Christchurch, New Zealand: South Island's Principal Urban Centre
Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, sits on the Canterbury Plains by the Pacific. A regional hub for transport, education, arts and services serving greater Canterbury.
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand and is the third-largest urban area in the country. It occupies a coastal position on the island’s east side and functions as the principal urban centre for the surrounding plains.
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Location and character
The urban area stretches across the low-lying Canterbury Plains and is oriented toward the Pacific coast. Christchurch combines residential neighbourhoods, commercial districts, and civic institutions, and is a regional hub for transport, education and culture.
Population
The city’s recorded population was about 376,700 at the 2010 count; more recent estimates indicate modest growth since then. Population figures vary depending on whether one measures the city proper, the wider urban area, or the greater metropolitan region.
Name and early history
The name was chosen at the inaugural meeting of the Canterbury Association on 27 March 1848. The founders named the settlement after Christ Church, the college at the University of Oxford; the suggestion came from John Robert Godley, who had been associated with that college. Initially the town was known as "Christ Church." On 31 July 1856 it was granted city status by Royal Charter, a milestone that is commonly cited when referring to Christchurch as New Zealand’s oldest established city.
Today Christchurch remains an important centre on the South Island, with educational institutions, arts organisations and services that serve the wider Canterbury region.
Questions and answers
Q: What is the population of Christchurch?
A: The population is approximately 376,700 (2010).
Q: Where is Christchurch located?
A: Christchurch is located on the South Island's east coast.
Q: What is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand?
A: Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand.
Q: How did Christchurch get its name?
A: The name 'Christchurch' was decided upon at the first meeting of the Canterbury Association and came from the Christ Church, Oxford College.
Q: Who suggested the name 'Christchurch'?
A: John Robert Godley, who attended the Christ Church, Oxford College, suggested the name 'Christchurch'.
Q: When did Christchurch become a city?
A: Christchurch became a city by Royal Charter on July 31, 1856.
Q: What is the significance of Christchurch in New Zealand?
A: Christchurch is officially the oldest established city in New Zealand.
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Author
AlegsaOnline.com Christchurch, New Zealand: South Island's Principal Urban Centre Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/20058
Sources
- christchurchcitylibraries.com : "Christchurch Street Names: H"