Coalgate, New Zealand facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Coalgate
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Village
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Bridge Street, November 2011
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| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Canterbury |
| Territorial authority | Selwyn District |
| Ward | Malvern |
| Community | Malvern |
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| Area | |
| • Total | 1.09 km2 (0.42 sq mi) |
| Population
(June 2023)
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| • Total | 380 |
| • Density | 349/km2 (903/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time) |
| Area code(s) | 03 |
Coalgate is a small town in the Selwyn District of New Zealand. It is part of the Canterbury region, located on the South Island. You can find it about an hour west of Christchurch on State Highway 77.
The town's name comes from its past. It was once the "gateway" to areas rich in lignite coal. These areas included Whitecliffs, the Rakaia Gorge, and The Acheron River. Coal mining stopped in the 20th century. However, since the 1950s, a special type of clay called nontronite has been processed here.
About Coalgate's People
Coalgate is considered a rural settlement. It covers an area of about 1.09 square kilometers. In 2018, around 339 people lived here. This was an increase from 315 people in 2013. It was also a big jump from 228 people in 2006.
Most people in Coalgate are of European/Pākehā background. Some residents also identify as Māori or Pasifika. When asked about religion, many people said they had no religion. Others identified as Christian.
Things to Do in Coalgate
Coalgate has a few interesting spots. You can visit the Coalgate Tavern or stay at the Coalgate Cabins. Both are located on the main road towards Hororata.
There is also a walkway through the old Coalgate Domain. If you like sports, Coalgate has a bowling green. A garage is also available in town. The town is close to the Selwyn River. It sits just east of Glentunnel.
Getting Around Coalgate
Coalgate once had a railway station. It opened on November 3, 1875. This station was part of the Whitecliffs Branch railway line. A private railway line also started from here.
The railway closed on March 31, 1962. But you can still find parts of the old railway path. The Coalgate station platform can also still be seen. Today, State Highway 77 passes through Coalgate. This road is also known as the Inland Scenic Route 72.
