Churton Park Property and Lifestyle Guide
Nestled in the northern suburbs of Wellington, Churton Park has rapidly transformed from farmland to one of the capital’s fastest-growing and most desirable residential areas. This comprehensive guide explores the property market, lifestyle, and community aspects of this thriving suburb.
Location and History
Situated just 1.5 km north of Johnsonville, Churton Park enjoys a prime location with easy access to both the city centre and the natural beauty of Wellington’s surroundings. The suburb was established in the 1970s, named after Jock Churton, a director of Fletcher Construction, which undertook numerous development projects in the area.
Originally farmland until 1970, Churton Park has a rich history dating back to the 1850s when Thomas Drake ran 200 sheep on the land. The area’s development was spearheaded by John Dick Walker, and it has since become one of Wellington’s youngest and fastest-growing suburbs.
Property Market
Churton Park’s property market has experienced significant growth in recent years, reflecting its increasing popularity among homebuyers and investors. The suburb offers a diverse range of housing options, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Housing Stock
As the 9th largest suburb in Wellington City in terms of total residential housing stock, Churton Park provides a variety of options for potential buyers. The suburb features a mix of:
- Modern family homes
- Townhouses
- Apartments
Many properties in Churton Park are relatively new, with ongoing developments continually adding to the housing stock. This ensures that buyers have access to contemporary homes with modern amenities and energy-efficient features.
Market Trends
To gain insights into the current property market in Churton Park, it’s essential to consider recent trends:
- Median sale price
- Median asking price
- Median rental price
For the most up-to-date information on these metrics, potential buyers and investors should consult local real estate websites or speak with local agents.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Churton Park offers residents a balanced lifestyle with a blend of urban conveniences and natural surroundings.
Recreation and Green Spaces
The suburb boasts several parks and reserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities:
- Churton Park Reserve: Features a recreational sports field, perfect for family outings and community events.
- Dog exercise parks: Ideal for pet owners to socialise and exercise their furry friends.
- Walking tracks: Scenic routes for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Community Facilities
The Churton Park Community Centre, located at 75 Lakewood Avenue, serves as a hub for local activities and events. The centre offers:
- Kea Hall: Suitable for physical activity classes, conferences, and meetings
- Ruru Room: A drop-in space with a boardroom table
- Kitchen facilities
- Modern amenities including data projectors, audio systems, and conferencing equipment
The community centre hosts various groups and activities, including fitness classes, craft groups, playgroups, and interest clubs.
Education
Churton Park is well-served by educational institutions:
- Churton Park School: An established primary school on Churton Drive
- Amesbury School: A newer primary school on Amesbury Drive, opened in 2012
- Churton Park Kindergarten: Located next to Churton Park School
The suburb falls within the enrolment zones for several secondary schools, including Onslow College and Newlands College.
Shopping and Dining
The Churton Park Village shopping centre provides residents with convenient access to everyday necessities, cafes, and local businesses. For more extensive shopping options, nearby Johnsonville offers a range of retail outlets and dining establishments.
Transportation
Churton Park benefits from excellent transport links:
- Bus Services: Routes 1 and 19 connect the suburb to Johnsonville, the city centre, and other key areas.
- Proximity to SH1: Only a 5-minute drive away, providing easy access to both north and southbound routes.
- Train Access: While not directly in Churton Park, train services are easily accessible from nearby stations, running seven days a week.
Future Growth and Development
Churton Park is poised for continued growth and development:
- Population Projection: Expected to grow to over 12,000 residents in the next 20 years.
- Ongoing Construction: New housing developments continue to expand the suburb’s residential offerings.
- Infrastructure Improvements: As the population grows, further enhancements to local amenities and services are anticipated.
Community Spirit
One of Churton Park’s most appealing aspects is its strong sense of community. The suburb’s relatively young age has fostered a welcoming atmosphere for new residents, with various community groups and events bringing neighbours together.
Churton Park offers a compelling blend of modern living, community spirit, and convenient access to Wellington’s urban centre. With its ongoing development, diverse property options, and family-friendly amenities, the suburb continues to attract a wide range of residents seeking a balanced lifestyle in the capital region. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a growing family, or an investor, Churton Park presents an attractive option in Wellington’s property market.