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Towns are not legally defined in New Zealand since the 1989 local government reforms; however, historically town districts and county towns were legally defined and recognised. This list includes both legal entities such as town districts and settlements commonly referred to as towns. It excludes cities, except for the smallest one (Gisborne).<!-- Not obvious why Gisborne is not excluded. -->

List of towns

List of town districts

Town districts existed within counties and were either independent or dependent. Independent town districts required 500 residents, a density over more than one person per acre and not exceed an area of two square miles.

  • Ellerslie (1908–1938)
  • Manurewa (1915–1937)
  • New Lynn (1910–1929)

List of county towns

County towns had county town committees that were appointed by the county council and served in an advisory role on matters related to the town. County towns did not have independent governance.

  • Township of Onehunga