Last updated July 2026
Prestonville is a small suburb and industrial area within Invercargill, New Zealand. It covers 57 hectares of low-lying land on the Southland Plains and sits near the Waihopai River. The suburb features a mix of residential properties and industrial sites, with a recorded population of 27 at the 2018 census. Residents experience a quiet setting shaped by its proximity to the river and past industrial activity. Flood protection measures, including banks installed after major events, help manage risks in this part of the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Invercargill, Southland |
| Area | 57 hectares (0.57 km²) |
| Population (2018 Census) | 27 |
| Local Authority | Invercargill City Council |
| Key Feature | Low-lying land near Waihopai River |
| Flood Risk | Protected by flood banks |
About Prestonville
Prestonville lies within the city of Invercargill and combines residential housing with industrial land use. Its position on the fertile Southland Plains places it close to the Waihopai River and the New River estuary, contributing to its scenic yet low-lying character.
The suburb experienced significant flooding in 1984 when the Waihopai River burst its banks. Water inundated the area, causing property damage and prompting the installation of flood banks for future protection. Ongoing climate considerations include sea level rise risks for this part of Southland.
In the 1980s an aluminium processing plant operated in Prestonville to support the Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter. Local campaigns successfully restricted its operating hours due to noise, and the facility closed in 1994.
Today Prestonville remains a low-density area with a stable, small resident base. It forms part of the wider Prestonville-Grasmere statistical area and reflects the broader residential and industrial patterns of Invercargill.
Demographics
At the 2018 New Zealand census Prestonville recorded a population of 27 people across 15 households. The median age was 45.4 years. Ethnicities included 88.9% European/Pākehā, 22.2% Māori, 11.1% Pasifika and 11.1% other groups, with individuals able to identify with more than one ethnicity.
Median personal income stood at $26,800. Employment data showed 37.5% in full-time work, 12.5% in part-time roles and 12.5% unemployed among those aged 15 and over. No residents held a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification at the time of the census.
Environmental Considerations
Prestonville’s low-lying location makes it vulnerable to flooding and sea level rise. Flood banks installed after the 1984 event provide protection, while regional authorities continue to monitor and maintain stormwater infrastructure, including pump stations in the suburb.
Winter air quality in Invercargill can be affected by home heating emissions, a regional issue addressed through ongoing environmental initiatives in Southland.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia – Prestonville, New Zealand: Detailed suburb overview with census data and historical notes.
Invercargill City Council: Official information on local services, stormwater and community planning.
Stats NZ: Census data and demographic summaries for Prestonville and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Prestonville known for?
Prestonville is a small suburb and industrial area in Invercargill, notable for its low-lying position near the Waihopai River and its history of aluminium processing.
Did Prestonville experience major flooding?
Yes, the Waihopai River flooded the suburb in 1984, leading to the installation of flood banks that remain in place today.
What happened to the aluminium plant in Prestonville?
A 24-hour aluminium processing plant operated in the 1980s to support the Tiwai Point smelter. Community campaigns limited its hours, and it closed in 1994.
How many people live in Prestonville?
The 2018 census recorded a population of 27 residents in the suburb.
Is Prestonville at risk from sea level rise?
Its low-lying location places it at risk from sea level rise, as noted in local assessments.
Who manages services in Prestonville?
Invercargill City Council oversees local services including stormwater management and bin collections.
Are there parks or recreational areas in Prestonville?
The suburb offers limited dedicated green space, with residents accessing nearby Invercargill parks and river areas for recreation.
What is the housing like in Prestonville?
Prestonville features a mix of standalone homes and some industrial-adjacent properties, typical of a small mixed-use suburb.
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