Welcome to our detailed exploration of Thorndon, one of Wellington’s most distinguished suburbs. Known for its rich history and elegant charm, Thorndon offers a unique blend of old-world grace and modern convenience. Let’s dive into what makes Thorndon special.

Overview of Thorndon

Thorndon is nestled in the heart of Wellington, offering residents a serene escape from the bustling city centre while still being conveniently close. This suburb is renowned for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to key government buildings, making it a prestigious address in Wellington.

Point of Differences

What sets Thorndon apart is its preservation of historic architecture amidst a modern urban setting. Unlike many other suburbs, Thorndon has managed to retain much of its 19th-century charm, with many homes listed as heritage buildings. This blend of old and new creates a unique living environment that’s hard to find elsewhere in Wellington.

Shops and Amenities

Thorndon boasts a variety of local shops, cafes, and services that cater to both daily needs and luxury tastes. From quaint bookshops to high-end boutiques, the shopping scene here is both diverse and sophisticated. Key amenities include:

• Thorndon Village: A hub for local shopping with a supermarket, pharmacy, and several eateries.
• Boutique Stores: Speciality shops offering everything from antiques to designer clothing.
• Cafes and Restaurants: Known for their quality, offering everything from quick coffee to fine dining.

When It Was Founded

Thorndon’s history dates back to the early days of Wellington’s settlement in the 1840s. Originally, it was one of the first areas to be developed, attracting the city’s elite due to its elevated position and scenic views.

Average House Price

As of the latest data, the average house price in Thorndon stands at approximately £1,200,000. This reflects the suburb’s desirability and the premium placed on its historic properties.

Average Rental

Rental prices in Thorndon are also on the higher side, with an average monthly rent for a three-bedroom house around £2,500. This is indicative of the area’s prestige and the quality of living it offers.

Male/Female Mix

The gender distribution in Thorndon is fairly balanced, with a slight tilt towards females at 52% female to 48% male, according to the latest census data.

Population and Ethnic Breakdown

Thorndon has a population of around 3,500 residents. The ethnic makeup is diverse, with:

• 65% European
• 15% Asian
• 10% Maori
• 5% Pacific Islander
• 5% Other

Transport: Walking, Riding, Driving Times from CBD

Thorndon’s location makes it exceptionally convenient:

• Walking: Approximately 15-20 minutes to the CBD.
• Cycling: About 5-10 minutes, with bike-friendly routes.
• Driving: Typically 5 minutes, depending on traffic.

Crime State

Thorndon is considered one of the safer suburbs in Wellington, with low crime rates compared to the city average. However, like any urban area, it’s not immune to crime:

• Burglaries: 15 reported incidents last year.
• Car Thefts: 8 reported cases in the same period.

Downside: What’s Broken About Thorndon?

Despite its many charms, Thorndon isn’t without its issues. One notable downside is the ongoing debate over heritage preservation versus modern development. Some residents feel that strict heritage laws limit the potential for new, affordable housing, leading to a lack of diversity in housing options. Additionally, the high cost of living here can be prohibitive for younger families or first-time buyers, skewing the demographic towards an older, wealthier population.

The Inside Word on Thorndon

While Thorndon doesn’t have the scandalous reputation of some other suburbs, there’s always a bit of local gossip. Here’s the inside scoop:

The Inside Word: Rumour has it that the preservation society in Thorndon once staged a ‘ghost sighting’ to prevent a modern development from going ahead, preserving the historic feel of the area. Whether true or not, it adds a layer of intrigue to this already fascinating suburb.

Call to Action

We invite Thorndon residents to contribute their own stats, facts, or stories about the suburb. Share your experiences or any additional information in the comments below to help paint a fuller picture of life in Thorndon.

More About Other Suburbs

Interested in exploring other Wellington suburbs? Check out our detailed guides on:

• Seatoun – Known for its beachside charm and community spirit. The Inside Word: (a) Georgina Campbell from the HERALD did not paint the zebra crossing in the tunnel for a breaking story, it was in fact a LGWM consultant who painted it to distract from the Cobham drive project, NZ most expensive Zebra crossing in history. (b) the jury is out on gossip that Seatoun is the Swinger’s suburb for WLG.
• Newtown Narratives: The Heartbeat of Wellington’s Diversity
• Miramar – Famous for its film industry connections and coastal views.

This article was brought to you by One Network Wellington Live, your go-to source for all things Wellington.