Whakarongo
Whakarongo | |
|---|---|
Suburb of Palmerston North | |
Stony Creek | |
| Coordinates: 40°20′S 175°40′E / 40.333°S 175.667°E | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Manawatū-Whanganui region |
| Territorial authorities | Palmerston North |
| Electorates | |
| Government | |
| • Regional council | Horizons Regional Council |
| • Local Authority | Palmerston North City Council |
| Area | |
• Total | 51.23 km2 (19.78 sq mi) |
| Population (June 2024) | |
• Total | 1,870 |
| • Density | 37/km2 (95/sq mi) |
| Postcode | 4470 |
| Telephone | 06 |
Whakarongo is a suburb of Palmerston North, New Zealand, between the city and Ashhurst. It is mainly rural, and features many vegetable gardens.
Whakarongo was originally named Stoney Creek and along with neighbouring Kelvin Grove was part of the Stoney Creek Scandinavian and Roadmen's Block. The area was one of the first Special Settlements established by the Government (along with Karere Scandinavian Block, between Awapuni and Longburn). In 1926 the post office name was changed from Whakaronga to Whakarongo, though the names continued to be used interchangeably.
The original Scandinavian settlers were the first to arrive under Vogel's Immigration and Public Works Scheme. The majority arrived on the second ship (England) which arrived in April 1871, with a handful from the first ship (Celaeno) which arrived in February 1871. The Roadmen were mainly the British 'workmates' of the Scandinavian settlers.
Kelvin Grove Cemetery was established in Whakarongo in 1927.
There are no parks in the area.
State Highway 3 passes through Whakarongo on Napier Road. Stoney Creek Road, named after the original settlement, connects the area with Bunnythorpe.