Last updated October 2026
Linton is a suburb of Palmerston North located 11 km south-west of the city centre. It is best known as the location of Linton Military Camp, the largest New Zealand Army base and home to Headquarters 1 (NZ) Brigade.
The wider Linton area combines military housing with rural and lifestyle-block properties. Residents have access to local schools, a community library and parks while remaining within easy reach of central Palmerston North.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 1,850, down 24% since 2018
- Land area
- 102.13 km²
- Location
- 12.4 km south of central Palmerston North
- Council
- Palmerston North City Council
- Ward or local board
- Te Hirawanui General Ward (Palmerston North City Council)
- Getting there
- Road access by car to Palmerston North, plus the He Ara Kotahi shared pathway for walking and cycling
- Nearby landmarks
- Linton Military Camp, Linton Domain, Linton Camp Community Library
Who Lives in Linton
About 1,850 residents in 480 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Linton
One school sits inside the Linton boundary.
Also zoned for Linton
Show all 5 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 Linton
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 8 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 Linton
2 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 Linton
Places and businesses inside the official Linton boundary.
Places
About Linton
Linton sits on the south-western edge of Palmerston North and is defined by the presence of Linton Military Camp.
Linton sits on the south-western edge of Palmerston North and is defined by the presence of Linton Military Camp. The camp is the largest Army base in New Zealand and serves as the headquarters for 1 (NZ) Brigade, supporting a wide range of Army units and activities.
The surrounding suburb includes dedicated military housing for service families alongside civilian rural and lifestyle properties. This mix creates a distinct community character that blends military routines with everyday rural living.
Local amenities include Linton Camp School, which serves children from the camp and surrounding area, and the Linton Camp Community Library located at the corner of Bells Road and Puttick Road. Linton Domain provides open space used by the Linton Pony Club and other community groups.
The suburb remains connected to Palmerston North via the He Ara Kotahi shared pathway, which offers a direct walking and cycling route to the city, Massey University and FoodHQ. Car travel is the most common option for most residents, with public transport links also available.
Living in the Area
Linton offers a quieter residential setting than inner-city suburbs while remaining within reach of Palmerston...
Linton offers a quieter residential setting than inner-city suburbs while remaining within reach of Palmerston North amenities such as The Square, museums, parks and the hospital.
Housing stock features a high proportion of lifestyle properties alongside standard residential homes. Daily needs are met by local shops and services, with larger retail and entertainment options a short drive away in the city centre.
The community is served by its own school and library, fostering a neighbourhood focus. Public transport exists but most residents rely on private vehicles for trips beyond the immediate area.
Near Linton
Just outside Linton, within 10 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council: official information on suburbs, parks, libraries and community facilities in the Linton area.
New Zealand Defence Force – Linton Military Camp: details on the Army base, its role and facilities.
Wikipedia – Linton, New Zealand: overview of the suburb including demographics and location details (citing primary sources).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Linton located?
Linton is a suburb 11 km south-west of Palmerston North city centre.
What is Linton best known for?
Linton is home to Linton Military Camp, the largest New Zealand Army base.
What housing is available in Linton?
The area features a mix of military housing, standard residential properties and lifestyle blocks.
Are there schools and libraries nearby?
Yes, Linton Camp School and the Linton Camp Community Library serve the local community.
How long does it take to drive to central Palmerston North?
The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on traffic and exact starting point.
Is there walking or cycling access to the city?
The He Ara Kotahi shared pathway provides a direct route for walkers and cyclists from Linton to Palmerston North.
What parks or recreational spaces are available?
Linton Domain offers open space and is used by the Linton Pony Club and community groups.
Is Linton suitable for families?
Yes, the suburb has its own school, library and community facilities alongside a quieter residential setting.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Explore Palmerston North only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Linton is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.