Harewood is unlike any suburb in Christchurch. Compared to other areas in the city, it is home to a small population of locals as its location is most ideal for transport and industrial sectors.
Nestled in the northwestern side of the city, it is most known for its proximity to the Christchurch International Airport, making it a convenient location for travellers. Split by the State Highway 1, the eastern area of Harewood is mostly composed of residential homes, while the western part caters to industrial businesses, like freight services, rental cars, and campervans.
While Harewood serves as a convenient base for travellers, the suburb itself does not offer a ton of tourist sites. However, it is where you’ll find one of Christchurch’s major attractions – the International Antarctic Centre. It is also just a short drive’s away from other landmarks like the Willbank Wildlife Reserve and other local parks and nature reserves.
All that said, if you’re planning a trip to Christchurch or just a local looking to explore the city more, Harewood remains a must-see for convenience and tourism. Here’s everything you need to know!
Geography
Harewood boasts a flat landscape of residential homes, commercial establishments, and green spaces, including Roto Kohatu Reserve and Lakes Tahi and Rua, and a few local parks.
At a distance is the Waimakariri River, adding a unique natural beauty and making it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts.
Demographics
Harewood is part of the Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board area. But as an individual suburb, it is a much modest community with only 1,410 residents as of June 2022.
While it is one of the smaller suburbs in the city, it still reflects the same diverse, multicultural spirit of Christchurch. Its residents are a healthy mix of age groups, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds, as well as a welcoming neighbourhood of both locals and immigrants.
Here are other notable features about the Harewood community according to the 2018 New Zealand census:
- Age
The median age of Harewood residents is 49, which is significantly higher than the national average of 37 years old.
As for age groups, almost half (47.4%) of the Harewood population are between 30 to 64 years old. Next are senior citizens aged 65 and up, compromising 21.2% of the suburb. The youth have a smaller representation, wherein 17.3% are aged 15 to 29 and 14.1% are below 15 years old.
Overall, the age profile of Harewood shows an older, more mature community who are likely focused on career, family, or settling down for retirement.
- Ethnic background
Harewood is composed of 83.3% Europeans or Pākehās, 14.1% Asians, 3.5% Maoris, and 1.5% Pacific peoples. While ethnicities are not as diverse as other suburbs, it is still reflective of the multicultural nature of Christchurch as a whole. In fact, 21.9% of residents were born overseas, which shows the country’s appeal to immigrants.
- Religious background
In terms of religion, 43.1% of residents did not identify with any religion. The rest are 49.1% Christians, 1.5% Buddhists, 0.4% Hindus, and 0.9% other religions.
- Socioeconomic status
Based on the socioeconomic status of residents, Harewood appears to be a stable, self-sufficient community, especially when it comes to employment and finances. Only 2.5% of the population are unemployed, while 64.7% are employed either full-time or part-time. Moreover, the neighbourhood’s average income was $37,800, higher than the city’s average of $31,800.
Culture
Given its strategic location, the cultural vibe at Harewood is mostly characterised by its proximity to the Christchurch International Airport.
For one, it is traversed by the State Highway 1, a major highway in the New Zealand road network, thus serving as a major transport hub for the city.
Secondly, it houses several industrial businesses like freight companies, as well as rental car and campervan services for travellers.
As such, apart from the locals living in the area, it is common to see tourists and travelling locals in the area, adding to the vibrancy of the suburb. It is blessed with several natural spaces like the Roto Kohatu Reserve, Lakes Tahi and Rua, parks, playgrounds, and golf courses, further adding activity to the community.
Education
Harewood School is a primary school in the suburb, catering to years 1 to 6. Considering the small population of the area, it only had a student roll of 176 as of 2023.
While it is the only school in the neighbourhood, locals have easy access to other educational institutions in nearby suburbs like Burnside, which offers several primary and secondary schools.
Tourism
Harewood’s proximity to Christchurch International Airport makes it a popular entry point for visitors. While it is not known for historical landmarks or cultural attractions, it does offer a range of golf courses, parks and playgrounds, providing opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
The International Antarctic Centre is a particular highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into life on the frozen continent.
Furthermore, Harewood is accesible to nearby wine tours and the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, adding to the diverse tourist offerings.
Whether one is interested in wildlife, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, Harewood presents a wide array of options for exploration and enjoyment.
