For locals, Strowan is known as an affluent suburb with beautiful homes, peaceful parks and all the urban necessities needed for easy residential living. For visitors and tourists, it serves as a welcoming community to experience serenity, luxury and community spirit away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
In this article, our team at Lovoir invites you to explore what makes Strowan a must-visit suburb in Christchurch.
Geography
Located a mere 5 km north-west of Christchurch’s vibrant central business district, Strowan is a suburban oasis that offers both a calm daily lifestyle and access to convenient city living. Bordered by the equally charming suburbs of Merivale to the south, Papanui to the north-east, and Fendalton to the south-west, it is a well-connected area with major roads like Papanui Road and Rossall Street running through it.
Public transport is also readily available, accessible by car, bike or the main train line north of Christchurch, making it easy for residents and visitors to explore the wider city.
As for its natural landscape, Strowan is rich in green spaces like Elmwood Park and Plynlimon Park, alongside flat roads of large, expensive residential homes and a range of commercial establishments.
Demographics
Strowan is a community that has a lot to offer in terms of diversity and lifestyle. With a population of around 3,550 residents as of June 2022, the suburb has seen steady growth over the years, attracting a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
Here are some fun facts to know about the Strowan community:
- Gender Balance. The suburb has a well-balanced gender distribution, similar to the overall demographics of Christchurch city. This balance contributes to the harmonious community spirit that Strowan is known for.
- Ethnic Composition. Strowan is predominantly European, making up about 80% of the population. However, the suburb is also home to a mix of other ethnicities, including 10% Māori and 5% Asian residents, along with smaller percentages of Pacific Islanders and other ethnic groups.
- Religious Diversity. Strowan is a community that respects diverse religious beliefs. While a significant portion of the population identifies as Christian, there are also smaller communities of Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. A considerable number of residents do not associate with any specific religion, reflecting the suburb’s inclusive nature.
- A Harmonious Blend of Age Groups. The median age in Strowan is 43 years, which is slightly higher than the Christchurch City median of 38 years. Moreover, almost half of the population, at 45.9%, are aged 30 to 64 years old. This indicates a mature yet vibrant community where career and family are often the focus.
The remaining age groups are as follows: 19.7% are below 15 years old, 17.5% are aged 15 to 29 years old, and 16.9% are 65 and older. This good balance of young and old age groups add to the vibrancy of the community.
- Stable Employment. Strowan boasts a highly educated population, with 36.4% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. This educational attainment translates into a skilled and empowered community. Approximately 50% of the working-age population is employed full-time, while around 20% are part-time employees. The unemployment rate is notably low, standing at just 3%.
Culture
Strowan is not just a residential area; it’s a thriving community.
Together with its neighbouring suburb, Merivale, it has 12 active community groups and a plethora of sport and recreation groups, making the area a hive of activity.
As a predominantly residential area, Strowan also offers a variety of amenities for its residents. A small shopping centre at the intersection of Wairakei and Normans Roads provides retail convenience. For healthcare needs, St. George’s Hospital, one of New Zealand’s largest private hospitals, is located in the southeastern corner of the suburb.
The culture of Strowan is also marked by resilience and service, especially in the aftermath of the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. Although it experienced little damage compared to other suburbs, it continued to show support through volunteer groups and programs.
Education
As a highly sought-after residential area, Strowan offers several esteemed educational institutions for its residents and nearby locals, catering to different age groups and preferences.
One is the Waimairi School, a primary school known for its holistic approach to education. It serves years 1 to 6.
Heaton Normal Intermediate is an intermediate school for years 7 and 8.
For years 1 to 13, there’s St Andrew’s College, a private, co-educational school that provides education from preschool to secondary levels. The Strowan House, named after its home suburb, remains one of the most iconic buildings in the campus.
These schools not only offer high-quality education but also contribute to the community spirit, making Strowan an ideal location for families seeking both academic excellence and a supportive environment.
Tourism
While Strowan may not be a traditional tourist hotspot, it offers a unique blend of attractions that make it worth a visit.
The shopping centre at the intersection of Wairakei and Normans Roads is a retail haven, featuring boutique stores, cafes, and essential services.
For a dose of architecture and history, a stroll along its streets may be a fun idea. You’ll find rows of large, sophisticated homes, some of which showcase old designs and a peak into the city’s past.
The suburb is also sprawling with greenery, parks and venues for leisure, recreation, and relaxation. Plynlimon Park is a small park with lush nature trails and a playground for kids. Another popular park in the area is Elmwood Park, located in nearby suburb Merivale. It serves as a recreational hub, hosting various sporting events and community activities throughout the year.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor wanting to explore Christchurch’s lesser-known gems, a trip to Strowan will not disappoint!
STROWAN WEATHER
