Overview
Hiruharama, also known as Jerusalem, is a small rural town located in the Whanganui region of New Zealand. The town is situated on the banks of the Whanganui River, approximately 75 kilometers northwest of the city of Whanganui. Hiruharama is known for its rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance and stunning natural scenery.
Hiruharama Details | |
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Location | Hiruharama |
Region | Canterbury |
District Council | Waimate District |
Sub-District | Waimate District |
Postal Code: | - |
Current Time: | 04:33 AM |
Date: | Saturday, January 18, 2025(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 53.36 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -39.5500 |
Longitude | 175.0700 |
DMS Lat | -40° 27' 0'' |
DMS Long | 175° 4' 12'' |
History
The area around Hiruharama has a long and important history, with evidence of Māori settlement dating back over 500 years. The town was founded in the mid-19th century by European missionaries, who established a Christian community in the area. The town became known as Jerusalem after a visit from the Irish nationalist leader, Sir Thomas Healy, who saw similarities between the plight of the Māori people and the Irish. Today, Hiruharama remains an important cultural and spiritual center for both Māori and non-Māori people.
Geography
Hiruharama is located in the heart of the Whanganui region, a large and diverse area of land that stretches from the west coast to the central North Island. The town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the Whanganui River, lush forest and rugged mountains. The town is located approximately 200 kilometers north of the city of Wellington.
Hiruharama is located at latitude -39.55 and longitude 175.07 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -40° 27' 0'' and longitude 175° 4' 12'' (DMS).
Below is map of Hiruharama
Demographics
Hiruharama has a small population of around 50 people. The majority of the town's residents are of Māori descent, with a small number of non-Māori people also living in the area. The town has a high proportion of older residents, with many people drawn to the town's spiritual significance and peaceful way of life.
Climate
The climate in Hiruharama is typical of the Whanganui region, with warm, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. The town experiences a moderate level of rainfall throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the winter months. Visitors to Hiruharama should be prepared for a range of weather conditions, particularly if engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or canoeing.
Hiruharama Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Hiruharama Live Weather
Overcast clouds
Humidity: 87%
Wind: 1.62 mt/sec towards E
observed on 17 Jan 2025 18:00
Hiruharama Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
12.22°C to 13.63°C
Overcast clouds
20.34°C to 20.34°C
Light rain
22.66°C to 22.66°C
Overcast clouds
21.39°C to 21.39°C
Overcast clouds
15.91°C to 15.91°C
Moderate rain
18.22°C to 18.22°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
While Hiruharama itself is a small town with few attractions, there are several interesting landmarks and tourist attractions in the surrounding area. These include the Whanganui River, a stunning waterway offering excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking and the Bridge to Nowhere, a historic bridge that spans the Whanganui River and is accessible only by boat or foot. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns of Whanganui and Raetihi, which offer a range of shopping, dining and cultural experiences.
Economy
The economy of Hiruharama is primarily based on tourism and local agriculture, with the town being a major producer of crops such as wheat and vegetables. The town also has a small number of businesses catering to tourists and travelers, including cafes and souvenir shops. Many of the town's residents work in agriculture or related industries.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
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1 | Kakatahi School |
2 | Nancy Winter Early Childhood Centre |
3 | Ngamatapouri School |
4 | Raetihi Primary School |
5 | Te Kōhanga Reo o Koriniti |
Nearby Towns and Cities
Popular Towns and Cities | |
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Aorangi Road, Ranana | Hiruharama |
Jerusalem | Kaitara Stream |
Mangoihe Stream | Morikau |
Okauai Stream | Otaupare Stream |
Otoutahi Stream | Rereaha Stream |