Lifestyle
From affordable living costs to stunning natural scenery and a strong community spirit, Manawatu has it all.
Affordability: One of the biggest advantages of living in Manawatu is its affordability. Compared to other major cities in New Zealand, the cost of living in Manawatu is considerably lower. This means that you can stretch your budget further and enjoy a higher quality of life. With affordable housing, food, and transportation costs, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy the great outdoors, Manawatu has plenty to offer. The region is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and rivers. This makes it a perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy cycling, hiking, fishing, and camping. The Manawatu River also provides opportunities for kayaking, jet boating, and water skiing.
Cultural Events: Manawatu is a culturally vibrant region that hosts a range of events throughout the year. From art exhibitions to music festivals and theater performances, there is always something to see and do. These events provide a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet new people.
Education: The Manawatu region is home to Massey University, one of New Zealand’s leading universities. This provides an opportunity for students to access world-class education without having to travel to bigger cities. The region also has several primary and secondary schools, providing quality education for families with children.
Food and Wine: Manawatu has a growing food and wine industry, with several vineyards and farmers’ markets. This makes it easy to access fresh, locally sourced produce, which is a great benefit for foodies. The region is also known for its craft breweries and restaurants that showcase the best of local produce.
Shopping: Manawatu has a range of shopping options, from boutique stores and specialty shops to malls. This provides plenty of options for retail therapy, whether you’re looking for designer fashion or unique artisanal goods.
Healthcare: Manawatu has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, medical centers, and pharmacies. This means that residents can access quality healthcare without having to travel long distances.
Community Spirit: One of the standout features of Manawatu is its strong community spirit. The region has several community groups and initiatives promoting social connectivity and support. This makes it easy to make new friends and feel part of a welcoming community.
Public Transport: Manawatu has an extensive public transport system, making it easy to travel within and outside the region. This includes buses, trains, and taxis, providing convenient and affordable options for getting around.
Housing: Manawatu offers a range of housing options, from affordable apartments to spacious family homes. This makes it easy for migrants to find a home that suits their needs and budget.
Sports Facilities: The region has several sports facilities, including golf courses, swimming pools, and sports centers. This provides plenty of opportunities for residents to stay active and participate in their favorite sports and activities.
Employment Opportunities: Manawatu has a growing economy, with several employment opportunities in various industries. This includes agriculture, manufacturing, education, and healthcare, providing a diverse range of job prospects for migrants.
Friendly People: Manawatu is known for its friendly and welcoming people. This makes it easy to settle in and make new friends, whether you’re a new migrant or a long-term resident.
Scenic Beauty: Manawatu is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and rivers. This provides plenty of opportunities for residents to explore and appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
Climate: The region has a mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it comfortable to live in year-round.
Towns and Cities
If you’re considering a move to the Manawatu region, there are several towns and cities to choose from that offer a range of lifestyle options to suit different preferences. Here are some of the main towns and cities in the region:
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Palmerston North: Palmerston North is the largest city in the Manawatu region, with a population of around 90,000 people. The city is known for its excellent education facilities, including Massey University and the Universal College of Learning (UCOL). Palmerston North also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several galleries, theaters, and museums. The city offers a range of housing options, from affordable apartments to spacious family homes, and is home to several parks and recreational facilities.
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Feilding: Feilding is a charming town located just 20 minutes from Palmerston North. The town is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and vibrant community spirit, with several community events and initiatives that promote social connectivity and support. Feilding is also home to New Zealand’s largest livestock saleyard, which attracts buyers and sellers from all over the country.
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Levin: Levin is a bustling town located just 90 minutes from Wellington. The town is known for its gardens and parks, including the Levin Adventure Park, which features a range of outdoor activities for all ages. Levin also has a thriving business community and several retail options, including a shopping mall and boutique stores.
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Woodville: Woodville is a small town located at the foot of the Tararua Range. The town is popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Woodville also has a range of local businesses and cafes, making it a great place to stop and explore on a road trip.
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Ashhurst: Ashhurst is a small town located just 15 minutes from Palmerston North. The town is known for its natural beauty, with several walking and cycling trails that offer stunning views of the Manawatu River and surrounding countryside. Ashhurst also has a strong community spirit, with several local events and initiatives that promote social connectivity and support.
No matter which town or city you choose to settle in, the Manawatu region offers a range of lifestyle options to suit different preferences. From bustling cities to charming towns, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Local history
The Manawatu has a rich history spanning many centuries. The region is named after the Manawatu River, which flows through the heart of the region, providing life to the land and its people.
The first people to settle in the region were the Maori, who arrived in New Zealand over 1000 years ago. The Manawatu region was an important area for Maori, as it provided a link between the east and west coasts of the North Island. They relied on the river for transport, food and cultural significance, and established many settlements along its banks.
The Maori of the region have a rich cultural heritage, and many of their traditions and practices are still alive today. The region was home to the famous Maori chief Te Rauparaha, who was instrumental in the expansion of the Ngati Toa tribe. The tribe played a significant role in the history of New Zealand and were involved in many battles and conflicts with other tribes.
The first Europeans to arrive in the region were missionaries in the early 19th century, followed by farmers and settlers who established towns and cities in the region. Palmerston North, the largest city in the region, was founded in 1866, and many of the other towns followed soon after. European settlement had a significant impact on the region, with many of the forests cleared for farming and grazing, and the river used for transport and industry.
In more recent times, the Manawatu region has become a hub for education, with Massey University, one of New Zealand’s leading universities, located in the region. The region has also been a center for innovation, with several high-tech industries and research institutions located in the area.
Public Safety
The region has a relatively low crime rate, which makes it a safe and secure place to live or visit.
In comparison to other regions in New Zealand, Manawatu ranks well in terms of public safety. According to recent crime statistics, the region has one of the lowest crime rates in the country, with low levels of property crime and violent crime. The region also has a strong police presence, with officers working closely with community members to prevent crime and ensure public safety.
Internationally, Manawatu also fares well in terms of public safety. New Zealand is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, and the region of Manawatu is no exception. With its low crime rate, friendly community, and beautiful natural environment, Manawatu is a safe and welcoming destination for people from all over the world.
Despite its strong safety record, it’s important to remember that no place is entirely free of risk. Visitors to Manawatu should take sensible precautions to protect themselves and their property, such as locking doors and windows and being aware of their surroundings. By doing so, they can enjoy all that this wonderful region has to offer in safety and security.
Housing
The Manawatu region is a desirable place to live for many people in New Zealand. It offers a range of benefits, including a low cost of living, a friendly community, and access to beautiful natural landscapes. These factors have made the region’s property and housing market increasingly popular among home buyers and investors.
In comparison to other parts of the country, Manawatu’s property prices are relatively affordable. According to recent data, the average house price in the region is around $500,000. This is significantly lower than the average house price in cities like Auckland and Wellington, which can exceed $1 million.
One of the most affordable suburbs in Manawatu is Roslyn, located in the city of Palmerston North. The suburb boasts a median house price of around $310,000, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers or those on a tight budget. Other affordable suburbs in the region include Linton and Levin, with median house prices of around $390,000 and $420,000 respectively.
In terms of upcoming suburbs, the city of Palmerston North is experiencing significant growth and development. The suburb of Milson, located in the northern part of the city, has seen a surge in demand in recent years. With its close proximity to the airport and easy access to the city centre, Milson is becoming an increasingly popular option for home buyers and investors.
Another upcoming suburb is Hokowhitu, located in the heart of Palmerston North. The suburb boasts a range of amenities, including parks, schools, and shopping centres, making it an attractive option for families and professionals. Despite its popularity, house prices in Hokowhitu remain relatively affordable, with a median price of around $590,000.
Overall, the Manawatu region’s property and housing market offers a range of affordable options for home buyers and investors. With a growing population and strong demand for housing, the region is expected to remain a popular destination for those seeking a high quality of life at an affordable cost.
Newcomers
Moving to a new area can be a daunting experience, and settling into a new community can be especially challenging for migrants and refugees. Fortunately, the Manawatu region of New Zealand offers a range of settlement services to help newcomers navigate their new home and build a new life.
One of the key organizations that offers support to migrants and refugees in the region is the Red Cross. The Red Cross offers a range of services, including support with finding housing, accessing health care services, and providing cultural support. They also offer programs for youth, women, and families.
Another important organization is the Palmerston North Migrant Centre. The centre offers a range of support services, including language classes, employment assistance, and social events. They also offer free legal advice and advocacy for migrants and refugees who are facing legal issues.
English language classes are also available through a range of organizations, including schools, community centres, and language schools. These classes are designed to help newcomers improve their language skills and better communicate with locals.
The Palmerston North Resettlement Centre is another important organization that provides support to refugees who are resettling in the region. The centre offers a range of services, including assistance with finding housing, accessing health care services, and connecting with local community groups.
Other important organizations that offer support to newcomers in the Manawatu region include the Manawatu Multicultural Council, the New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils, and the Ministry of Social Development.
Overall, the settlement services available in the Manawatu region offer a wealth of support to migrants and refugees who are looking to build a new life in New Zealand. By providing assistance with language, employment, housing, and community integration, these services help newcomers feel welcome and supported as they settle into their new home.
Health and well-being
The Manawatu region has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to residents and visitors. The region has a number of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers, offering everything from emergency care to specialized treatments.
One of the key healthcare providers in the Manawatu region is the MidCentral District Health Board (MDHB). The MDHB oversees a range of hospitals and clinics throughout the region, including Palmerston North Hospital and Horowhenua Health Centre. These facilities provide a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments for conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
The region also has a number of private healthcare providers, including specialists in fields such as dentistry, ophthalmology, and physiotherapy. These providers offer a range of treatments and procedures, from routine checkups to complex surgeries.
In addition to medical treatment, the Manawatu region also has a range of services focused on overall health and wellbeing. This includes mental health and addiction services, as well as support for those with disabilities or chronic conditions.
The region has a number of community health initiatives, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing illness. These initiatives include exercise programs, healthy eating initiatives, and smoking cessation programs. Additionally, the Manawatu region is home to a number of natural health and wellness practitioners, offering everything from massage therapy to acupuncture.
Overall, the Manawatu region’s healthcare and wellbeing services offer a comprehensive range of support for residents and visitors. With a focus on both medical treatment and overall health and wellness, the region provides a well-rounded approach to healthcare that ensures the wellbeing of its community.
Council services
Local government plays a significant role in New Zealand’s democracy, and it is responsible for providing essential services and infrastructure to its communities. The local government system is divided into two tiers: district and city councils, and regional councils.
District and city councils are responsible for providing essential services and infrastructure within their geographic boundaries, such as water and wastewater services, waste management, local roads, and parks and recreation facilities. These local councils are also responsible for land use planning, building control, and community development initiatives.
Regional councils are responsible for managing natural resources within their regions, such as water and air quality, and land use planning that spans multiple districts and cities.
The Manawatu region of New Zealand is home to four district councils and one regional council. These councils are:
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Horowhenua District Council: responsible for providing services to the Horowhenua district, including the towns of Levin, Foxton, and Shannon.
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Manawatu District Council: responsible for providing services to the Manawatu district, including the towns of Feilding, Sanson, and Rongotea.
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Tararua District Council: responsible for providing services to the Tararua district, including the towns of Dannevirke, Pahiatua, and Woodville.
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Palmerston North City Council: responsible for providing services to the city of Palmerston North, including infrastructure, community services, and environmental initiatives.
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Rangitikei District Council: responsible for providing services to the Rangitikei district, including the towns of Marton, Bulls, and Taihape.
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Ruapehu District Council: responsible for providing services to the Ruapehu district, including the towns of Ohakune, Raetihi, and Waiouru.
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Manawatu Regional Council: responsible for managing the natural and physical resources of the Manawatu region, including land, water, and air. The council also provides regional-scale services such as flood management and public transport planning.
Each council plays an essential role in providing services to their local communities, developing long-term plans for the region’s future growth and development, and working closely with other local government bodies to ensure the needs of the entire region are met.
Infrastructure
The Manawatu region is well-served by a range of infrastructure, including transport, telecommunications, and essential services that are important to new migrants and businesses looking to resettle within the region.
Transportation infrastructure in the region is diverse, with a range of options for both people and freight. The region has an extensive road network, including State Highway 1 and State Highway 3, which connect the region to other major cities and towns in New Zealand. Rail transport is also available, with the region served by the Main Trunk Line, which connects the region to Wellington, Auckland, and other parts of the North Island. The region also has a number of small airports, including Palmerston North Airport, which offers regular domestic flights to other parts of New Zealand.
Telecommunications infrastructure in the region is also well-developed, with high-speed internet available in most areas. Mobile phone coverage is also extensive, with major providers like Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees offering coverage throughout the region.
In addition to transport and telecommunications infrastructure, the Manawatu region has a range of other important services that are relevant to new migrants and businesses. These include access to healthcare services, education and training, and community support services. The region has several hospitals and medical centres, as well as a number of primary healthcare providers. The region also has a range of schools, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, which provide quality education and training opportunities to residents.
