The Best Suburbs in Whanganui (2024)
Whanganui, nestled on the banks of the mighty Whanganui River, offers a diverse range of suburbs to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re looking to relocate, invest, or simply curious about the city’s most desirable areas, this guide will help you navigate Whanganui’s top suburbs. Let’s explore what makes these neighbourhoods stand out and why they might be the perfect fit for you.
St Johns Hill: The Crown Jewel
St Johns Hill consistently ranks as one of Whanganui’s most sought-after suburbs, offering a perfect blend of elevated views and proximity to the city centre.
Key features:
- Stunning views of the city and river
- Close to excellent schools, including Whanganui Collegiate School
- Mix of character homes and modern developments
- Median house price: Around $884,050
St Johns Hill’s appeal is reflected in its property values, with the median house price sitting higher than the Whanganui average. Its combination of quality housing, excellent amenities, and panoramic views makes it a top choice for families and professionals alike.
Springvale: Family-Friendly and Convenient
Springvale is a popular suburb known for its family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location.
Key features:
- Close to Springvale Park and Springvale Stadium
- Good schools, including Springvale School
- Mix of established homes and new developments
- Strong community feel
Springvale’s central location and strong community spirit make it particularly attractive to families and young professionals. The suburb offers a range of housing options, from charming older homes to contemporary new builds.
Gonville: Affordable with Potential
For those seeking more affordable options with potential for growth, Gonville is worth considering.
Key features:
- More affordable housing options
- Close to Gonville Domain and shopping centres
- Good public transport links
- Growing community with ongoing development
While Gonville has historically had a mixed reputation, recent years have seen significant improvements and development in the area. It’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for first-home buyers and investors looking for value and growth potential.
Bastia Hill: Elevated Living
Bastia Hill offers elevated living with stunning views of the city and river.
Key features:
- Panoramic views of Whanganui and surrounds
- Home to the iconic Bastia Hill Water Tower
- Quiet, residential atmosphere
- Mix of character homes and modern properties
Bastia Hill attracts those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with the bonus of breathtaking views. Its elevated position provides a sense of escape from the bustle of the city while remaining close to amenities.
Whanganui East: Character and Convenience
Whanganui East is one of the city’s most established suburbs, offering a blend of character homes and convenient living.
Key features:
- Close to the city centre and Whanganui River
- Home to Kowhai Park, a popular family destination
- Strong sense of community with local events
- Mix of affordable and mid-range housing options
Whanganui East’s central location and diverse housing stock make it popular among a wide range of residents, from first-home buyers to families and retirees.
Castlecliff: Beachside Living
For those dreaming of a beachside lifestyle, Castlecliff offers an excellent option with more affordable price tags compared to other coastal areas.
Key features:
- Beautiful beach with popular surf spots
- Castlecliff Beach Holiday Park
- More affordable housing options
- Growing community with new developments
While parts of Castlecliff have historically had a mixed reputation, recent years have seen significant improvements and new developments, particularly towards the coastal end. It’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for those seeking an affordable beachside lifestyle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Suburb
When deciding on the best suburb for you in Whanganui, consider the following factors:
- Budget: Property values vary significantly across Whanganui’s suburbs. Determine your budget and look for areas that offer the best value for your money.
- Lifestyle preferences: Do you prefer elevated views, beachside living, or proximity to the city centre? Consider what’s important to you in terms of daily living.
- Schools: If you have children or are planning to, research the school zones and quality of education in different areas.
- Future development: Look into planned infrastructure projects and developments that might affect property values and lifestyle in the future.
- Community feel: Visit the suburbs you’re interested in at different times of the day to get a feel for the community and atmosphere.
Local Attractions and Amenities
Whanganui boasts a range of attractions and amenities that add to the appeal of its suburbs:
- Kowhai Park: A vast playground delighting children for decades with its unique play equipment and Tot-Town Railway.
- Virginia Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by woodland walks, gardens, and a children’s playground.
- Whanganui Regional Museum: Home to an extensive collection celebrating the region’s natural and cultural history.
- Durie Hill Elevator and Tower: Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounds.
- River Traders Market: A popular weekend attraction showcasing local produce and crafts.
- New Zealand Glassworks: The country’s only open-access glass studio, offering demonstrations and workshops.
Investment Potential
For those looking to invest, Whanganui offers promising opportunities. According to recent data, the average house price in Whanganui is around $650,000, reflecting the city’s growing appeal and strong community spirit.
Some suburbs showing strong growth potential include:
- Gonville: Ongoing development and affordable entry point
- Castlecliff: Beachside living with new developments
- Whanganui East: Consistent demand due to central location
Whanganui offers a diverse range of suburbs to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly neighbourhood, a beachside retreat, or an investment opportunity, there’s a suburb in Whanganui to suit your needs.
Remember, while this guide provides an overview of some of Whanganui’s top suburbs, it’s always a good idea to spend time exploring the areas yourself. Talk to locals, visit at different times of the day, and consult with real estate professionals to get a comprehensive understanding of each suburb.
As Whanganui continues to grow and develop, its suburbs are likely to evolve, potentially creating new hotspots and investment opportunities. With its rich history, strong community spirit, and promising property market, Whanganui remains an attractive destination for both residents and investors in 2024 and beyond.