About Northland
Culture & History
Maps of Northland
Climate
Nature & Environment
Economy
Arts
Population & People
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Northland Visitor Guide

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Birthplace of a nation

Northland is the Birthplace of a Nation. From the arrival of the first canoes on the shores of the Hokianga Harbour, to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in the Bay of Islands.

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People and Population

The Polynesian explorer, Kupe made the first landfall on the shores of the Hokianga Harbour and many Northland tribes people trace their ancestry back to him.

The eighteenth century saw the arrival of European migrants from England, France, Scotland, Dalmatia, Ireland and Wales to establish missions here or work in the kauri industry and agriculture.

Local children gathering shellfish.

Today the region has a population base of approximately 148,000, spread through cities, towns and communities on a land area of 13,800 square km. About 51,500 employees (FTE) work for almost 17,500 businesses.

The region holds strong appeal to New Zealanders and international visitors alike for its lifestyle and workstyle. As a result most parts of Northland have experienced steady growth over the past few years and this trend is set to continue.

Key Facts

Population Base:
148,000 people -
Whangarei 74,500
Kaipara 18,000
Far North 56,000

Traffic Lights?
No traffic lights north of Whangarei.

High Rise Buildings?
High rise buildings do not exist North of Whangarei.