Rangiora

Rangiora is a bustling town just 35 minutes from Christchurch city. With almost 20,000 residents, Rangiora is the population centre of North Canterbury. It has a vibrant retail centre, a thriving business scene and a passionate community.

The population of Rangiora has grown and diversified rapidly over the last decade which has led to a growth in new businesses and housing development.

Retail and hospitality are some of the largest employers in Rangiora, alongside manufacturing, professional services, education, health and local government.

With a strong labour market, commercial land availability, excellent schooling options, abundant recreation opportunities and a short 20-minute drive to New Zealand’s second largest city, Rangiora offers the ideal work/lifestyle balance.

Quick Facts about Rangiora’s Growth & Economy

Rangiora ranks among the top urban areas in New Zealand in terms of growth and stands out as a major growth hub in Canterbury.

The estimated 2025 Rangiora-Ashley ward population is 27,200 with Rangiora town housing 19,300 people. Rangiora is growing at a rate of 2.9% which is notably strong for a town of its size.
Forecasts predict that Rangiora’s population could rise by ~36% by 2053, translating to nearly 3000 new homes.
Rangiora is the local service centre for 60% of the district population. By 2031 Rangiora is forecast to provide goods and services for 50,000 people.
Business numbers increased by 37% in last 10 years and number of employees by 26%.
The customer catchment stretches north to Kaikoura and Hurunui District, south to Christchurch and Selwyn District.
Most Rangiora employees work in retail/wholesale sector. The highest number of business units represent the professional services sector
Rangiora is 26 minutes away from Christchurch International Airport

Click here for more information regarding living in Rangiora

Resources for Doing Business in Rangiora

Reports & Useful Websites

Visit Waimakariri - Rangiora Page Rangiora Town Centre Strategy Blueprint to 2030+ Rangiora & the Wider Waimakariri Economic & Business Overview 2015 Rangiora Town Centre Strategy (historic but still holds great information) Business Reports Waimakariri Long Term Plan 2024-2034

Networking & Support

Waimakariri District Council - Taking Care of Business Business friendly council team. Rangiora Promotions Rangiora town promotion association. The Networkers Business networking group. BNI Rangiora Business networking aimed at generating referrals. ENC Networking Events

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Data and demographics for the whole Waimakariri District.

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Villages and Rural Waimakariri

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Business Resources

A library of resources to help businesses thrive

Data

Other data sources for North Canterbury, Canterbury and New Zealand

Visit Waimakariri

Our local visitor attraction agency

This page is a brief overview of the business demographics and data for Rangiora. Last updated in February 2026.