Hastings, New Zealand

Hastings Heretaunga
City
Coordinates:
Country	New Zealand
Region	Hawke's Bay
Territorial authority	Hastings District
Founded	1873
Borough status	1886
City status	1956
Area
• Total	5,227 km2 (2,018 sq mi)
Population  (2022)
• Total	81,000
• Density	15/km2 (40/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+12 (NZST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+13 (NZDT)
Postcode(s)	4120, 4122
Area code	06
Website	Hastings District Council

Hastings (Māori: Heretaunga) is a city in the Hawke's Bay Region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is the administrative centre of the Hastings District, which also includes the nearby town of Havelock North and several smaller settlements. Hastings is known for its rich agricultural industry, particularly apple and wine production.

History

Hastings was founded in 1873 and named after Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India. The area was originally inhabited by the Māori people, specifically the Ngāti Kahungunu iwi. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-19th century, and the town quickly grew due to its fertile land and favorable climate.

In 1931, Hastings was significantly affected by the Hawke's Bay earthquake, which caused widespread damage and loss of life. The city was rebuilt with a focus on Art Deco architecture, similar to nearby Napier.

Economy

Hastings is a major hub for agriculture in New Zealand. The region's fertile soil and temperate climate make it ideal for growing a variety of crops, including apples, pears, and stone fruit. The area is also renowned for its viticulture, producing some of New Zealand's finest wines.

The city hosts several annual events that celebrate its agricultural heritage, including the Hawke's Bay A&P Show and the Blossom Festival.

Education

Hastings is home to a number of educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to secondary schools and tertiary education providers. Notable schools include Hastings Boys' High School, Hastings Girls' High School, and Karamu High School.

Transport

Hastings is well-connected by road, with State Highway 2 and State Highway 50 providing access to other parts of the North Island. The city is also served by the Hawke's Bay Airport, located in nearby Napier.

Public transport within the city is provided by a network of buses operated by Go Bus Transport.

Demographics

As of the 2022 census, Hastings has a population of approximately 81,000 people. The city has a diverse population, with a significant proportion of residents identifying as Māori or Pacific Islander.

Notable People

• John A. Lee, politician and writer
• Sam Neil, actor
• Piri Weepu, rugby player

Sister Cities

Hastings has several sister city relationships, including:

• Guilin, China
• Lugano, Switzerland
• Orange, Australia

See Also

• Hawke's Bay Region
• Napier, New Zealand
• Havelock North
• Hawke's Bay earthquake

External Links

• Hastings District Council