West Melton, New Zealand
West Melton | |
|---|---|
| Area | |
| • Total | 261.0046 km2 (100.7744 sq mi) |
| Population (2006) | |
| • Total | 5,613 |
| • Density | 22/km2 (56/sq mi) |
West Melton in New Zealand has the largest population in the Selwyn District of Canterbury, New Zealand due to a high density of farms and lifestyle blocks. It has long been associated with horse racing (trotting), arable land, and sheep farming. Recently, it has become associated with wine growing and deer farming.[citation needed] West Melton Aerodrome is located in the area.
The usually resident population has increased from 4,133 in 1996 to 5,613 for the 2006 census and to 7,056 in 2013. However, the census area stretches from the Waimakariri River in the north to the area surrounding, but not including, Tai Tapu in the south, reflecting a dense rural population. The actual population of the town itself is much lower.[1]