Whakarongo, Palmerston North

Whakarongo is a suburb of Palmerston North, between the city and Ashhurst. It is in New Zealand.

Population

It had a resident population of 906 (2001) [http://www2.stats.govt.nz/domino/external/web/CommProfiles.nsf/FindInfobyArea/560302-au]

Geography

Whakarongo is mainly rural. Many vegetable gardens can be found here.Kelvin Grove Cemetery was established in 1927.

History

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).

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.

chools

* Whakarongo School

Main streets

* Napier Road (SH3)
* Stoney Creek Road- the name recalls the name of the original settlement and leads to Bunnythorpe

Local Government representation

Whakarongo is part of the Ashhurst Ward and is represented by Cr Marilyn Craig.

Central Government representation

General
Whakarongo was once part of the Manawatu electorate, however it is now part of the Rangitikei electorate, represented by National MP, Simon Power.

Māori
Whakarongo is part of Te Tai Hauāuru electorate, represented by Māori MP, Tariana Turia.