Stats NZ transferring to 'safe, comfortable' Queen Street office: reports

Stats NZ will be transferring its Auckland office to Queen Street after reports of safety concerns from employees at their current location.

The agency confirmed to the New Zealand Herald its move to 191 Queen Street. This is 800 metres down the road from its current location on Greys Avenue.

"The decision to move was about finding a space that was more fit for purpose, where teams can work across one level, with good accessibility and improved access to public transport and amenities," the agency said in a statement quoted by the Herald.

"We also wanted somewhere which would be a pleasant environment for our people and either budget-neutral or cost-saving."

Safety concerns at work

The statement did not mention employees' safety concerns at their current location, which were first reported in May as the reason for the transfer.

But the agency said it is "confident" that their new office is a safe and comfortable workplace, noting that employees are also happy about the move.

"We've heard from our people that they are happy with the close proximity to transport options, making travel to and from work safer and easier, and that they will enjoy being in a busier part of town," the agency said as quoted by the Herald.

"The health and safety of our people is our priority, and we are confident that this Queen Street workplace is a safe and comfortable work environment."

Meanwhile, Public Service Association assistant secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said they are also supportive of Stats NZ's move to Queen Street.

"If safety issues arise, we will support our members in getting these addressed by Stats NZ," the assistant secretary told the Herald.