Last updated June 2026
Highfield is a residential suburb in southern Timaru, covering 2.36 square kilometres with an estimated population of 3,690 as of June 2025. It ranks as the third largest suburb in Timaru by housing stock. Most homes date from the 1960s expansion, creating a settled, established character with tree-lined streets and generous sections. The suburb sits on elevated ground that offers some properties views toward the coast and across the Canterbury plains. Highfield Village Mall provides convenient local shopping including a New World supermarket.
Practical Information
| Location | Southern Timaru |
| Area | 2.36 km² |
| Population | 3,690 (June 2025 est.) |
| Supermarket | New World at Highfield Village Mall, 145 Wai-Iti Road |
| Schools | Highfield School (years 1–8), Craighead Diocesan School (years 7–13, girls) |
About Highfield
Highfield lies within the Timaru urban area in South Canterbury. Its mid-20th-century street layout features wide roads typical of suburban planning from that era. The suburb borders Glenwood to the west and connects easily to central Timaru.
Highfield Village Mall serves as the main retail hub for the southern part of the city, anchored by the New World supermarket. Residents appreciate the mix of detached family homes on established sections.
Some properties benefit from the suburb’s slightly elevated position, providing coastal outlooks and views across the plains toward the Hunter Hills. The area maintains a quiet, family-oriented atmosphere.
Schools
Highfield School is a coeducational full primary school serving years 1 to 8. It opened in 1962 and currently has a roll of around 308 students.
Craighead Diocesan School on Cranmer Street is a state-integrated Anglican girls’ day and boarding school for years 7 to 13. Founded in 1911, it became an Anglican Church school in 1926 and has a current roll of approximately 414 students. Both schools sit within or on the edge of the suburb.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Highfield, New Zealand: Suburb overview including population statistics, demographics and education details.
Highfield School: Official site with current information for the local primary school.
Craighead Diocesan School: School website with details on programmes and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Highfield located in Timaru?
Highfield is a southern suburb of Timaru covering 2.36 square kilometres.
What is the population of Highfield?
The estimated population is 3,690 as of June 2025.
Is there a supermarket in Highfield?
Yes, New World Timaru operates at Highfield Village Mall on Wai-Iti Road.
What schools are in Highfield?
Highfield School (coeducational primary, years 1–8) and Craighead Diocesan School (girls’ secondary, years 7–13).
When was Highfield School established?
Highfield School opened in 1962.
When was Craighead Diocesan School founded?
Craighead Diocesan School was established in 1911.
What type of housing predominates in Highfield?
The majority of homes were built in the 1960s, giving the suburb a settled character.
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