Last updated October 2026
Fitzherbert (also known as Summerhill) is a residential suburb in the south of Palmerston North, New Zealand. It lies south of the Manawatū River and is bordered by Massey University to the west and northwest.
The suburb features a mix of housing styles and benefits from proximity to educational and research facilities. It offers residents convenient access to the central city via bridges and pathways, including the He Ara Kotahi shared bridge and path. Fitzherbert suits those seeking suburban living with strong connections to the university and river corridor.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 4,310, up 30% since 2018
- Land area
- 6.80 km²
- Location
- 5.1 km south-east of central Palmerston North
- Council
- Palmerston North City Council
- Ward or local board
- Te Hirawanui General Ward (Palmerston North City Council)
- Getting there
- Fitzherbert Bridge, and the He Ara Kotahi bridge and shared pathway to the city
- Nearby landmarks
- Massey University, He Ara Kotahi bridge, Food HQ
Who Lives in Fitzherbert
About 4,310 residents in 1,450 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Fitzherbert
There is no school inside the Fitzherbert boundary, but these schools have enrolment zones that cover some or all of it.
Zoned for Fitzherbert
Show all 8 zoned schools
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 Fitzherbert
by 7.30am on collection day
Source: Palmerston North City Council collection areas. Streets near a suburb edge can differ, so check the council lookup if unsure.
Safety and Hazards
Lower than the Palmerston North average for the number of people who live here. Another 20 reports were at shops and businesses.
Sources: NZ Police victimisation data, CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026 (crimes inside homes are only published for burglary).
Buses from Fitzherbert
20 bus stops inside the suburb.
Source: Horizons Regional Council timetable data. Typical weekday daytime frequency.
Handy Facilities
Source: Palmerston North City Council park toilets; NZTA EVRoam charging sites.
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 Fitzherbert
Places and businesses inside the official Fitzherbert boundary.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
See all businesses in Fitzherbert
About Fitzherbert
Fitzherbert developed from the Tiritea Estate established by Sir James Prendergast in 1871.
Fitzherbert developed from the Tiritea Estate established by Sir James Prendergast in 1871. In 1926, adjacent land was sold to the Palmerston North Borough Council, leading to the founding of Massey Agricultural College, which later became Massey University. The suburb sits adjacent to the university campus and includes areas with views toward the Manawatū River.
Recent census data shows steady growth, with a diverse population including significant numbers of residents born overseas. Housing ranges from established properties to newer developments, reflecting its evolution as a family-oriented residential area.
Access to central Palmerston North is provided by road bridges and the He Ara Kotahi shared pathway and bridge, which connects the suburb to the city, Massey University, and Linton. The pathway supports walking and cycling and includes features such as an outdoor gym near the bridge.
History and Development
Fitzherbert originated from large rural holdings in the late 19th century.
Fitzherbert originated from large rural holdings in the late 19th century. The establishment of the agricultural college in the 1920s transformed the area, linking it permanently to education and research. Food HQ, established in 1971 north of the Massey campus, further strengthened the suburb’s connection to agricultural science and innovation.
Today the suburb balances residential growth with its proximity to university facilities and the river corridor. Local reserves and pathways support recreation within the neighbourhood.
Near Fitzherbert
Just outside Fitzherbert, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia: Fitzherbert: Overview of the suburb including demographics and history with references to primary sources.
Palmerston North City Council: Official information on suburbs, parks, pathways and local facilities.
Manawatū Heritage: Historical records and images related to Fitzherbert and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Fitzherbert located?
Fitzherbert is a suburb south of the Manawatū River in Palmerston North, adjacent to Massey University.
What is Fitzherbert also known as?
It is also known as Summerhill.
How do residents access central Palmerston North?
Access is via road bridges including the Fitzherbert Bridge and the He Ara Kotahi shared pathway and bridge for walking and cycling.
Is Fitzherbert suitable for families?
Yes, it offers residential housing, proximity to schools, and access to university and city amenities.
What historical connection does the suburb have?
It developed from 19th-century estates and is closely linked to the founding of Massey University.
Are there recreational facilities nearby?
The He Ara Kotahi pathway provides walking, cycling and an outdoor gym; local reserves support neighbourhood recreation.
What is the postcode for Fitzherbert?
The postcode is 4410.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Explore Palmerston North only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Fitzherbert is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.