Overview
Fairdown is a small rural community located in the West Coast region of New Zealand. The town is situated approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Westport and has a population of around 50 people. Fairdown is known for its beautiful natural scenery, strong agricultural industry and quiet, peaceful lifestyle.
| Fairdown Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fairdown |
| Region | West Coast |
| District Council | Grey District |
| Postal Code: | 7891 |
| Current Time: | 08:46 PM |
| Date: | Wednesday, April 22, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 52.34 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -41.7389 |
| Longitude | 171.7097 |
| DMS Lat | -42° 15' 39.9057'' |
| DMS Long | 171° 42' 34.9304'' |
History
The Fairdown area has a long history of Maori settlement, with evidence of early settlements dating back over 800 years. The area was later settled by European farmers in the mid-19th century, who established a thriving agricultural industry in the region. Today, the area is still predominantly rural and relies heavily on agriculture and forestry for its economy.
Geography
Fairdown is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and rolling hills. The area is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with many walking and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Buller River runs through the town, providing a source of water for local farms and supporting the local ecosystem.
Fairdown is located at latitude -41.73891508 and longitude 171.70970290 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -42° 15' 39.9057'' and longitude 171° 42' 34.9304'' (DMS).
Below is map of Fairdown
Demographics
The population of Fairdown is predominantly of European descent, with a small Maori population. The town has a mix of young families and older residents, with many people employed in the farming and forestry industries. The community is known for its strong sense of community spirit and support for local businesses and events.
Climate
Fairdown has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, which helps to support the local agriculture industry. The town is known for its clear blue skies and stunning sunsets, which can be enjoyed from many of the local walking trails and viewpoints.
Fairdown Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Fairdown is the Denniston Incline, a historic railway line that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The area is also home to several walking and hiking trails, including the Old Ghost Road and the Charming Creek Walkway. Other popular attractions in the area include the Westport Coal Mines and the Cape Foulwind Seal Colony.
Economy
The economy of Fairdown is primarily driven by agriculture and forestry, with many local farms and plantations producing a range of crops and timber products. The town also benefits from tourism, with many visitors coming to explore the local natural beauty and historic landmarks. The community is known for its strong support for local businesses and events, with many residents working to promote the area and attract new visitors.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Buller High School |
| 2 | Kawatiri Kids |
| 3 | St Canice's School (Westport) |
| 4 | Westport Deep Sea Fishing School |
| 5 | Westport Early Learning Centre |
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