RICHARDSBAY

The City of uMhlathuze assumed city status on 21 August 2001.  The name uMhlathuze is derived from the uMhlathuzeRiverthat meanders through the municipal area and unifies the towns, suburbs and traditional areas symbolically.

The population is approximately 300,000, uMhlathuze is situated 180 kmn North East of Durbanon the coast.

RichardsBay is centrally situated and serves as a central base for visitors wanting to experience the cultural and historical heritage when exploring Zululand .

Zululandis rich in diversity and is the ideal holiday destination where nature lovers can explore the internationally acclaimed game reserves and visit the spectacular wetlands.  Outdoor and sporting enthusiasts can take advantage of the sub-tropical climate and endless beaches and cultural heritage seekers can visit Zulu cultural villages, museums and markets.

ABOUT RICHARDSBAY

It is to be considered the industrial and tourism centre of the area and occupies 37% of the total 796 sq/km municipal area

Richards Bay began its existence as a small fishing town and flourished with the development of the Port of Richards Bay, the country’s deepest and largest port in 1976,  It has been earmarketed by the Government as one of the country’s growth and development points, and through the industria Development Zone iniative will attract a great deal of investment.   RichardsBayis already home to some of the country’s most productive and lucrative industries.

HOW TO GET THERE:   

BY AIR:  EmpangeniAirport and RichardsBayAirport  -   SA Express

Tel:   035 786 0301 conduct daily flights between Johannesburg and RichardsBay.

BY BUS:  The Greyhound Bus:   035 792 1283 runs between Richards Bay & Empangeni and most major centres.

BY SEA:  RichardsBayis the first port of call with world-class facilities for vessels.  The Zululand Yacht Club   035 788 0256 and the Tuzi Gazi Moorings 035-788 0031 cater for international fraternity.

BY ROAD: The two main feeder roads to RichardsBay are the N2 highway from Durban(South) and Pongola (North) and the R34 from Vryheid & Melmoth (West)

CLIMATE:

Conditions are typically sub-tropical to tropical.  The average daily temperature in summer is 28 degrees  and winter 24 degrees C .  The humidity levels tend to e very high and the annual rainfall is 1200mm.

Weather reports:  Local:  082 231 1605,

Surf conditions                  082 231 1610

Ski Boat & Sailing             082 231 1607

MALARIA PREVENTION

(Take special care)  80 kms North of RichardsBay towards St Lucia

Use anti-malaria drugs for prevention.