Overview
Hampden is a small coastal town located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. The town has a population of approximately 500 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and relaxed lifestyle. Hampden is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of outdoor activities and opportunities to experience New Zealand's natural beauty.
Hampden Details | |
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Location | Hampden |
Region | Otago |
District Council | Waitaki District |
Sub-District | Waitaki District |
Postal Code: | - |
Current Time: | 04:21 PM |
Date: | Thursday, July 10, 2025(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 52.07 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -45.3245 |
Longitude | 170.8182 |
DMS Lat | -46° 40' 31.9566'' |
DMS Long | 170° 49' 5.5423'' |
History
The area around Hampden has a rich Maori history, with many archaeological sites and artifacts found in the region. The first European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s and established a whaling industry in the area. The town gradually grew as more settlers arrived and began farming the surrounding land. Today, Hampden is a small but thriving community with a strong sense of history and cultural heritage.
Geography
Hampden is located on the east coast of the South Island and is surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The town is situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with beautiful beaches and rugged coastline providing opportunities for swimming, surfing and exploring. The nearby Waitaki River offers opportunities for fishing and water sports, while the surrounding hills and farmland provide a picturesque backdrop.
Hampden is located at latitude -45.32445650 and longitude 170.81820620 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -46° 40' 31.9566'' and longitude 170° 49' 5.5423'' (DMS).
Below is map of Hampden
Demographics
Hampden has a small but diverse population of approximately 500 people. The town has a mix of Maori, European and Pacific Islander residents, with a strong sense of community and pride in its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is welcoming to visitors and newcomers and its friendly residents make it a great place to live or visit.
Climate
Hampden has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. The town experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, which keeps the surrounding countryside lush and green. The weather can be unpredictable at times, with sudden changes in temperature and weather patterns, making it important for visitors to be prepared for any conditions.
Hampden Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Hampden Live Weather
Light rain
Humidity: 95%
Wind: 2.56 mt/sec towards NE
observed on 10 Jul 2025 06:00
Hampden Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
11.68°C to 12.34°C
Light rain
12.58°C to 12.58°C
Moderate rain
12.64°C to 12.64°C
Light rain
12.49°C to 12.49°C
Light rain
12.55°C to 12.55°C
Light rain
13.35°C to 13.35°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Hampden is home to a range of landmarks and tourist attractions, including the Moeraki Boulders, a collection of large spherical rocks that have become a popular attraction for visitors. The town is also located near the Waitaki River, which provides opportunities for fishing and water sports and the nearby Oamaru town is known for its stunning historic architecture and museums. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches and scenic countryside, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Economy
The economy of Hampden is based mainly on agriculture and tourism. The surrounding farmland is used for sheep and cattle farming, while the town's beautiful beaches and natural scenery attract visitors from around the world. The town also has a small but growing art and craft industry, with many local artists and artisans producing high-quality work that is sold locally and internationally.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
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1 | East Otago High School |
2 | Hampden School |
3 | Kakanui School |
4 | Learning Links Palmerston |
5 | Maheno Kindergarten |
Nearby Towns and Cities
Popular Towns and Cities | |
---|---|
Baghdad Creek | Chalgrove |
Hampden Beach | Hampden |
Inverness, Otago | Kakaho Creek |
Kuriiti Creek | Kurinui Creek |
Moeraki Beach | Moeraki Boulders / Kaihinaki |