Palmerston North

Population estimate 76,000

Situated on the banks of the Manawhatu River and the base of the Tararua mountain ranges, Palmerston North has a thriving economy which is largely due to its geographical location in central North Island and the prolific farming and agricultural activities. It is also home to some of the best schools and University in the country. A short distance from Palmerston North will take you to the Ruahine Mountain range which provides some of the best remote location experiences you will find anywhere in New Zealand and the walks are some of the most challenging in the country taking you to back countries huts which in some cases are merely two or three man steel wire bunks with a pot belly stove and babbling river outside. For those of you wanting the genuine stoney river experience, this is it, you can even catch a trout right out side your hut. Be warned, this is not for the faint hearted, both the Ruahine and Tararua ranges are for the hardy among us and should not be attempted unless extremely physically fit.

Palmerston North City however is bristling with activity and has a great economy and strong motor industry representation which sells to the wealthy farming sector and thriving industry around the city. Positions are usually available in every sector of the motor industry here and it is the national head quarters for both Toyota New Zealand and Truck Distributors who are two of the largest companies in the motor industry.

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