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Allanton, New Zealand facts for kids

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Allanton
Rural settlement
Country New Zealand
Island South Island
Region Otago
District Dunedin
Community board Mosgiel-Taieri Community Board
Electorates
  • Taieri
  • Te Tai Tonga (Māori)
Area
 • Total 0.79 km2 (0.31 sq mi)
Population
 (June 2023)
 • Total 330
 • Density 418/km2 (1,082/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+12 (NZST)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+13 (NZDT)
Postcode
9092
Area code 03
Local iwi Ngāi Tahu

Allanton (also called Ōwhiro in Māori) is a small town in Otago, New Zealand. It is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Dunedin. You can find it on State Highway 1. The town is near the Taieri River and the road to Dunedin International Airport. It sits on the eastern edge of the Taieri Plains.

The History of Allanton

How Allanton Got Its Name

When Europeans first arrived, the area was known as "Scroggs' Creek Landing." This name came from Samuel Scroggs. He was part of Charles Kettle's survey teams. The land around it was, and still is, called Owhiro.

In 1875, the railway from Dunedin reached the area. The community then became known as Greytown. This new name honored Sir George Grey, a former Governor.

A New Name for a New Era

By 1895, there was another Greytown in New Zealand. To avoid confusion, the local council decided to change the name again. They chose "Allanton" to show respect for James Allan. He was a local leader and church elder.

Polish Settlers in Allanton

Many Polish immigrants settled in Allanton. They were part of the "Brogdenites" group. These people had helped build the railway. You can still find Polish family names in the area today.

Changes in the Community

In recent years, Allanton has become smaller. The local school closed in 2004. The Sacred Heart Catholic Church also closed in 2005. The last shop, called the 'Honey Shoppe', closed in 2011.

Allanton's Population

What is Allanton's Population?

Allanton is a rural settlement. It covers about 0.79 square kilometers (0.3 square miles). In 2018, its population was 306 people. This means there were about 387 people per square kilometer.

Population Changes Over Time

The number of people living in Allanton has grown.

  • In 2006, there were 240 people.
  • In 2013, the population was 255.
  • By 2018, it had grown to 306 people.

This was an increase of 51 people since 2013.

Who Lives in Allanton?

In 2018, there were 126 homes in Allanton. There were slightly more males than females.

  • About 17.6% of people were under 15 years old.
  • About 14.7% were 65 years or older.

Most people (95.1%) were of European background. Some people (5.9%) were Māori.

Education in Allanton

Allanton is home to the Dunedin campus of OneSchool Global. This is an international private school. The local public primary school closed in 2004. Its students now attend East Taieri School.

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