Welcome to New Westminster, a vibrant and diverse city in the heart of the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. With a rich history and vibrant cultural life, New Westminster is a great place to explore. Whether it's taking in the fantastic architecture, the many parks and trails, or sampling some of the excellent restaurants, New Westminster is sure to offer something for everyone. As a proud member of the Royal City, you can experience a proud community full of friendly faces and welcoming locals. Read on and learn more about the history, sightseeing opportunities, and all the exciting things to do in New Westminster.
Getting to Know New Westminster
New Westminster is located in the Pacific time zone and is part of the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia. It has a population of 71,948, the majority of which reside in the city centre and surrounding residential areas. The official languages spoken in New Westminster is English and Punjabi.
The estimated population of the surrounding area is more than 350,000 people and the city is known for its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere. The predominant cultural backgrounds in New Westminster are British, Irish, Dutch, German, French and Scottish.
The local currency is Canadian dollars and the banking institution of choice is the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. In New Westminster, Canadians enjoy a higher standard of living than the rest of the country due to the city's proximity to Vancouver, the presence of many large companies, the growth of its transportation infrastructure and the low unemployment rate.
Climate and Weather
New Westminster is situated in British Columbia on the south side of the Fraser River and is known for its mild climate. The city experiences warm and dry summers and mild, wet winters with snow occasionally in December and January. Temperatures in New Westminster can range from -5° Celsius in the winter to a pleasant 28° Celsius in the summer.
Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year with the wettest months being December to February. On average, the city receives about 1350 mm of rain and two to three snow days a year. Despite the wet weather, there is usually still plenty of sunshine.
The ocean winds also contribute to the mild climate and prevent temperatures from dropping too low in the winter months. This makes New Westminster one of the few cities in Canada with a temperate climate, allowing for all types of outdoor activities year round.
Touring New Westminster: Airport and Transportation
There are currently no airports in New Westminster. The closest airport to New Westminster is the Vancouver International Airport, located approximately 25 km away.
To get from the Vancouver International Airport to downtown New Westminster, you can take a public bus or train, which cost approximately 10-15 CAD. You can also take a taxi, which will cost approximately 45-50 CAD.
No, there is no currency exchange at any of the airports in New Westminster.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of New Westminster
- New Westminster is the oldest city in western Canada, having been founded in 1859 by the Royal Engineers. It has a rich cultural heritage and is home to a vibrant community of artists, entrepreneurs, and interesting historical sites.
- Tourists can visit the historic Columbia Street, which is filled with quaint boutiques and restaurants, reflecting the city's diverse cultural history.
- The New Westminster Museum and Archives have a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of the city, from its beginnings as a colonial settlement to its modern-day emergence as a thriving urban centre
Dubai
Cape Town
Male
London
Windhoek
Honolulu
Paris
Seoul
Ottawa
Zanzibar
Harare