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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Population, Etc
Population, Etc.
No better test of the progress of the district can be applied than a comparison of the census returns extending over a considerable period. In the month of February, 1871, the total population of the provincial district, exclusive of Maoris, was 24,001. At the last census in April, 1891, this had increased to 97,725, being upwards of 400 per cent, increase in the period. Of these, 95,410 were British; 58,125 being born in New Zealand, 20,810 in England, 5,425 in Scotland, 5,703 in Ireland, and 2,516 in Australia. The aliens numbered only 2,315, including 308 Chinese. Halfcastes included in the total, numbered 261. At each succeeding census period from 1871 to 1891 there has been a considerable increase in the population of the district. The period 1874 to 1878 exhibited the largest addition, the gain being 21,279, or 71.43 per cent, of increase for the period. During the last period, 20,189 were added, or 26.04 per cent, on the previous return. Even at this rate of progress the population should be doubled in about sixteen years. It may be remarked here that the estimated population of the provincial district as made up to December 31st, 1893, was 105,684. The proportion of females to each 100 males in 1871 was 82£10, and in 1891 it had increased to 86£59. The Maori population of the district at last census was 3,957, of which 2,186 were males, and 1,776 females. Every county of the district has some representatives of the native race resident within its borders, the largest numbers being in the Wanganui and Horowhenua coun[unclear: tie]s. The number of dwellings, 4,779, in 1871, had increased in twenty years to 17,544, showing a most satisfactory rate of progress.