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Story: Atheism and secularism

Beliefs in 2008

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In 2008 over 1,000 New Zealanders revealed their beliefs about various things in a Massey University study conducted as part of the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP). While New Zealanders had become increasingly secular over time, the majority still believed in life after death and heaven. Large portions of the population were also superstitious.

This is the most up-to-date data available, as the ISSP study of religion only takes place every 10 years.

Using this item

Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand

Source: Religion in New Zealand: international social survey programme. Palmerston North: Massey University, March 2009, p. 2

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How to cite this page

Carl Walrond, Atheism and secularism – Who is secular?, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/graph/26203/beliefs-in-2008 (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Carl Walrond, published 23 March 2011.