Thornbury, New Zealand facts for kids

Thornbury is a small town located in the western part of Southland, New Zealand. It sits on the east bank of the lower Aparima River. Thornbury is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) northeast of Riverton. It is also about 31 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Invercargill. This town mainly helps the local farming community. It also has small businesses like machinery and trucking companies, and a tannery.

Thornbury's Story

Thornbury was started by early settlers named Matthew Instone and Robert Foster. Robert Foster named the town after his wife's hometown. Her birthplace was a market town called Thornbury in Gloucestershire, England.

The Railway Hub

Thornbury first grew because it was an important railway junction. A railway line from Invercargill split into two at Thornbury. One line went along the coast to Riverton and Tuatapere/Orawia. The other line, called the Wairio Branch, went inland to coal mines at Nightcaps. In 1978, the Tuatapere Branch line was closed. It was later removed.

Learning in Thornbury

Thornbury School is a primary school for children. It teaches students from Year 1 to Year 6. The school first opened its doors on June 6, 1883.