OIA0862 and OIA0872 Material Collated JAMES Redacted.pdf

From:
Census Communications - Shared Mailbox
To:
Brendan Anstiss; Kate Satterthwaite;s 9(2)(a)
; Emmett Geoghegan; s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Alisha Kennedy; Rachael Milicich
Subject:
FW: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 1:16:05 pm
Importance:
High
Kia ora kōrua

We have a very urgent and serious media enquiry related to our contract with Whanau Ora for the
2023 Census, with a deadline of 4.30pm.
1982

s 9(2)(a) /Emmett could you please look at the questions as some relate to our processes and legal
requirements of collecting census responses.
Act

Working on a response for this. Kate – assume you will want to be sign out of this response.

Thank you
s 9(2)(a)

- what is the established process for physical census forms handled by staff from
outside organisations (such as maraes)? Is it illegal to copy and retain that
confidential information? Who was checking these processes were adhered to?
Information
- can inducements be offered for completion? Was Statistics NZ aware this was
happening?
- did Statistics NZ know marae clients were being encouraged to complete the
enrolment form at the same time?
- the allegation that census information was used for election campaigning
purposes is very serious. Will Statistics NZ investigate?
Official

the

From: Andrea Vance <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 11:28 AM
To: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
under
Subject: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Good morning,

I have the following questions relating to Manurewa Marae. I appreciate this is a
busy day for you, but these are serious allegations and we require a response by
4.30pm Thursday.
Released

We have spoken to a number of former marae staff who have made the following
allegations relating to the Census and the General Election.

They are:

- that inducements ($100 supermarket vouchers, wellness and hygiene packs, and
food parcels) were given to encourage people to complete the 2023 Census. Staff
were also paid according to how many forms were completed, in some cases
thousands of dollars.
- that alongside those inducements and in the process of the Census forms being
completed, Māori were also encouraged to complete an enrolment form to switch
from the Māori to General roll in the Tāmaki Makaurau electorate
- that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms - were
photocopied and retained by the Marae, and also passed to the Waipareira Trust
1982
through Jotforms. It is alleged this information was later used in the election
campaign run by Te Pati Maori's Takutai Tarsh Kemp, who was also the marae's CEO.

Act
An employee of MSD, seconded to the marae, attempted to raise concerns about the
retention of confidential census information with Statistics NZ, during the collection period,
by ringing the 0800 number. Although she spoke to a staff member, no-one ever called
back to seek further information. She also attempted to raise concerns through her MSD
line manager.
She has now made a disclosure of serious wrongdoing through the protected disclosure
legislation. A number of former staff have also now raised a complaint with police.
I am aware that some of these staff have raised employment grievances with the marae.
Information

I am seeking Statistics response to the above, and also the following questions:

- what is the established process for physical census forms handled by staff from
outside organisations (such as maraes)? Is it illegal to copy and retain that
Official
confidential information? Who was checking these processes were adhered to?
- can inducements be offered for completion? Was Statistics NZ aware this was
happening?
the
- did Statistics NZ know marae clients were being encouraged to complete the
enrolment form at the same time?
- the allegation that census information was used for election campaigning
purposes is very serious. Will Statistics NZ investigate?

under
I look forward to your response.

--
ANDREA VANCE
National Affairs Editor, The Post/Sunday Star-Times.

E [email address] |
Released
s 9(2)(a)
T @avancenz

The information contained in this e-mail message and any accompanying files is or may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient,
any use, dissemination, reliance, forwarding, printing or copying of this e-mail or any attached files is unauthorised. This e-mail is subject to
copyright. No part of it should be reproduced, adapted or communicated without the written consent of the copyright owner. If you have
received this e-mail in error please advise the sender immediately by return e-mail or telephone and delete all copies. Stuff does not guarantee
the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this e-mail or attached files. Internet communications are not secure, therefore

Stuff does not accept legal responsibility for the contents of this message or attached files.
This email is from an external sender. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognise the sender and know the content is safe
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

1982
From:
Alisha Kennedy
Act
To:
Census Communications - Shared Mailbox; Brendan Anstiss; Kate Satterthwaite; s 9(2)(a)
; Emmett
Geoghegan; s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Rachael Milicich; Mike Webb
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 1:21:48 pm
Kia ora,

Looks like the deadline is 4.30pm. It would be good to have a response drafted by COB today
because there will be quite a sign off process. We may also need to update the Minister and PSC.
Information

I’m with Kate – yes, she would like to sign out alongside Rachael.

Ngā mihi nui,

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Official
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz
the

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
under
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.



Released

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
Kate Satterthwaite; Mike Webb
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 1:26:00 pm
Thanks Kate – census team are convening

From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 1:20 PM
To: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Mike Webb
1982
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: FW: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Importance: High
Act

FYI below – may have to give Min and PSC a heads up, depending on response
From: Census Communications - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 1:16 PM
To: Brendan Anstiss <s 9(2)(a)
>; Kate Satterthwaite
<s 9(2)(a)
>; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
>;
Emmett Geoghegan <s 9(2)(a)
>; s 9(2)(a)
<s 9(2)(a)
>
Information
Cc: Alisha Kennedy <s 9(2)(a)
>; Rachael Milicich
<s 9(2)(a)
>
Subject: FW: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Importance: High

Official
Kia ora kōrua

We have a very urgent and serious media enquiry related to our contract with Whanau Ora for the
the
2023 Census, with a deadline of 4.30pm.

s 9(2)(a) /Emmett could you please look at the questions as some relate to our processes and legal
requirements of collecting census responses.

under
Working on a response for this. Kate – assume you will want to be sign out of this response.

Thank you
s 9(2)(a)

- what is the established process for physical census forms handled by staff from
outside organisations (such as maraes)? Is it illegal to copy and retain that
Released
confidential information? Who was checking these processes were adhered to?
- can inducements be offered for completion? Was Statistics NZ aware this was
happening?
- did Statistics NZ know marae clients were being encouraged to complete the
enrolment form at the same time?
- the allegation that census information was used for election campaigning

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
Kate Satterthwaite
Cc:
Alisha Kennedy; Brendan Anstiss; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 1:43:39 pm
Kia ora Kate (and s 9(2)(a)),

s 9(2)(a) and I have given Brendan the heads up and he may be in touch.

As per your conversation with s 9(2)(a), our Whanau Ora relationship holder is s 9(2)(a)
and
1982
she needs to be bought into this. I have given her the heads up but have not spoken to her.

I suggest you bring her into this conversation.
Act

s 9(2)(a)

From: Alisha Kennedy <s 9(2)(a)
>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 1:22 PM
To: Census Communications - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>; Brendan
Anstiss s 9(2)(a)
; Kate Satterthwaite
s 9(2)(a)
;s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
;
Information
Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Rachael Milicich s 9(2)(a)
; Mike Webb s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Kia ora,
Official

Looks like the deadline is 4.30pm. It would be good to have a response drafted by COB today
the
because there will be quite a sign off process. We may also need to update the Minister and PSC.

I’m with Kate – yes, she would like to sign out alongside Rachael.

Ngā mihi nui, under

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Released
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From:
Ruth Laugesen
To:
Alisha Kennedy; Media (MSD)
Cc:
s 9(2)(a)
; Media - Shared Mailbox
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 3:52:57 pm
IN-CONFIDENCE
hi there Alisha; thanks we have received a related query.
I don’t think it’s correct to say an employee of MSD and her line manager are implicated.
The allegations in relation to the census seem to relate to marae staff?
1982
will give you a ring.

Ruth Laugesen - Manager, Media and Social Media
Act
s 9(2)(a)
|s 9(2)(a) |s 9(2)(a)
Ministry of Social Development, Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora
Aurora Centre, 56-66 The Terrace, PO Box 1556, Wellington 6140

From: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 3:45 PM
To: Media (MSD) <[email address]>
Cc: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Media - Shared Mailbox
Information
<[email address]>
Subject: FW: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Importance: High

Kia ora Ruth,
Official

We have received the following media enquiry from Andrea Vance which makes some very
serious allegations. An employee of MSD and her line manager are also implicated.
the

Wondering if you have had anything of a similar nature? Perhaps you could give me a call to
discuss – s 9(2)(a)

Ngā mihi nui, under

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Released
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the

media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From: Andrea Vance <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 11:28 AM
To: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Subject: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Good morning,

1982
I have the following questions relating to Manurewa Marae. I appreciate this is a
busy day for you, but these are serious allegations and we require a response by
4.30pm Thursday.
Act

We have spoken to a number of former marae staff who have made the following
allegations relating to the Census and the General Election.

They are:

- that inducements ($100 supermarket vouchers, wellness and hygiene packs, and
food parcels) were given to encourage people to complete the 2023 Census. Staff
were also paid according to how many forms were completed, in some cases
Information
thousands of dollars.
- that alongside those inducements and in the process of the Census forms being
completed, Māori were also encouraged to complete an enrolment form to switch
from the Māori to General roll in the Tāmaki Makaurau electorate
- that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms - were
photocopied and retained by the Marae, and also passed to the Waipareira Trust
Official
through Jotforms. It is alleged this information was later used in the election
campaign run by Te Pati Maori's Takutai Tarsh Kemp, who was also the marae's CEO.
the

An employee of MSD, seconded to the marae, attempted to raise concerns about the
retention of confidential census information with Statistics NZ, during the collection period,
by ringing the 0800 number. Although she spoke to a staff member, no-one ever called
under
back to seek further information. She also attempted to raise concerns through her MSD
line manager.
She has now made a disclosure of serious wrongdoing through the protected disclosure
legislation. A number of former staff have also now raised a complaint with police.
I am aware that some of these staff have raised employment grievances with the marae.

I am seeking Statistics response to the above, and also the following questions:
Released

- what is the established process for physical census forms handled by staff from
outside organisations (such as maraes)? Is it illegal to copy and retain that
confidential information? Who was checking these processes were adhered to?
- can inducements be offered for completion? Was Statistics NZ aware this was
happening?

- did Statistics NZ know marae clients were being encouraged to complete the
enrolment form at the same time?
- the allegation that census information was used for election campaigning
purposes is very serious. Will Statistics NZ investigate?

I look forward to your response.

--
ANDREA VANCE
1982
National Affairs Editor, The Post/Sunday Star-Times.

E [email address] | s 9(2)(a)
Act
T @avancenz

The information contained in this e-mail message and any accompanying files is or may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient,
any use, dissemination, reliance, forwarding, printing or copying of this e-mail or any attached files is unauthorised. This e-mail is subject to
copyright. No part of it should be reproduced, adapted or communicated without the written consent of the copyright owner. If you have
received this e-mail in error please advise the sender immediately by return e-mail or telephone and delete all copies. Stuff does not guarantee
the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this e-mail or attached files. Internet communications are not secure, therefore
Stuff does not accept legal responsibility for the contents of this message or attached files.
This email is from an external sender. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognise the sender and know the content is safe
This email and any attachments may contain information that is confidential and subject to
Information
legal privilege. If you are not the intended recipient, any use, dissemination, distribution or
duplication of this email and attachments is prohibited. If you have received this email in
error please notify the author immediately and erase all copies of the email and
attachments. The Ministry of Social Development accepts no responsibility for changes
made to this message or attachments after transmission from the Ministry.
This email is from an external sender. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
Official
recognise the sender and know the content is safe
the
under
Released

1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
s 9(2)(a) ; s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Emmett Geoghegan
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection - 0800 number call
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 6:09:01 pm
Thanks s 9(2)(a) appreciate the update
From: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 5:08 PM
To: s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
; Emmett Geoghegan
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection -
0800 number call
Kia ora tīma,
Update on the 0800 number and complaint tracking. Not great news:
Our SNZ 0508’s business process for getting Census calls at the time were just to record
the details of the person and send them straight on to Census. There is no detail in their
system to search on that would be of use
The complaint notes it was through the 0800 number which we assume is the Census one.
This was an external provider and our contact here has gone home for the day. I’ll follow up
with her tomorrow. Regardless, our info centre noted that this data will mostlikely be lost
to us, they did not have any access.
Will update you in the morning.
s 9(2)(a)
From: s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 4:44 PM
To: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
under the Official Information Act 1982
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
; Emmett Geoghegan
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Hiya s 9(2)(a)
Released
Kate has asked that once you’ve tracked down any info on the complaint side of this to send it
through to me please. I am collating and working through the legal & privacy docs so will pull it
together with all of that.
Kia ora

s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

The email may contain information which is legally privileged.

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
1982
I only work Tuesday - Friday

Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
Brendan Anstiss
Cc:
Anna McDowell; Tia Warbrick; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: For Approval - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/
census collection
Date:
Wednesday, 29 May 2024 6:07:04 pm
Fabulous, thank you. Hope today went well!

From: Brendan Anstiss s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 6:01 PM
1982
To: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Anna McDowell s 9(2)(a)
; Tia Warbrick
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Act
Subject: RE: For Approval - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations relating
to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Yes sure. I’ll make contact with s 9(2)(a), and close loop back to this group.

From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 5:59 PM
To: Brendan Anstiss s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Anna McDowell
Information
s 9(2)(a)
; Tia Warbrick
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: For Approval - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations relating to
Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Hi Brendan, with Anna on leave until Wednesday, are you please able to reach out to Whanau Ora
Official
tomorrow and let them know of the request and our response, for their visibility only.

Reach out as needed, thanks Kate
the

From: Kate Satterthwaite
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 5:19 PM
To: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
; Brendan Anstiss
under
s 9(2)(a)
; Rachael Milicich s 9(2)(a)
; Anna
McDowell s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Census Communications - Shared Mailbox
<[email address]>; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Tia Warbrick s 9(2)(a)
; Media - Shared
Mailbox <[email address]>; s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
Subject: For Approval - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations relating to
Released
Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Thanks Alisha – appreciate you pulling this together – and thank you for your time today s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a) and Legal.

1982
Act
I’m comfortable with the statement (below) – @Brendan Anstiss and @Rachael Milicich please
review and let us know. It won’t be attributed to a spokesperson.

Information
I’ll update the Acting CE and provide a ‘no surprises’ heads up to the Minister’s office and PSC
once the statement is approved tomorrow.

@Anna – we’ll aim to send the statement after you’ve engaged with Whanau Ora, so please
confirm and happy to discuss.

Official
Ideally, we’ll send the statement around midday tomorrow. Ahead of the deadline.

the
Reach out as needed, Kate

p.s. Great work on the 2023 Census release today, sorry for this poor timing!

under



Released

1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

From: Brendan Anstiss
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 11:59 AM
To: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
; Alisha Kennedy
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Updated statement - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations
relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
1982

Kia ora kōrua, as discussed, I contacted s 9(2)(a)
by phone and advised him of the
media inquiry and that how we would be responding.  Te Whānau o Waipareira / WOCA had
Act
also received similar media inquiry (a number of times via different entities) and would be
refuting the allegations.

I let s 9(2)(a) know we would be back in contact if required in due course. s 9(2)(a) will also let
s 9(2)(a) , and his Chief Executive, John Tamihere, know.

Cheers, B

From:
Information
Brendan Anstiss
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 11:29 AM
To: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
; Rachael Milicich
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Census Communications - Shared Mailbox
Official
<[email address]>; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Tia Warbrick s 9(2)(a)
; Media - Shared
Mailbox <[email address]>; s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
; Anna McDowell
the
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Alisha Kennedy
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Updated statement - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations
relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

under
Kia ora, I’ve left phone messages for both s 9(2)(a) and s 9(2)(a)
asking them to call me
back.  I will let you know once I have talked to one of them – or if I haven’t been able to by mid-
afternoon.

Kate and s 9(2)(a) we’ll pull together a timeline that attaches the key documents as well and
send this through to you.

Released
Thanks. B

From:
Media - Shared Mailbox
To:
[email address]; Media - Shared Mailbox
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 1:01:00 pm
Kia ora Andrea,

Please see below a statement from Stats NZ.

Stats NZ partnered with Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency to lift low 2023 Census response
1982
rates from Māori in Auckland. The collection operations with non-responding and partial
responding Māori households were led by Te Pae Herenga o Tāmaki. As part of this, Whānau Ora
Act
worked with Manurewa Marae. Questions about how staff were paid in this instance should be
directed to Whānau Ora.

Information collected via census forms or any Stats NZ survey is protected by the Data and
Statistics Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020.

The allegations that census forms were copied and retained, that the information was used for
other purposes, and that reports of this nature were not followed up are very serious. We are
investigating. We encourage anyone with concerns of this nature to contact
Information
[email address], or alternatively the Police or the Office of the Privacy
Commissioner.

[Ends]

Ngā mihi nui,
Official

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
the
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
under
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From:
Released
Andrea Vance <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 11:28 AM
To: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Subject: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Good morning,

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
Tele"a Andrews s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
Fyi - Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 1:45:00 pm
FYI below – query and our response. Our CLA has spoken to your CLA Tele’a; we’ve also linked in
with Ruth (MSD media) and the Electoral Commission (they have both confirmed the receipt of
media queries).

We’ve spoken to Whanau Ora and they have received a query and will respond.
1982

Just sharing for visibility, I think, at this stage; but feel free to update me if you think otherwise

Act
Thanks Kate

Kate Satterthwaite
Deputy Chief Executive & Chief of Staff
Office of the Chief Executive
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Information
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

From: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 1:01 PM
To: [email address]; Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Official
Subject: RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Kia ora Andrea,
the

Please see below a statement from Stats NZ.

Stats NZ partnered with Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency to lift low 2023 Census response
under
rates from Māori in Auckland. The collection operations with non-responding and partial
responding Māori households were led by Te Pae Herenga o Tāmaki. As part of this, Whānau Ora
worked with Manurewa Marae. Questions about how staff were paid in this instance should be
directed to Whānau Ora.

Information collected via census forms or any Stats NZ survey is protected by the Data and
Statistics Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020.
Released

The allegations that census forms were copied and retained, that the information was used for
other purposes, and that reports of this nature were not followed up are very serious. We are
investigating. We encourage anyone with concerns of this nature to contact
[email address], or alternatively the Police or the Office of the Privacy
Commissioner.

1982
Act

[Ends]

Ngā mihi nui,

Information
Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa Official
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
the
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

under





Released

From:
Emmett Geoghegan
To:
s 9(2)(a) ; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
Fw: Updated statement - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations relating to Manurewa
Marae/ census collection
Date:
Monday, 22 July 2024 3:09:26 pm
1982
Nga mihi

Act
Emmett
Emmett Geoghegan (pronouns: he/him/his)
Chief Legal Advisor | Pou Whakahaere a Ture
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Information
From: s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, 30 May 2024 12:57 pm
To:
Official
Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Updated statement - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations
the
relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Thanks Kate

From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)

under
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 11:55 AM
To: s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Subject: FW: Updated statement - MEDIA: Draft statement for approval re: serious allegations
relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection

Hi s 9(2)(a) – Brendan’s spoken to the Trust – he indicated we’ll likely be back in touch. They
also have received related media, which they’re front.
Released

Brendan’s timeline will come to you to assist the investigation -thank you!

1982
From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Kate Satterthwaite; s 9(2)(a) ; s 9(2)(a)
Act
Cc:
Emmett Geoghegan; Brendan Anstiss
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection - 0800 number call
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 3:01:31 pm
Attachments:
2023 Census operation timeline.docx
Kia oar,

Here is the timeline with links to related documents to support the media query.

2023 Census operation timeline.docx
Information

I’ve attached a copy in case you can’t access the documents as it is in the restricted Census PLT
MS Teams folder.

Cheers
s 9(2)(a)
Official

the

s 9(2)(a)
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)
under

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

Released

1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
s 6(c)
; s 9(2)(a)
Kate Satterthwaite; s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Emmett Geoghegan; Brendan Anstiss
Subject:
RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection - 0800 number call
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 3:58:16 pm
1982
Thanks s 9(2)(a) that’s very useful

From: s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)

Act
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 3:01 PM
To: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Kate Satterthwaite
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; Brendan Anstiss
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection -
0800 number call

Information
Kia oar,

Here is the timeline with links to related documents to support the media query.

2023 Census operation timeline.docx Official

I’ve attached a copy in case you can’t access the documents as it is in the restricted Census PLT
MS Teams folder.
the

Cheers
s 9(2)(a)

under

s 9(2)(a)
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Released
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

From:
Emmett Geoghegan
To:
s 9(2)(a) ; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
Fw: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection - 0800 number call
Date:
Monday, 22 July 2024 3:09:20 pm
Attachments:
2023 Census operation timeline.docx
Nga mihi

Emmett
1982
Emmett Geoghegan (pronouns: he/him/his)
Chief Legal Advisor | Pou Whakahaere a Ture
Act
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

From:
Information
s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, 30 May 2024 3:01 pm
To: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Kate Satterthwaite
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; Brendan Anstiss
Official
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection -
0800 number call
the

Kia oar,

Here is the timeline with links to related documents to support the media query.

under
2023 Census operation timeline.docx

I’ve attached a copy in case you can’t access the documents as it is in the restricted
Census PLT  MS Teams folder.

Cheers
s 9(2)(a)
Released

s 9(2)(a)

From:
Emmett Geoghegan
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
s 9(2)(h)
Date:
Monday, 22 July 2024 3:09:19 pm
Importance:
High
Hi s 9(2)(a)
We have a complaint alleging census forms where copied and info misused (feed into
2 orgs lists of contacts).  It's plausible but essentially anonymous with poor detail.
1982
They are 2nd or 3rd hand allegations via a reporter allegedly from a MSD employee and
Act
perhaps others (it's not clear which info relates to which concerns or who holds the
concerns).
MSD has confirmed they have a similar media query.
The Privacy and Legal team are assessing the paperwork side of things, and we will
FYI the OPC.
Information
Kate S and Rachael M are all over a holding response to the media (Alisha Kennedy
on that).
Nga mihi

Emmett
Official
Emmett Geoghegan (pronouns: he/him/his)
Chief Legal Advisor | Pou Whakahaere a Ture
the
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
under

From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 29 May 2024 8:17 pm
To: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
Released
s 9(2)(a)
; Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
Cc: s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
Subject: s 9(2)(h)

Excellent thanks Emmett - yes to looping in security. Would that be s 9(2)(a)

From: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 7:54:05 PM
To: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
Cc: s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
Subject: s 9(2)(h)

s 9(2)(h)
1982
Act

Information
Official
the

under
Released

s 9(2)(h)

1982
Act
Nga mihi

Emmett
Emmett Geoghegan (pronouns: he/him/his)
Chief Legal Advisor | Pou Whakahaere a Ture
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Information
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Official
From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 29 May 2024 1:44 pm
To: Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
the
Cc: s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
Subject: s 9(2)(h)

under

s 9(2)(h)

From: Census Communications - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 1:16 PM
Released
To: Brendan Anstiss s 9(2)(a)
; Kate Satterthwaite
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
;
Emmett Geoghegan s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
; Rachael Milicich

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail
Subject:
No surprises - 2023 Census collections partnership with Whānau Ora (and Manurewa Marae)
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 6:52:44 pm
Importance:
High
Hi s 9(2)(a), for the awareness of your Minister and middle office, under no surprises.

Yesterday Stats NZ received a query from journalist Andrea Vance relating to the 2023 Census
and the General Election – this query is pasted below. A similar query was also received by the
1982
Ministry of Social Development, the Electoral Commission, and the Whānau Ora Commissioning
agency.

Act
Today Stats NZ provided its response back to Ms Vance – also pasted below.

Ms Vance’s query includes allegations that Stats NZ are now actively investigating.

The allegations concern the collection, retention and use of census information collected at
Manurewa Marae as part of our 2023 Census collections partnership with the Whānau Ora
Commissioning agency.

Information
We have made initial contact with the Whānau Ora Commissioning agency, and I can confirm
that we will keep you updated as appropriate, as we investigate these allegations.

If the Minister would like to discuss this, I am available on s 9(2)(a)
. Alternatively, Mark will
be briefed to update the Minister during his scheduled phone call on Tuesday, 4 June 11:30am –
12:00noon.
Official

Kind regards, Kate

the
Stats NZ Statement:

Stats NZ partnered with Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency to lift low 2023 Census
response rates from Māori in Auckland. The collection operations with non-responding
under
and partial responding Māori households were led by Te Pae Herenga o Tāmaki. As part
of this, Whānau Ora worked with Manurewa Marae. Questions about how staff were
paid in this instance should be directed to Whānau Ora.

Information collected via census forms or any Stats NZ survey is protected by the Data
and Statistics Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020.

The allegations that census forms were copied and retained, that the information was
Released
used for other purposes, and that reports of this nature were not followed up are very
serious. We are investigating. We encourage anyone with concerns of this nature to
contact [email address], or alternatively the Police or the Office of the
Privacy Commissioner.

[Ends]

Media query from Andrea Vance:

Good morning,

I have the following questions relating to Manurewa Marae. I appreciate this
is a busy day for you, but these are serious allegations and we require a
response by 4.30pm Thursday.

1982
We have spoken to a number of former marae staff who have made the
following allegations relating to the Census and the General Election.

Act
They are:

- that inducements ($100 supermarket vouchers, wellness and hygiene
packs, and food parcels) were given to encourage people to complete the
2023 Census. Staff were also paid according to how many forms were
completed, in some cases thousands of dollars.
- that alongside those inducements and in the process of the Census forms
being completed, Māori were also encouraged to complete an enrolment
form to switch from the Māori to General roll in the Tāmaki
Information
Makaurau electorate
- that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms -
were photocopied and retained by the Marae, and also passed to
the Waipareira Trust through Jotforms. It is alleged this information was
later used in the election campaign run by Te Pati Maori's Takutai Tarsh Kemp,
who was also the marae's CEO.
Official

An employee of MSD, seconded to the marae, attempted to raise concerns about
the
the retention of confidential census information with Statistics NZ, during the
collection period, by ringing the 0800 number. Although she spoke to a staff
member, no-one ever called back to seek further information. She also attempted
to raise concerns through her MSD line manager.
under
She has now made a disclosure of serious wrongdoing through the protected
disclosure legislation. A number of former staff have also now raised a complaint
with police.
I am aware that some of these staff have raised employment grievances with the
marae.

I am seeking Statistics response to the above, and also the following questions:
Released

- what is the established process for physical census forms handled by staff
from outside organisations (such as maraes)? Is it illegal to copy and retain
that confidential information? Who was checking these processes were
adhered to?

- can inducements be offered for completion? Was Statistics NZ aware this
was happening?
- did Statistics NZ know marae clients were being encouraged to complete
the enrolment form at the same time?
- the allegation that census information was used for election campaigning
purposes is very serious. Will Statistics NZ investigate?

I look forward to your response.

--
1982
ANDREA VANCE
Act
National Affairs Editor, The Post/Sunday Star-Times.

E [email address] | s 9(2)(a)
T @avancenz

Information

Kate Satterthwaite
Deputy Chief Executive & Chief of Staff
Office of the Chief Executive
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)
Official

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
the
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

under

Released

From:
Ruth Laugesen
To:
Alisha Kennedy
Cc:
Media - Shared Mailbox
Subject:
Re: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Date:
Thursday, 30 May 2024 8:17:54 pm
IN-CONFIDENCE
Hi there Alisha - due to the subject matter relating to an alleged protected disclosure and
the very high degree of confidentiality required in the event there was such a disclosure,
we would prefer not to share our response.
1982
However I can say that we haven’t provided the reporter with any comment that relates to
Stats NZ or the census; or that engages with the substance of the claims. We’ve pointed to
general processes that apply in the event any protected disclosures were received by MSD.
Act
Happy to discuss if you would like to chat tomorrow!
Sorry I can’t be more helpful on this occasion.
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 6:14:54 PM
To: Ruth Laugesen s 9(2)(a)
Cc: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Subject: FW: Questions: serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae/ census collection
Information

Kia ora Ruth,

FYI. It would be great if you could share your response with us too.

Official
EC has also received a similar enquiry.

Ngā mihi nui,
the

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
under
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

Released
At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 1:01 PM

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
s 9(2)(a) ; s 9(2)(a)
; Brendan Anstiss; s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Alisha Kennedy; s 9(2)(a)  Emmett Geoghegan
Subject:
RE: Official Information Act Request
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 9:00:00 am
Mōrena koutou

A heads up about an OIA we received on the topic of Manurewa Marae and WOCA yesterday
afternoon.

1982
As far as we know the info has not been reported via media yet.

Could you please start to consider the information we will require to answer this request. Act

Ngā mihi
s 9(2)(a)

From: s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 5:04 PM
To: Office of the GS&CE-External <[email address]>
Information
Subject: Official Information Act Request
Dear Stats NZ,
I am writing to request information under the Official Information Act 1982. Please
provide the following details:
Official
the
1.  Funding Information:
Details of any funding provided to Manurewa Marae and associated
entities for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
under
Details of any funding provided to Waipareira Trust and associated entities
for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
2.  Correspondence:
Released Copies of all correspondence relating to Manurewa Marae concerning
Census 2023.
Copies of all correspondence relating to Waipareira Trust concerning
Census 2023.

3.  Investigation into Data Privacy Breach:
Confirmation of whether any investigation has been undertaken by Stats
NZ into a potential data privacy breach by census collectors associated
with Manurewa Marae and Waipareira Trust. This inquiry is in light of
reports suggesting that Te Pati Maori may have taken a copy of Maori
census data collected for the purposes of their election campaign.
If any investigation has been conducted, please provide details and
1982
findings of the investigation.
Act
4.  Conflict of Interest Management:
Information on the measures and procedures Stats NZ implemented to
manage any potential conflicts of interest, given that Manurewa Marae
served as the campaign headquarters for the Te Pati Maori electoral
candidate, who was also the CEO of the marae.
Information on the measures and procedures Stats NZ implemented to
Information
manage any potential conflicts of interest, given that Waipareira Trust
served as the headquarters for the Te Pati Maori President.

Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your response within the statutory
timeframe.
Official
Best regards,
the
s 9(2)(a)

The content of this email is confidential and intended for the recipient specified in message only.  It is strictly forbidden
under
to share any part of this message with any third party, without a written consent of the sender.  If you received this
message by mistake, please reply to this message and follow with its deletion so that we can ensure such a mistake does
not occur in the future.

Released

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail
Subject:
Under no surprises: Official Information Act Request received
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 9:44:13 am
Mōrena s 9(2)(a)

A heads up about an OIA we received on the topic of Manurewa Marae and Whānau Ora
Commissioning Agency yesterday afternoon.

1982
We are currently assessing the request.

As far as we know the info has not been reported via media yet.
Act

Ngā mihi
s 9(2)(a)

From: s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 5:04 PM
To: Office of the GS&CE-External <[email address]>
Information
Subject: Official Information Act Request
Dear Stats NZ,
I am writing to request information under the Official Information Act 1982. Please
provide the following details:
Official
the
1. Funding Information:
Details of any funding provided to Manurewa Marae and associated
entities for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
under
Details of any funding provided to Waipareira Trust and associated entities
for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
2. Correspondence:
Released Copies of all correspondence relating to Manurewa Marae concerning
Census 2023.
Copies of all correspondence relating to Waipareira Trust concerning
Census 2023.

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
Alisha Kennedy; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 10:52:59 am
Kia ora Alisha.

Just did another search to be sure and looks like this hasn’t made the news.

1982
Ngā mihi nui,
s 9(2)(a)
Act
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | Media Phone +64 021 285 9191

About Aotearoa, For Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Media requests for official information. At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act
seriously. This includes responding to requests for official information via media enquiries. You can read more at
Media enquiries | Stats NZ. The webpage includes reasons why the media team may refuse a request and what to
Information
do if you are not satisfied with our response.

From: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 10:44 AM
To: s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Official
Subject: RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae

the
Thanks. Nothing recent?

Ngā mihi nui,

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
under
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Released
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From: s 9(2)(a) s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 10:29 AM
To: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae
Importance: High

Kia ora.

Nothing recent on either Manurewa Marae or Waipareira Trust in relation to Stats NZ or Census
1982
2023.

These are on Manurewa Marae from November 2023
Act
Te Pāti Māori not under investigation over Manurewa Marae polling booth - NZ Herald
Electoral Commission probes concerns about voting at Te Pāti Māori candidate's marae | RNZ
News
Polling station played Te Pāti Māori waiata on election day | Stuff
Incoming MP Takutai Tarsh Kemp opens up on the attempt to shame Manurewa Marae - NZ
Herald
Electoral Commission polling place decisions under fire amidst recount and voting irregularities
at Manurewa Marae - NZ Herald
Information

These are on Waipareira Trust from early May 2024
Government looks for a better way to count Māori (newsroom.co.nz)
The lack of ambition in new education policy | The Post
February 2024
Official
Waipareira’s controversial campaign loan repaid, executive salaries skyrocket – Te Ao Māori
News (teaonews.co.nz)
August 2023
the
John Tamihere and the Waipareira Trust reach outstanding loan deadline- what happens next?
(newstalkzb.co.nz)
Tamihere not talking on charity watchdog’s third investigation involving Te Pāti Māori – Te Ao
Māori News (teaonews.co.nz)
Election 2023: D-Day for John Tamihere campaign loan; Te Pāti Māori election launch probed -
under
NZ Herald
July 2023
The shouting and the ‘slush fund’: Inside John Tamihere’s donations stoush - NZ Herald

Ngā mihi nui,
s 9(2)(a)
Released
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | Media Phone +64 021 285 9191

About Aotearoa, For Aotearoa

Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Media requests for official information. At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act
seriously. This includes responding to requests for official information via media enquiries. You can read more at
Media enquiries | Stats NZ. The webpage includes reasons why the media team may refuse a request and what to
do if you are not satisfied with our response.

From: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 8:54 AM
To: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; s 9(2)(a)
1982
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae

Act
Not that I have seen. I wonder if the complainant has also gone to them.

s 9(2)(a)– can you do a sweep please!?

Ngā mihi nui,

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive Information
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Official
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
the
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.

From: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 8:34 AM
under
To: Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae

Is there already news about this? (I can’t see it)

From: s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 8:31 AM
To:
Released
Mike Webb s 9(2)(a)
; Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail
<[email address]>; Alisha Kennedy s 9(2)(a)
Subject: RE: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae

Thanks Mike - yep

From: Mike Webb s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 8:13 AM
To: Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail <[email address]>; s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)
; Alisha Kennedy
s 9(2)(a)
Subject: FW: Official Information Act Request: Manurewa Marae

s 9(2)(a)  – Can you please lead on this – acknowledge, log, and share details with those who may
have an interest in this OIA. (I’ve already included Alisha). Thanks!

1982
From: Office of the GS&CE-External <[email address]>
Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 7:39 AM
Act
To: Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail <[email address]>
Subject: FW: Official Information Act Request

From: s 9(2)(a)

Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 5:04 PM
To: Office of the GS&CE-External <[email address]>
Subject: Official Information Act Request
Information
Dear Stats NZ,
I am writing to request information under the Official Information Act 1982. Please
provide the following details:
Official
1.  Funding Information:
Details of any funding provided to Manurewa Marae and associated
entities for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
the
Details of any funding provided to Waipareira Trust and associated entities
for undertaking work related to Census 2023.
2.  Correspondence:
Copies of all correspondence relating to Manurewa Marae concerning
under
Census 2023.
Copies of all correspondence relating to Waipareira Trust concerning
Census 2023.
3.  Investigation into Data Privacy Breach:
Confirmation of whether any investigation has been undertaken by Stats
NZ into a potential data privacy breach by census collectors associated
Released with Manurewa Marae and Waipareira Trust. This inquiry is in light of
reports suggesting that Te Pati Maori may have taken a copy of Maori
census data collected for the purposes of their election campaign.
If any investigation has been conducted, please provide details and
findings of the investigation.

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Alisha Kennedy
Subject:
Fwd: Attn s 9(2)(a) - enquiry on Manurewa Marae
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 1:27:40 pm
Attachments:
RE Questions serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae census collection.msg
image001.png
From: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 1:03 PM
To: Media Enquiries <[email address]>
Cc: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
1982
Subject: RE: Attn s 9(2)(a) - enquiry on Manurewa Marae

Kia ora Clare,

Act
We received a very similar enquiry.
I’ve attached the email and our response.
Please reach out if you want to discuss?

Ngā mihi nui,

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz
Information

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

Official
At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official information via media enquiries.
You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are
unhappy with our response.

the
From: Media Enquiries <[email address]>
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 12:43 PM
To: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
Subject: Attn s 9(2)(a) - enquiry on Manurewa Marae

Kia ora s 9(2)(a) and team
under

I’m the media adviser at the Electoral Commission. As discussed on the phone with s 9(2)(a), I just wanted to give you a
heads up about an enquiry we’ve received from Stuff about Manurewa Marae. I’ve copied the enquiry and draft
response below.

DRAFT RESPONSE
We were not aware of these concerns, and they are not matters that we would look into under the Electoral Act.
Concerns about the use of information collected for the Census are best directed to Stats NZ or the Police.

Released
On the Māori Electoral Option – our public information, including the enrolment form, makes it clear that voters of Māori
descent can choose the general roll or the Māori roll when they enrol to vote. It is an important choice and it is their
choice to make. Once enrolled, Māori voters can change the roll they are on at any time except in the three months
before an election. When people make a change, we send a letter of confirmation, so they can check their details are
correct. People can check or change the roll they are on online at vote.nz.

ENQUIRY FROM s 9(2)(a)
I have the following questions relating to Manurewa Marae. We require a response by 4.30pm Thursday.

We have spoken to a number of former marae staff who have made the following allegations relating to the Census and
the General Election.

They are:

- that inducements ($100 supermarket vouchers, wellness and hygiene packs, and food parcels) were given to
encourage people to complete the 2023 Census. Staff were also paid according to how many forms were completed, in
some cases thousands of dollars.
1982
- that alongside those inducements and in the process of the Census forms being completed, Māori were also
encouraged to complete an enrolment form to switch from the Māori to General roll in the Tāmaki Makaurau electorate.
- that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms - were photocopied and retained by the Marae,
and also passed to the Waipareira Trust through Jotforms. It is alleged this information was later used in the election
Act
campaign run by Te Pati Maori's Takutai Tarsh Kemp, who was also the marae's CEO.
- that community events, to encourage people to complete the census and to register to vote in the general election,
were paid for using Community Connection (MSD) funding.

An employee of MSD, seconded to the marae, attempted to raise concerns about the retention of confidential census
information with Statistics NZ, during the collection period, by ringing the 0800 number. Although she spoke to a staff
member, no-one ever called back to seek further information. She also attempted to raise concerns through her MSD
line manager.
She has now made a disclosure of serious wrongdoing through the protected disclosure legislation. A number of former
staff have also now raised a complaint with police.
Information
I am also aware that some of these staff have raised employment grievances with the marae.

These allegations sit alongside the previous allegations of treating at the marae.

My questions are:
- was the Electoral Commission made aware of any of these allegations?
Official
- will the Commission investigate these claims?

Ngā mihi
the

Clare Pasley

Clare Pasley (she/her) | Senior Media and Communications Advisor | Electoral Commission | Te Kaitiaki Take Kōwhiri |
under
PO Box 3220 | Level 4, 34-42 Manners St, Wellington | Phone s 9(2)(a)
| Mobile s 9(2)(a)
| vote.nz |
elections.nz

Released

This email is from an external sender. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognise the sender and
know the content is safe

From:
Emmett Geoghegan
To:
Kate Satterthwaite
Cc:
Privacy; s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)  s 9(2)(a)
s 9(2)(a)  Alisha Kennedy
Subject:
Note re Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) "notification"
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 2:16:09 pm
Hi Kate,
Currently we (s 9(2)(a) have alerted/FYIed the OPC that we have this complaint and
provided them a summary of it (as it relates to the census forms allegation)
1982
But we have not "notified" the OPC re this complaint using the formal process for
notifiable breaches.
Act
s 9(2)(h)
Information



Official
the
under

Nga mihi
Released
Emmett
Emmett Geoghegan (pronouns: he/him/his)
Chief Legal Advisor | Pou Whakahaere a Ture
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

From:
s 9(2)(a)
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Brendan Anstiss; s 9(2)(a)
Subject:
Contact list
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 4:01:00 pm
Talofa s 9(2)(a)

In anticipation of reviewing the Manurewa Marae/WOCA allegations, could you please pull
together the key contacts, both internal and external.

1982
Ideally we’ll have this ready to go on Tuesday – reach out as you need.

Thanks,
Act
s 9(2)(a)

s 9(2)(a)

Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz | s 9(2)(a)

Information
About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

Official
the
under
Released

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
Sandra Preston; Mark Sowden
Subject:
Quick update - Heads up - 2023 Census collections partnership with Whānau Ora (and Manurewa Marae)
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 5:37:00 pm
Importance:
High
Thanks for your email Sandra – a quick update – we’ve just received a copy of a statement from
the NZ Police (the statement is to s 9(2)(a)) confirming that a complaint with laid with
them this week.

1982
The complaint concerns alleged electoral fraud regarding Census information, Police have
shared with us that they are in the very early stages of assessing the information. I have
updated the Minister’s office and provided holding statements for both Mark and theAct
Minister.  Kind regards, Kate

Attribute to a Police spokesperson:
Police can confirm a complaint was laid this week.
At this time, we are unable to comment further.
ENDS

From: Sandra Preston s 9(2)(a)

Information
Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 4:44 PM
To: Mark Sowden <[email address]>
Cc: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Subject: Fwd: Heads up - 2023 Census collections partnership with Whānau Ora (and Manurewa
Marae)
Official

Hi Mark

the
Kate and I had a good conversation about this this afternoon.  Fantastic that you and your
team are all over it establishing the facts about that has happened, getting an IMT set up,
securing an independent person to investigate, preparing a media plan/reactive lines
(particularly if it goes places over the long weekend) and briefing / providing assurance to
under
your Minister.  Really good to see such swift and appropriate actions on such serious
matters.   Would be keen to connect with you further on this on Tuesday when you return
from leave, including on whether and how we might be able to support you.

Enjoy your leave. Speak next week.

Sandra
Released

Get Outlook for iOS
From: Kate Satterthwaite s 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 7:00 PM

To: Sandra Preston s 9(2)(a)
Subject: Heads up - 2023 Census collections partnership with Whānau Ora (and Manurewa
Marae)

This email was sent from someone outside of Te Kawa Mataaho. Please take
extra care.

1982
Hi Sandra, a heads up to the below no surprises email to our Minister’s office.

Some additional information for you - I have liaised with MSD – who have confirmed a protected
Act
disclosure has not been raised with them by their employee. However, there is a personal
employment matter underway.

Will keep you updated as appropriate, Kate

From: Kate Satterthwaite
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2024 6:53 PM
To: s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Information
Office of the GS&CE-Internal Shared Mail <[email address]>
Subject: No surprises - 2023 Census collections partnership with Whānau Ora (and Manurewa
Marae)
Importance: High

Hi s 9(2)(a) for the awareness of your Minister and middle office, under no surprises.
Official

Yesterday Stats NZ received a query from journalist Andrea Vance relating to the 2023 Census
and the General Election – this query is pasted below. A similar query was also received by the
the
Ministry of Social Development, the Electoral Commission, and the Whānau Ora Commissioning
agency.

Today Stats NZ provided its response back to Ms Vance – also pasted below.
under

Ms Vance’s query includes allegations that Stats NZ are now actively investigating.

The allegations concern the collection, retention and use of census information collected at
Manurewa Marae as part of our 2023 Census collections partnership with the Whānau Ora
Commissioning agency.

Released
We have made initial contact with the Whānau Ora Commissioning agency, and I can confirm
that we will keep you updated as appropriate, as we investigate these allegations.

If the Minister would like to discuss this, I am available on s 9(2)(a)
. Alternatively, Mark will
be briefed to update the Minister during his scheduled phone call on Tuesday, 4 June 11:30am –
12:00noon.

Kind regards, Kate

Stats NZ Statement:

Stats NZ partnered with Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency to lift low 2023 Census
response rates from Māori in Auckland. The collection operations with non-responding
and partial responding Māori households were led by Te Pae Herenga o Tāmaki. As part
of this, Whānau Ora worked with Manurewa Marae. Questions about how staff were
paid in this instance should be directed to Whānau Ora.
1982

Information collected via census forms or any Stats NZ survey is protected by the Data
and Statistics Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020.
Act

The allegations that census forms were copied and retained, that the information was
used for other purposes, and that reports of this nature were not followed up are very
serious. We are investigating. We encourage anyone with concerns of this nature to
contact [email address], or alternatively the Police or the Office of the
Privacy Commissioner.

[Ends]

Information

Media query from Andrea Vance:

Good morning,

Official
I have the following questions relating to Manurewa Marae. I appreciate this
is a busy day for you, but these are serious allegations and we require a
response by 4.30pm Thursday.
the

We have spoken to a number of former marae staff who have made the
following allegations relating to the Census and the General Election.

They are:
under

- that inducements ($100 supermarket vouchers, wellness and hygiene
packs, and food parcels) were given to encourage people to complete the
2023 Census. Staff were also paid according to how many forms were
completed, in some cases thousands of dollars.
- that alongside those inducements and in the process of the Census forms
being completed, Māori were also encouraged to complete an enrolment
form to switch from the Māori to General roll in the Tāmaki
Released
Makaurau electorate
- that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms -
were photocopied and retained by the Marae, and also passed to
the Waipareira Trust through Jotforms. It is alleged this information was
later used in the election campaign run by Te Pati Maori's Takutai Tarsh Kemp,

From:
Kate Satterthwaite
To:
s 9(2)(a)
Cc:
Mike Webb; Alisha Kennedy
Subject:
DRAFT statements: 2023 Census allegations
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 5:33:00 pm
Importance:
High
Hi s 9(2)(a) please see below for a draft holding statement for your Minister – I have also included
Mark’s draft statement for your awareness. These build on the statement already provided to Ms
Vance, and we have confirmed with her that the investigation is being carried out by an external
who will look at the allegations around both inappropriate use of incentives and inappropriate
1982
treatment of the census forms.

Also – an update - the NZ Police have just shared a statement with us (to Ms Vance) confirming
Act
that a complaint with laid with them this week. The complaint concerns alleged electoral fraud
regarding Census information, Police are in the very early stages of assessing the information.

Draft Holding statement – Minister of Statistics

“The Minister is aware of the serious allegations around the inappropriate use of census
forms collected at Manurewa Marae.

Information
The Government Statistician is taking the matter very seriously and has appointed an
independent party to investigate.

It is vital the public’s information is keep private, secure and confidential, and as such
there are high standards and protections in place. The information collected via census
Official
forms is protected by the Data and Statistics Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020.”

the
Draft Holding statement for week of 6 June - Mark Sowden

The following statement can be attributed to Government Statistician and Stats NZ Chief
Executive Mark Sowden.

under
“I take the allegations very seriously and have acted immediately to appoint an
independent external party to investigate.

It is paramount that the information collected via census forms or any Stats NZ survey is
kept private, secure, and confidential, and that it is only used for the purposes in which it
is intended.

The security of this information is so important it is protected by the Data and Statistics
Released
Act 2022 and the Privacy Act 2020. I would encourage anyone with concerns of this
nature to contact me via [email address]. Alternatively, they can contact
the Police or the Office of the Privacy Commissioner.”

Kate Satterthwaite
Deputy Chief Executive & Chief of Staff | Office of the Chief Executive
Kaiwhakahaere Matua Mātāmuri & Kaihautū Kaimah | Tari o te Tumu Whakahaere
Stats NZ | Tatauranga Aotearoa | stats.govt.nz| s 9(2)(a)

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come

1982
Facebook| Twitter| LinkedIn

Act

Information
Official
the
under
Released

From:
Media - Shared Mailbox
To:
Media; Media - Shared Mailbox
Cc:
Kate Satterthwaite
Subject:
RE: FYI - Police statement regarding alleged electoral fraud
Date:
Friday, 31 May 2024 5:26:14 pm
Attachments:
RE Questions serious allegations relating to Manurewa Marae census collection.msg
image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png
Kia ora Anna,
1982

Thank you for your email.
We responded to an enquiry from Andrea yesterday – please see attached.
Act
I have cc’d in Kate Satterwaite, Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief Executive in the Office of the CE
for her visibility of your email too.

Ngā mihi nui,

Alisha Kennedy (pronouns: she/her/hers)
Pouwhakahaere - Ngā Take Whakawaho | Senior Manager – External Affairs
Tai o te Tumu Whakahaere | Office of the Chief Executive
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ | stats.govt.nz
Information

About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa
Data that improves lives today and for generations to come
 
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn
Official

At Stats NZ we take our obligations under the Official Information Act seriously. This includes responding to requests for official
information via media enquiries. You can read more at Media enquiries | Stats NZ on our website. The page includes reasons why the
media team may refuse a request and what to do if you are unhappy with our response.
the

From: Media <[email address]>
Sent: Friday, May 31, 2024 5:00 PM
To: Media - Shared Mailbox <[email address]>
under
Subject: FYI - Police statement regarding alleged electoral fraud

Good evening,

Please see the below brief response going to Andrea Vance at Stuff / Sunday Star Times shortly.

It relates to report made of alleged electoral fraud regarding Census information, Police are in
the very early stages of assessing the information.
Released

Thanks,
Anna

Attribute to a Police spokesperson:
Police can confirm a complaint was laid this week.

At this time, we are unable to comment further.
ENDS.

Police Media Team
Piki Ki Te Ao, Ōtāhuhu
Police National Headquarters, Wellington

AKL +64 09 353 3111
WLG +64 04 238 5111
W www.police.govt.nz
wordmark transparent
1982
Act

===============================================================
WARNING
The information contained in this email message is intended for the addressee only and
may contain privileged information. It may also be subject to the provisions of section 50
of the Policing Act 2008, which creates an offence to have unlawful possession of Police
property. If you are not the intended recipient of this message or have received this
Information
message in error, you must not peruse, use, distribute or copy this message or any of its
contents. Also note, the views expressed in this message may not necessarily reflect those
of the New Zealand Police. If you have received this message in error, please email or
telephone the sender immediately
This email is from an external sender. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognise the sender and know the content is safe
Official
the
under
Released

Privacy and Legal team Situation report  (SITREP) – re WOCA concerns (as they relate to
Privacy concerns and legal advice)
Date of SITREP -  30 May 2024  - 2pm
Current status - Finalised/DRAFT

1982
Portions of this document are subject to Legal Privilege – labelled as “Legal” for ease of identification.

Act
1.0 Situation to date (what has happened)
•  Allegations (via the media) that -
o  that confidential information collected during the Census - the forms - were
photocopied and retained by the Manurewa Marae,
o  That the information was also passed to the Waipareira Trust
o  That the information was later used in the election campaign run by Te Pati Maori's
Takutai Tarsh Kemp, (also CEO of Manurewa Marae).
o
Information
  An employee of MSD, seconded to the marae, attempted to raise concerns about the
retention of confidential census information with Statistics NZ, during the collection
period, by ringing the 0800 number. Although she spoke to a staff member, no-one ever
called back to seek further information.

(Note – other concerns re inducements/incentive and other matters were raised in the media
Official
query.)

the

2.0 Actions to date (what has been done)
s 9(2)(h)     under

Other

•  Initial consideration of legislation completed.
•  Initial Media response drafted
•
Released
  Initial fact-finding meeting held with relevant Census staff
•  Office of the Privacy Commissioner alerted to the complaint
•  MSD contacted (they have parallel media query – and a related employment matter).

•  We have searched for any indication a complaint was made and/or escalated within Stats –
finding no relevant information.
•  Brendan A’s spoken to the Trust – he indicated we’ll likely be back in touch. They also have
received related media, which they’ll front.

3.0 Actions to be completed (what wil  be done)
1982
•  Office of the Privacy Commissioner chat (for afternoon of 30 May).
•  Media response to be finalised and sent.
•
Act
  Brendan A to contact WOCA before media response is sent.
•  Timeline to come from Brendan Anstiss? (Kate S email refers)
4.0 Issue(s) / Interim Findings
s 9(2)(h)

Information



Official

the
Other
•  We have good evidence that the topic of privacy and confidentiality was “front and centre” in
material WOCA used to brief staff and partners. And that operations seemed well planned (e.g.
woca staff visiting dwellings had app to tell them where nearest post box was to post forms)
under
•  We have some evidence that WOCA was educated re how Stats operated community assisted
completion events (ACE) and that importance of care re privacy was emphasized. (Noting that
documents we provided to WOCA were partially incomplete and we do not seem to have
received detailed information in response regarding “how” WOCA would run ACE.)
•  The relevant Privacy impact Assessment was never completed and signed.
•  We do not know how the event in question was run in practice nor the protocols that were set
for it by WOCA.
Released
•  Stats does not have access to call log information from our census contact centre supplier –
meaning we cannot look for evidence that a relevant phone call did or did not occur.

•  There is no indication that the issue was raised/escalated within Stats. And evidence that
escalation would have been likely if any complaint was communicated as being about census
forms being misused.
•  We know (from facebook) that 18 June 2023 is a likely date for at least one event at the marae.
5.0 Assumptions
•  That the complaint relates to a WOCA run event rather than earlier Stats NZ run Assisted
1982
Completion event at the same Marae or to activity the Marae ran independently.

Act

6.0 Information gaps/needs
•  We do not have a great deal of detail regarding the allegations. For example, we do not know
which pages of census forms were allegedly copied (just the front page?).
•  We do not know if a complaint to the Police (or other agencies) has been made.
•  We do not know how the event in question was run in practice nor the protocols that were set
for it by WOCA.
•
Information
  We do not have any feedback from WOCA or the Marae that may shed light on the complaint or
it’s context.
•  Contact centre protocols may illustrate the likelihood of a concern being escalated if it was
clearly raised?
•  Field Methods and Design team received odd queries or concerns that arose or were raised with
census? Do they have a relevant log of queries? (Have asked s 9(2)(a)
Official
•  Did we have any difficulties or note any differences re the supply of paper forms resulting from
the WOCA processes?  e.g. did forms arrive in unusual ways or in unusual volumes?
•
the
  Confirm that Manurewa Marae did not also act as an ACL (assisted competition location)
separate to Stats NZ or WOCA run events? (Their community counts funding agreement
references ACL but then does not set any out in the details of activities. )
under
Released

1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released

s 9(2)(h)

1982

Act

Information

Official

the

under

Released

1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released