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Darfield
Unlike many rural settlements across the country, Darfield’s population has increased slowly over recent years to an estimated population of 3,150 (as at June 2023), and this is thanks to growth in the local economy, its strong sense of community, and being within commuting distance of Christchurch, bolstered by migration from Christchurch to surrounding areas following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
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The Township Under the Nor'west Arch
Darfield is often called "The township under the nor'west arch" in reference to a characteristic weather phenomenon that often creates an arch of cloud in an otherwise clear sky to the west of the township. This is caused by the condensation of water particles channelled upwards over the Southern Alps.
A Bit of History
The name was given by John Jebson after a place in Yorkshire, England. The original name means Field frequented by deer. It was first known as White Cliffs Junction, then Horndon Junction, which was changed in 1879 owing to confusion with Hornby Junction. The land was converted into a pastoral landscape in the 1850s by the Deans brothers for the cattle station Homebush. Then the railways brought settlers and the beginnings of a town.
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Darfield was close to the centre of the 7.1 magnitude earthquake of 4 September 2010, with the Greendale Fault lying just south of the town. There was significant damage to buildings in the area, but thankfully no loss of life.