The next New Zealand census will be held on 8 March 2011.
Statistics New Zealand announced the date on Monday, saying preparations for the official count of population and dwellings are already under way.
Acting government statistician Cathyrn Ashley-Jones says it hopes more people will fill out census forms online this time.
In the last census, 7% of people completed forms online, but Statistics New Zealand is hoping for at least 20% this time.
Ms Ashley-Jones says about 7,500 staff will be needed to carry out the census, which provides a snapshot of New Zealand.
