Mayor’s Top 10 favourite things about Newcastle

Newcastle Mayor, Afzul Rehman, is a proud Newcastillian. A town with a lot of promise and history, Newcastle is one of the most culturally diverse towns in KZN. It is also a business and social hub.

We asked Councillor Rehman to tell us about his top 10 favourite things about our town. Here is what he had to say:

1. One of the fastest growing towns in KwaZulu-Natal

A massive boost in local economy by hard working local businessmen has seen a marked growth in recent years. Coupled with some very exciting projects planned for the near future, Newcastle is on the up in a big way.

2. A place where you know almost everybody

Although growing fast, Newcastle is a town built upon solid foundations made by families who have been around for many generations. Everybody knows everybody, lending to the small town charm.

3. No traffic

The streets of Newcastle are not often backed up with large queues of motorists. With a widespread network of roadways which are under constant renovation and repair, commuting to work can be just as pleasant as a Sunday afternoon cruise.
4. Vodacom Winter Festival

The annual Winter Festival has been a don’t-miss-out event for many years, drawing people from all around to attend. It’s part of the allure and excitement.

5. Newcastle Airshow

The Airshow caters for the aviation enthusiasts. It is also a very exciting event which brings the wow-factor to Newcastle crowds, as well as aviation fans from across Northern KwaZulu-Natal and the rest of the country.

6. No load shedding

Newcastle has a proven system in place that forgoes the need to cut electricity supply to residential and business areas. A ripple relay system is in place which controls the geysers, and the large industry plants can shut down certain sections. It all comes together to ensure residents are not left in the dark.

7. Central location between Johannesburg and Durban

Situated almost exactly halfway between Johannesburg and Durban, Newcastle is a veritable hive of activity and opportunity.

8. Crime under control

Local SAPS have a firm hand over the criminals in our town.

9. Peaceful

Although far from sleepy, it is not difficult to find a quiet place to relax with your family, or take your partner on a romantic picnic.

10. Of course, it has a great Mayor!

Cllr Rehman has been dubbed the best mayor Newcastle has ever had, bringing about widespread change and improvements. Under his reign, Newcastle has received multiple provincial awards, and is growing at a phenomenal pace.