Pietermaritzburg is steeped in the history of KwaZulu-Natal, and is considered an important industrial and commercial hub. Nestled among the countryside of the Natal Midlands, it presents as a lush green environment, close to some of the country’s private schools for families, and yet peaceful enough for retirees. And being just 45 minutes from the Durban Port and International Airport, makes it a popular choice for business people who desire calming weekends away from the busier centres.
Beyond its historic fame, it is also known for its hosting of the Comrades Marathon, which is an up run if the race starts in Durban, or a down race every alternate year. It also hosts the Duzi Canoe Marathon and the Midmar Mile, the Royal Agricultural Show, and Cars in the Park events.
Its climate is considered sub-tropical, with dry winters. The average yearly temperature is 22 degrees centigrade, and the region receives lots of rain.
Suburbs in Pietermaritzburg
The most popular suburbs include:
- Ashburton
- Athlone
- Belfort Estate
- Bisley
- Blackridge
- Bombay Heights
- Boughton
- Camperdown
- Chase Valley
- Clarendon
- Cleland
- Epworth
- Glenwood
- Hayfields
- Lincoln Meade
- Montrose
- Northdale
- Pelham
- Pietermartizburg Central
- Scottsville
- Wembley
- Wensleydale
- Westgate
- Willowton
- Woodlands
Retail
A number of retail centres are in existence, like the Liberty Midlands Mall, the largest in the region. Also The Quarry, Sidewalk, 711, Sidewalk, Victoria, and Wembley Centres, with the Victoria Square and Cascades Lifestyle Centres are popular among residents.
Schools and education
There are more than 40 educational facilities catering for all ages. Among the most prestigious private schools are the likes of Hilton College, Cornwall Prep, and Michaelhouse, yet the public schools are always considered excellent, such as Pietermartizburg Girls High, Clifton Preparatory School, and Forest Hill.
Hubs of interest
If you have a career in the industrial sector, or want to start a business in the region, there are business incentives, including savings on rates, electricity, building plans, refuse removal among others. Its major economic activities include aluminium, textiles, wood products, timber, beef, sugarcane, and other agri products.
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