Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth - 6001 

Introduction 

Port Elizabeth, now officially known as Gqeberha, is a major seaport and the most populous city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and as a gateway to the Eastern Cape's adventure and wildlife tourism. 

Features 

Port Elizabeth boasts a variety of attractions, including blue-flag beaches, the Donkin Heritage Trail, and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum. The city is also home to the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, and the Bayworld Oceanarium. 

History 

Port Elizabeth was established in 1820 as a British settlement around Fort Frederick. It was named by Sir Rufane Donkin, the acting governor of the Cape Colony, in honor of his late wife, Elizabeth. The city became a key port and industrial center, especially after the completion of the Kimberley Railroad in 1873. In 2021, the city was officially renamed Gqeberha. 

Climate 

Port Elizabeth has a warm oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The average annual temperature is around 18.1°C. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more rain in spring and autumn. 

Property Market 

The property market in Port Elizabeth includes a variety of assets such as apartments, townhouses, houses, and Airbnb properties. The market has shown resilience with high demand for suburban homes and emerging investment opportunities in areas like Walmer and Summerstrand. The coastal properties are particularly popular for holiday homes and retirement investments. 

Suburbs 

Port Elizabeth comprises several suburbs, including Summerstrand, Walmer, Lorraine, and Motherwell. Each suburb offers a unique blend of residential and commercial properties, catering to different lifestyle needs. 

Proximity to Key Points 

Port Elizabeth is located 770 km east of Cape Town and has a well-connected transport network. The city is close to the Dawid Stuurman International Airport, the harbor, and major arterials, making it accessible to the CBD and other key points. 

Schools 

Port Elizabeth has a range of educational institutions, including public and private schools. Notable schools include Alexander Road High School, Collegiate Junior School for Girls, and Grey High School. 

Healthcare 

Healthcare facilities in Port Elizabeth include Life St George's Hospital, Livingstone Hospital, and various clinics such as Kwadwesi Clinic and Motherwell Nu 2 Clinic. These facilities provide a range of medical services to the community. 

Religious Institutes 

Port Elizabeth is home to a diverse range of religious institutions catering to various beliefs and religions. Notable places of worship include St. Augustine's Catholic Cathedral, the Port Elizabeth Central Mosque, the Hindu Seva Samaj, the Jewish Community Centre, and the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church. These institutions reflect the city's multicultural and inclusive community.