KiwiGlimpseOverview
Sheffield is a small rural town located in the Selwyn District of New Zealand's South Island. It has a population of around 250 people and is known for its beautiful countryside and close proximity to several popular tourist destinations.
| Sheffield Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sheffield |
| Region | Canterbury |
| District Council | Selwyn District |
| Postal Code: | 7580,7571,7500 |
| Current Time: | 02:04 PM |
| Date: | Saturday, April 18, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 52.43 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -43.3890 |
| Longitude | 172.0220 |
| DMS Lat | -44° 36' 39.7389'' |
| DMS Long | 172° 1' 19.0747'' |
History
Sheffield was named after the English city of the same name, which was the hometown of an early settler in the area. The town's economy was primarily based on farming, with sheep and cattle farming being the main industries. The town was also home to a railway station on the Midland Line, which connected Christchurch to the West Coast.
Geography
Sheffield is located in the Selwyn District of New Zealand's South Island, about 50 kilometres west of the city of Christchurch. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by the Southern Alps and several rivers, including the Waimakariri River. The town is close to several popular tourist destinations, including the Arthur's Pass National Park and the ski fields at Mount Hutt.
Sheffield is located at latitude -43.38896143 and longitude 172.02196520 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -44° 36' 39.7389'' and longitude 172° 1' 19.0747'' (DMS).
Below is map of Sheffield
Demographics
According to the 2018 New Zealand census, Sheffield has a population of around 250 people. The town has a relatively even gender split, with 51% female and 49% male residents. The majority of residents are of European ethnicity, with a small number of Māori and Pacific Islander residents.
Climate
Sheffield has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The town receives an average of 600-700mm of rainfall each year, which is spread relatively evenly throughout the year. The town can experience strong nor'westerly winds, particularly during the spring and summer months.
Sheffield Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Sheffield is close to several popular tourist attractions, including the Arthur's Pass National Park, which has beautiful hiking trails and scenic drives and the ski fields at Mount Hutt, which offer skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The town is also close to several rivers and lakes, which offer opportunities for fishing and other water sports.
Economy
Sheffield's economy is primarily based on farming, with sheep and cattle farming being the main industries. The town also has a small number of businesses, including a general store and a cafe. Many residents commute to nearby towns and cities for work.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Annabel's Kindergarten - Darfield |
| 2 | Darfield High School |
| 3 | Darfield Playcentre |
| 4 | Darfield School |
| 5 | Glentunnel School |