Last updated October 2026
Hargest is a residential suburb in Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city. It features a mix of housing styles and convenient access to local schools and transport. The area appeals to families due to its community focus and proximity to city amenities and coastal spots like Oreti Beach. Residents benefit from established infrastructure and links to central Invercargill.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 680, up 3% since 2018
- Land area
- 0.59 km² (59 ha)
- Location
- 3.5 km north-east of central Invercargill
- Council
- Invercargill City Council
- Getting there
- Hargest (4) bus route to the city centre and BusSmart Hub
Who Lives in Hargest
About 680 residents in 280 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Hargest
Two schools sit inside the Hargest boundary. All have an enrolment zone, so check an address is in zone before you buy or rent.
Also zoned for Hargest
Source: Ministry of Education school directory and enrolment zones (CC BY 4.0 and CC BY 3.0 NZ), October 2026. Zones change, so confirm with the school before relying on one.
Bin Day in Hargest
by 7am on collection day
Source: Invercargill City Council collection areas. Streets near a suburb edge can differ, so check the council lookup if unsure.
Safety and Hazards
Sources: Emergency Management Southland tsunami evacuation zones; Environment Southland significant floodplains.
Weather and Rent at a Glance
Sources: NIWA climate averages 1991-2020 (via Figure.NZ); Tenancy Services rental bond data (MBIE), CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026. City-wide figures.
In Hargest
Places and businesses inside the official Hargest boundary.
Places
About Hargest
Hargest lies within Invercargill and forms part of the city’s suburban residential areas.
Hargest lies within Invercargill and forms part of the city’s suburban residential areas. It offers a suburban setting with access to urban facilities and regional transport links.
The suburb includes a range of housing from established properties to newer builds. Local roads and the Hargest (4) bus route provide straightforward connections to the city centre and other parts of Invercargill.
James Hargest College serves the area with its dual-campus setup for Years 7–13 and around 1,900 students. The school supports a broad curriculum and international programmes.
Proximity to Oreti Beach allows residents short drives for coastal recreation. The wider Southland region offers additional outdoor options within easy reach.
Location and Accessibility
Hargest sits in central Invercargill, providing a balance of suburban quiet and access to services.
Hargest sits in central Invercargill, providing a balance of suburban quiet and access to services. Major roads link it directly to the city hub and surrounding districts.
Public transport includes the dedicated Hargest (4) bus route, which runs through the suburb and connects to the BusSmart Hub and key streets. Drivers benefit from straightforward road access for commutes.
Community and Education
The suburb maintains a family-oriented atmosphere with local events and interactions among residents.
The suburb maintains a family-oriented atmosphere with local events and interactions among residents. It ranks among preferred areas for families in local discussions.
James Hargest College stands as the primary educational facility, with separate junior and senior campuses on Layard Street. It caters to a wide age range and emphasises holistic development.
Housing and Property Market
Hargest has shown strong demand in past market reports, with properties often selling faster than average in some periods.
Hargest has shown strong demand in past market reports, with properties often selling faster than average in some periods.
The housing stock mixes classic and contemporary homes, suiting various buyers. Proximity to schools and amenities contributes to its appeal for families and investors.
Recreation and Nearby Attractions
Local parks and reserves support everyday leisure and sports.
Local parks and reserves support everyday leisure and sports. Oreti Beach, roughly 10–11 km from the city centre, offers beach walks and family outings a short drive away.
Residents also access broader Invercargill facilities such as Queens Park for additional green space and activities.
Near Hargest
Just outside Hargest, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Invercargill City Council: Official information on suburbs, services, buses and local planning.
James Hargest College: Details on the school, campuses and programmes serving the suburb.
Wikipedia – Hargest: Overview of the suburb with links to further references.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hargest known for in Invercargill?
Hargest is a residential suburb noted for its family-friendly setting, access to James Hargest College and convenient bus links.
Is there a bus service in Hargest?
Yes, the Hargest (4) route operates through the suburb and connects to the city centre and BusSmart Hub.
How far is Oreti Beach from Hargest?
Oreti Beach lies approximately 10–11 km from central Invercargill, making it a short drive from Hargest.
What schools serve Hargest?
James Hargest College provides education for Years 7–13 with two campuses located in the area.
What is the housing market like in Hargest?
The suburb has experienced periods of strong demand and relatively quick sales according to past market analyses.
Are there parks in or near Hargest?
Local parks and reserves are available, with larger options such as Queens Park accessible within Invercargill.
Is Hargest suitable for families?
Yes, the combination of schools, community atmosphere and amenities makes it popular with families.
Where can I find official maps of Hargest?
Invercargill City Council provides maps and suburb information on its website.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Explore Invercargill only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Hargest is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.