|
Free data tools help businesses NEW Zealand businesses, local government and community groups can now freely access electronic boundaries for maps that clearly show where relevant government statistics apply.These groups are all winners in today's announcement that Statistics New Zealand's Digital Boundaries and standard StreetLink files are now available at no cost. Statistics Minister Clayton Cosgrove said the government is committed to propelling further business growth, and to supporting the work of local and regional councils in their communities. "Making practical tools like electronic boundaries for existing maps available, removes a barrier to businesses and local authorities using data accurately." "Ensuring that quality data and this mapping information are freely available, assists businesses to better identify market opportunities, compare themselves to other businesses and make better investment decisions, no matter where they are and no matter how big or small they are," Mr Cosgrove said. Digital Boundaries is an electronic file that allows mapping and geographic information systems to show the boundaries of statistical and administrative areas. Digital Boundaries files are now available for free on CD. Visualising information in map form can help a company more easily understand such things as market concentrations, catchments for setting franchise areas and for purposes such as choosing outlet locations. It can also help local authorities track changes in their communities, and help determine where facilities are needed. "This announcement means that whereas it used to cost $3,300 plus GST for the standard five-yearly census pattern, or $25,212 plus GST for the annual detailed file, these files are now available at no cost," Mr Cosgrove said. The announcement also covers the standard StreetLink information - an electronic list that relates ranges of addresses to statistical and administrative areas such as meshblock area units or territorial local authority areas. StreetLink is a useful tool that assists business, local and central government planning. The StreetLink file had cost $6,000 plus GST for first supply. Annual updates were $2,000 plus GST for previous purchasers, or $250 per update for quarterly updates, but will be freely available as an emailed file, although individual requests for customised information may still incur a charge. |
About Us | Our Publications | Shopping | Visa Enquiries | Information Days | Links | Advertising | Privacy Policy
© 2005 Consyl Publishing & Publicity Ltd.