More Info →Population Forecasts 1971-1991

This study was produced to document recent population trends and provide estimates of future growth in regional and local areas. The predictions for the Manawatū region are provided on pages 51-54. In 1971 Palmerston North had an urban population of 57,065. The Ministry of Works predicted that the city's population would be 63,000 in 1976; 70,000 in 1981; 77,500 in 1986; and 85,000 in 1991. The city's actual population growth was slower than estimated. According to census results, Palmerston North's population was 63,873 in 1976; 66,691 in 1981; 67,405 in 1986; and 70,318 in 1991.