Matarau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Matarau
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|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Northland Region |
| District | Whangarei District |
| Ward | Hikurangi-Coastal Ward |
| Electorates |
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| Area | |
| • Total | 15.31 km2 (5.91 sq mi) |
| Population
(2023 Census)
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|
| • Total | 465 |
| • Density | 30.37/km2 (78.66/sq mi) |
Matarau is a small place in Northland, New Zealand. It is located to the northwest of Kamo. This area used to be mostly farmland. Now, it is changing into lifestyle blocks. These are larger pieces of land where people build homes.
The name "Matarau" has a special meaning. In the Māori language, it means "many points" or "many spears".
About Matarau's Population
Matarau is a growing community. In the 2023 New Zealand census, 465 people lived here. This was an increase of 18 people since the 2018 census. It was also an increase of 42 people since the 2013 census.
There were 237 males and 231 females living in Matarau. They lived in 144 homes. About 102 people (21.9%) were under 15 years old. Most people, 210 (45.2%), were between 30 and 64 years old.
Who Lives in Matarau?
People in Matarau come from different backgrounds. Most people (92.9%) are European (also called Pākehā). A good number of people (22.6%) are Māori. There are also smaller groups of Pasifika (5.2%) and Asian (1.9%) people. Some people (2.6%) identify with other ethnic groups.
Almost everyone (98.1%) in Matarau speaks English. About 3.2% of people speak the Māori language. Other languages are spoken by 4.5% of the population. A small number of people (10.3%) were born outside New Zealand.
Beliefs and Jobs
When it comes to beliefs, 27.1% of people in Matarau are Christian. Many people (60.0%) said they had no religion.
For those aged 15 and older, 12.4% had a university degree or higher. Most people (66.9%) had a certificate or diploma after high school. About 17.4% had only high school qualifications.
Many people in Matarau have jobs. About 54.5% work full-time. Another 17.4% work part-time. Only a small number (2.5%) were unemployed.
Matarau School
Matarau School is a local school for children in years 1 to 8. It is a coeducational school, meaning both boys and girls attend. As of February 2024. , there are 257 students.
The school first opened in 1877. Back then, it was called Ruatangata East School. Over the years, other smaller schools joined with Matarau School. Otakairanga School joined in 1949. Ruatangata West School also closed and its students came to Matarau in 1973.
