Country – New Zealand Standard Classification

"Country is a key variable for determining population and economic statistics that relate to birthplace, country of residence, overseas trade, and balance of payments data. There are two types of country classifications: the four-numeric classification and the two-alpha classification. Statistics NZ maintains the four-numeric classification according to the numeric codes and names assigned by the UN Statistical Division and the International Organization for Standardization. The four-numeric classification of a country is a hierarchical classification with three levels. There are nine major groups in level 1, 27 minor groups in level 2, and 244 countries in level 3. There are no residual categories as supplementary codes are used instead."