New Zealand Official Yearbook: 2004

14 October 2004

2004 Official Yearbook Launched

The 104th edition of the New Zealand Official Yearbook, believed to be New Zealand's longest-running publication, will be launched this evening by the Associate Minister of Finance, Hon. David Cunliffe. First published as a yearbook in 1893, its origins can be traced to the Official Handbook of New Zealand. This was produced by Sir Julius Vogel in 1875 as a promotional publication to encourage investment in New Zealand.

The 2004 yearbook documents government, business and social developments that have occurred in New Zealand since publication of the 2002 edition. It continues the tabular and graphic time series of previous yearbooks and features material from more than 120 contributors.

The book also has approximately 150 photographs depicting aspects of life in New Zealand. Government Statistician Brian Pink paid tribute to the work of the contributors to the yearbook, who represent a broad range of public and private sector groups. "The book exists due to the time and efforts of these people, who willingly provide information for this important statistical publication," he said. New Zealand Official Yearbook 2004 is published by David Bateman Ltd and available from major booksellers for $99.99.

Brian Pink Government Statistician

ENDS