KiwiGlimpseOverview
Alton is a small rural village located in the South Island of New Zealand. The village is situated in a beautiful rural setting and is known for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Alton is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, fishing and camping.
| Alton Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Alton |
| Region | Southland |
| District Council | Southland District |
| Sub-District | Southland District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 01:40 PM |
| Date: | Sunday, May 10, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 53.17 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -39.6700 |
| Longitude | 174.4500 |
| DMS Lat | -40° 19' 48'' |
| DMS Long | 174° 26' 60'' |
History
Alton was originally settled by Maori people who used the area for hunting and gathering. In the mid-1800s, European settlers arrived in the area and established farms and businesses. The village was named after Alton Towers, a stately home in Staffordshire, England. Today, Alton is a small but thriving community that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage.
Geography
Alton is located in the South Island of New Zealand and is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, including the Southern Alps. The village is situated on the banks of the Rangitata River, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. The area is known for its rugged and beautiful landscape and is popular with hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Alton is located at latitude -39.67 and longitude 174.45 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -40° 19' 48'' and longitude 174° 26' 60'' (DMS).
Below is map of Alton
Demographics
According to the 2018 New Zealand census, Alton has a population of approximately 280 people. The village has a mix of European and Maori residents and the median age of residents is 40 years. The village has a relatively even gender split.
Climate
Alton has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The village experiences moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June. The area is prone to occasional snowfall in winter, which can create stunning scenery and excellent skiing conditions in nearby mountain ranges.
Alton Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Alton is home to a range of tourist attractions, including the Rangitata River, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. The village is also close to the Peel Forest Park, which is a stunning area of wilderness that offers hiking and camping opportunities. Other popular attractions in the area include the Mount Hutt Ski Area, which offers excellent skiing and snowboarding and the stunning scenery of the Southern Alps.
Economy
The economy of Alton is primarily driven by agriculture and tourism. The village is surrounded by productive farmland, which produces a range of crops including sheep, beef and dairy. The area is also popular with tourists and offers a range of accommodation options, including motels, bed and breakfasts and holiday homes.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Kakaramea School |
| 2 | Mokoia School |
| 3 | Patea Area School |
| 4 | Patea Kindergarten |
| 5 | Te KÅhanga Reo o Kaikaapo |
Nearby Towns and Cities
| Popular Towns and Cities | |
|---|---|
| Alton, Taranaki | Alton |
| Ball Road, Alton | Dale Street, Alton |
| Foreman Road, Manutahi | Garsed Road, Kakaramea |
| Greenways | Hursthouse Road, Alton |
| Oroua Stream, Taranaki | Pakerata Stream |