Kiwis didn’t have full trust and confidence in the justice system, compared with 36 percent who said they did. The poll also found that Kiwis don’t think we’re tough enough on criminals when it comes to sentencing, with 75 percent of New Zealanders thinking criminal sentences are too soft, 21 percent thinking they are about right and one percent thinking sentences are too tough.

New Zealanders are divided on the question of whether capital punishment should be re-introduced for the worst murder crimes, 48% saying they would support it, and 49% saying that they would not.

The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 7 August and 14 August.
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14/08/08 - Reactions to petrol prices
Kiwis are ditching their cars and taking to their feet as petrol costs see many of us changing our travelling habits, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 15 June and 24 July.
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14/08/08 - Reactions to mandatory eco light bulbs
Kiwis are equally divided about whether they support the Government’s move to make eco light bulbs mandatory from next year, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 15 June and 24 July.
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22/07/08 - All Blacks support grows with on-field action
Good news for Graham Henry and the NZRU; one in three Kiwis say they’re feeling more positive towards the All Blacks, Research New Zealand polling shows. The Research New Zealand poll of 503 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 25 June and 9 July.
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22/07/08 - One in two Kiwis approve of Police carrying guns
Half of New Zealanders think Police should carry guns, with the strongest support coming from males and those aged under 50, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. The polling also shows that more than two fifths of us are more worried about our personal safety than we were a year ago. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 25 June and 9 July.
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22/07/08 - Wind farms looking good poll finds
The majority of New Zealanders have no problem with the look of wind farms though not everyone wants to see them from their home, the latest Research New Zealand polling shows. Of those polled, 84 percent said they had no objection to the way wind farms look, while 13 percent said they were opposed to the look of wind farms. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 25 June and 9 July.
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18/06/08 - Confidence in the economy continues to fall
This poll, based on a representative sample of 300 small and medium size enterprises in the Wellington region shows that although confidence in the economy continues to slide, individual businesses believe themselves to be well insulated from this situation. The survey was conducted by telephone between the 4th and 7th of June.
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17/06/08 - Struggling kiwis want tax cuts on food, petrol
This poll, conducted recently between 3 and 6 June, with a nationally representative sample of New Zealanders, shows that there is a high expectation that tax on basics such as food and petrol is reduced. In the light of rising prices for these types of items and current levels of economic confidence, etc. this is not an unexpected result.
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10/06/08 - Tax cuts a major issue for Kiwi voters
Research New Zealand polling has found that tax cuts are the most important issue for Kiwis as they consider how they are going to cast their vote in this year's general election. The poll was conducted between 14 April and 23 May prior to the budget announcement
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05/06/08 - Kiwis cutting back on heating bills as winter sets in
64% of New Zealanders are cutting back on their heating bill as increased power prices begin to bite and as winter sets in, a Research New Zealand poll has found. The poll was conducted by telephone between 14 and 23 May, with a sample of 500 New Zealanders 15 years and over. It has a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 4.6%.
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26/05/08 - Kiwis ready to consider nuclear power as option
More than one third (36%) of New Zealanders believe nuclear energy should be considered as a viable energy source for New Zealand, a Research New Zealand poll has found. 56% were opposed while 6% were undecided. The poll was conducted by telephone with a sample of 500 persons between 14 and 21 May 2008.
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07/05/08 - Moving to Australia appeals to New Zealanders
The idea of moving to Australia appeals to 38% of New Zealanders. Among the young (15-29 years) the idea appeals to 50%. Job opportunities, the better climate and the lifestyle were given as reasons. The poll of 501 people was conducted by telephone between 14 and 22 April 2008.
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24/04/08 - Strong support for ANZAC Day as national day
ANZAC Day is growing in importance as the day that confirms the national identity and shared past of New Zealanders a Research New Zealand poll shows. This is particularly the case among young New Zealanders. The poll was conducted by telephone on 14 - 22 April and has a sample size of 501.
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10/04/08 - Kiwis look to sports people to be role models
Kiwi's expect professional athletes to set standards both on and off the sports field. A Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over, conducted between 12 and 18 March 2008, showed that 82% of New Zealanders believe professional sportspeople have a responsibility to behave as good role models.
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26/03/08 - 2008 Public Policy Conference
At the Public Policy Conference on 26 March, Research New Zealand Partner Emanuel Kalafatelis spoke about the need for the government to employ consultation processes that encourage a wider group of New Zealanders to participate.
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25/03/08 - Kiwis support ban on Easter Trading.
Recently there has been discussion about whether the ban on trading on Good Friday and Easter Sunday should be relaxed. A Research New Zealand poll shows that there is, in fact, solid support for the ban staying in place. Only 32% support liberalisation of the Easter trading hours, with 64% opposed.
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20/03/08 - Kiwis want mobile phone use banned while driving, with some exceptions.
A recent poll shows that 86 percent of New Zealanders believe it should be illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, with just 13 percent disagreeing that it should be illegal. When respondents who believe mobile phones should be banned were asked about free hands options, 50 percent thought that even their use should be banned while driving, although the other half (49 percent) felt their use was acceptable.
This poll is based on a nationally representative sample of adult New Zealanders, 15 years or more. Interviewing was conducted by telephone between the 12th and 18th of March 2008. Results based on the total sample are subject to a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percent (at the 95 percent confidence level).
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25/02/08 - Confidence in the economy falls again, although optimists still outnumber pessimists in confidence about their own trading conditions.
The Research New Zealand poll of business confidence among SMEs in the Wellington Region, conducted for WHK Sherwin Chan & Walshe in November 2007, shows that while one-third of respondents believe the economy will worsen, most believed their trading conditions will remain relatively stable.
This survey is based on a sample of n=300 Small Business Enterprises (less than 20 employees) in the greater Wellington region (Wellington, Porirua, Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, Kapiti and Wairarapa), selected at random from the telephone directory. The survey was conducted by telephone between the 12th and 14th of February 2008.
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22/02/08 - Economic uncertainty curbs Kiwis’ spending.
More than half of Kiwis plan to tighten their belts this year following reports about the uncertainty of the global economy, Research New Zealand polling shows.
The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 12 and 18 February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.7 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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21/02/08 - Kiwis keen to get fit in 2008.
Expect to see more Kiwis pounding the pavements and lifting weights this year as two thirds of New Zealanders intend to do more exercise in 2008, Research New Zealand polling shows.
The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 12 and 18 February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.7 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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21/02/08 - Extra $20 in pocket important to Kiwis
An extra $20 a week via tax cuts would make a difference for 50% of New Zealanders, Research New Zealand polling shows.
The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 12 and 18 February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.7 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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21/02/08 - Kiwis' interest in rugby waning.
Nearly a third of New Zealanders are suffering from rugby fatigue following the World Cup loss in 2007. The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was completed by telephone between the 12 and 18 February 2008, during the first week of the Super 14.
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20/02/08 - Higher fuel prices keep Kiwis’ cars at home.
Rising fuel prices are forcing nearly a third of Kiwis to drive their car less often, Research New Zealand polling shows.
The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 12 and 18 February. The maximum margin of error is +/- 4.7 % (at the 95% confidence level). The data has been weighted to ensure it is an accurate representation of New Zealand's general population. The poll was not taken on behalf of any organisation but as part of Research New Zealand’s monthly survey of attitudes and opinions.
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20/02/08 - Kiwis remain opposed to "anti-smacking" legislation.
Nine months after the controversial "anti-smacking" legislation was passed three quarters of New Zealanders remain opposed to it. The Research New Zealand poll of 501 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 12 and 18 February 2008.
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19/12/07 - Forget the image of a good old Kiwi barbie on the beach on Christmas Day, Kiwis are more likely to be sitting down to a traditional roast meal on December 25.
The latest Research New Zealand poll asked Kiwis what they'd like to eat for their main Christmas meal and found two-thirds (66%) of us prefer a roast meal (either turkey, chicken or lamb). A further 22% would opt for for ham.
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28/11/07 - Confidence in the economy remains downbeat, although optimists still outnumber pessimists in confidence about their own trading conditions:
The Research New Zealand poll of business confidence among SMEs in the Wellington Region, conducted for Sherwin Chan & Walshe in November 2007, shows that while one-third of respondents believe the economy will worsen, most believed their trading conditions will remain relatively stable.
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26/11/07 - Kiwi sports supporters stay staunch despite losses:
The majority of Kiwis are sticking by national sports teams despite the high profile and painful losses, including losses in the America's Cup, and the Cricket, Netball and Rugby World Cups. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 13 and 19 November 2007.
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26/11/07 - Fireworks ban still polarises the country:
While the majority of New Zealanders favour a ban on the public sale of fireworks, there has been no surge in support of a ban since last year. The Research New Zealand poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 13 and 19 November 2007.
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30/10/07 - More public spending preferred over tax cuts:
A Research New Zealand poll conducted soon after the Government's October 10 announcement of a cash surplus of $2.6 billion for the 2007 financial year, showed more support for spending the Government's surplus on public works or services than on tax cuts. The Research New Zealand poll of 503 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between 18 and 22 October 2007.
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02/10/07 - Independent Research New Zealand poll shows that rising interest rates are a concern for New Zealanders with mortgages:
Research New Zealand polling indicates that rising mortgage interest rates are a concern for 68% of Kiwis with mortgages. The poll of 500 people aged 15 and over was conducted by telephone between the 12th and 20th of September 2007. Of the 500 people interviewed, 206 had mortgages.
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28/08/07 - Confidence in the economy remains downbeat although optimists still outnumber pessimists in confidence about trading conditions:
A Research New Zealand/Sherwin Chan & Walshe business confidence survey of 293 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), conducted between the 14th and 20th August 2007 shows that confidence in the New Zealand economy is still down. Nevertheless, respondents felt that their industry sector would not be significantly affected by the general deterioration in the economy, and that trading conditions would remain relatively stable.
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22/08/07 - Sustainability fails to inspire public:
Sustainability may be the new buzz word in government and business circles, but new research indicates that it has yet to catch on with the wider public. A research New Zealand-Clemenger BBDO poll into attitudes towards sustainability found that only 28% of New Zealanders said they followed the issue closely. The survey also identified a lack of clarity around what sustainability meant.
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07/08/07 - Little support for banning wood fired home heating:
Wood-fired home heating may have been identified as one of the primary causes of air pollution, but New Zealanders are reluctant to see it banned. A Research New Zealand poll has found that more than three-quarters of New Zealanders are opposed to a ban on wood-fired home heating.
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30/07/07 - Strong support for some funding for next America's Cup challenge:
A Research New Zealand poll, taken before Team New Zealand confirmed it would challenge for the next America's Cup, points to a significant level of support for government funding.
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12/07/07 - KiwiSaver could attract a third of eligible New Zealanders:
A Research New Zealand poll, taken between 27 and 30 June, shows that 35% of New Zealanders 15 years and over, have or intend to, join the KiwiSaver scheme in the next 12 months. The poll showed that young people and women were less likely to join the scheme than others, as were those on low incomes. Reasons for not planning to join the scheme were, among others, that the respondent already had a retirement savings plan, or that they couldn’t afford to join the scheme.
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18/06/07 - Limited support for Christianity:
A Research New Zealand poll conducted between June 7 and 9 2007 shows that the majority of New Zealanders are against recognising Christianity as the country's official religion.The poll was taken after Destiny Church Bishop Brian Tamaki called for official recognition of Christianity at a protest outside an international conference on religious tolerance at Waitangi on May 29 2007.
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30/05/07 - Poll reveals what’s on our minds:
While health remains the most important top-of-mind issue for New Zealanders, education is becoming increasingly significant, the latest Research New Zealand poll shows. Education appears to increase as an issue for New Zealanders in line with the debate around educational standards. The poll was conducted by telephone between May 1 and May 5 with a sample of n=499 people 15 years and over and makes comparison with the findings of similar polls conducted in May and December 2006.
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21/05/07 - Confidence in the economy dips sharply although optimists still outnumber pessimists in confidence about trading conditions
The Research New Zealand poll of business confidence among SMEs in the Wellington Region, conducted for Sherwin Chan & Walshe in May 2007, shows that confidence in the New Zealand economy has declined since February 2007. Nevertheless, optimists still outnumber pessimists in confidence about trading conditions for their own firms
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30/04/07 - Bazley Report Findings Damage Police Credibility
One week after the release of the report of the Commission of Inquiry into Police Conduct, we conducted a poll to gauge overall public awareness of the Bazley Report and to ask if those who had heard of the Report believed its findings damaged the credibility of the police?
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27/03/07 - Majority rejects "unenforceable" anti-smacking bill
As you may have heard, the Government has backed down on forcing through anti-smacking legislation. This is in the wake of strong public opinion. Our poll on the proposed legislation, released on National Radio and referred to in the Dominion Post, reflects the public's strong opposition to this legislation.
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05/03/07 - Significant support for capital gains tax on investment properties
There has been some recent media coverage about the viability of a capital gains tax. Our poll on the general public's support for such a tax suggests it would be political suicide to introduce such a tax.
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05/03/07 - Kiwis still rate NZ as a good place to raise children
In February, UNICEF released a fairly damming report for New Zealand in terms of the safety and general well being of children. We were surprised by the result and sought the general public's opinion on this subject. While New Zealanders in general still feel New Zealand is a safe place to bring up children, with just two-thirds giving us the best possible result, we wonder if there is in fact a softening of this view.
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07/02/07 - Majority believes there is more crime in NZ now compared to ten years ago
Two sets of poll results in the same week is, I admit, a bit unusual. However, the results of this poll on violent crime illustrate the important difference between perceptions and facts. As you will see, there is an overwhelming perception that there is significantly more violent crime in New Zealand now, than there was ten years ago. However, this doesn't appear to be supported by the official statistics. The question that we must now ask ourselves is, why is this the case and is this belief of concern?
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02/02/07 - Majority sees no significance in Waitangi Day
One week before Waitangi Day we conducted a poll about the significance of this day for New Zealanders in general.
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