Selwyn Heights is a residential suburb in the northern part of Rotorua, covering 0.89 square kilometres with an estimated population of approximately 1,200 as of June 2024. The suburb takes its name from John Richardson Selwyn, a 19th-century Bishop of Melanesia with New Zealand connections. Selwyn Heights is a compact suburb positioned north of the Rotorua CBD, with residential streets set on elevated ground that gives the suburb its “Heights” designation. Two schools serve the area: Selwyn School and Kea Street Specialist School.
Practical Information
| Location | Northern Rotorua, north of the CBD |
| Area | 0.89 km² |
| Population | Approximately 1,200 (June 2024 estimate) |
| Character | Compact residential suburb on elevated ground |
| Schools | Selwyn School (state primary, Years 1–6, roll 319); Kea Street Specialist School |
The Suburb
Selwyn Heights sits in the northern residential belt of Rotorua, on ground elevated above the lake flats and central city. The suburb’s elevated position gives some streets partial views toward Lake Rotorua and the surrounding volcanic ranges. The residential character is primarily mid-20th century housing stock, with a mix of property sizes and styles typical of Rotorua’s established northern suburbs.
Kea Street Specialist School, located in Selwyn Heights, is a specialist school serving students with particular learning needs — an unusual distinction for a Rotorua suburb of this size, and a facility that draws students from across the broader Rotorua district. Selwyn School is the local state primary for Years 1–6, with a roll of 319 students.
Location and Surroundings
Selwyn Heights is positioned in northern Rotorua, between the central commercial area and the SH5 tourism corridor that runs toward Ngongotahā and Fairy Springs. The suburb’s northern Rotorua location gives residents convenient access to the lake’s northern edges, the Ngongotahā village, and the SH5 facilities — including Rainbow Springs Nature Park and the Skyline Gondola base — without being as far from the city centre as the Ngongotahā village itself. The elevated ground that defines the suburb separates it from the flat lake fringe to the east and gives it a more open aspect than the lower-lying suburbs closer to the CBD.
The suburb is compact enough that most daily amenities are a short drive from any part of Selwyn Heights. Rotorua’s main commercial areas, schools, and hospital are all within easy reach, and the suburb’s northern position means access to SH5 is straightforward for residents commuting toward Ngongotahā or Hamilton.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Selwyn Heights — geographic and demographic overview of the suburb.
OneRoof — Selwyn Heights Suburb Profile — property market data for the suburb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Selwyn Heights in Rotorua?
In the northern part of Rotorua, north of the CBD on elevated ground, between the central city and the SH5 corridor toward Ngongotahā and Fairy Springs.
What schools are in Selwyn Heights?
Selwyn School (state primary, Years 1–6, roll 319) and Kea Street Specialist School, which serves students with particular learning needs from across the Rotorua district.
How large is Selwyn Heights?
0.89 km² with an estimated population of approximately 1,200 — a compact suburban community in northern Rotorua.
What is Selwyn Heights named after?
The suburb takes its name from John Richardson Selwyn, a 19th-century Bishop of Melanesia who had New Zealand connections.
Is Selwyn Heights close to SH5?
Yes — the suburb’s northern Rotorua location gives easy access to SH5 (Fairy Springs Road), the main route toward Ngongotahā, Rainbow Springs, and the Skyline Gondola base.
Selwyn Heights is in northern Rotorua. See the Skyline Nature Walk guide for the gondola attraction nearby on SH5, and the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for outdoor options across the district.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
