University District

The University district is obviously named after Vancouver Island University which is a University built up on the hill and offers some spectacular views. There is easy access from the Highway 19 to this area as from downtown. There is a mix of new and older housing, along with condos and townhomes. This area is often sought after for investment properties as there is not a lot of housing associated with V.I.U. therefore a great market of students looking for housing. Above the Parkway is an area called College heights and being that it is above the Parkway there are some fantastic views of downtown and the Ocean. The bonus of this view is you see the lights of Nanaimo in the evenings . Westwood Lake which is a manmade lake that offers 6 kms of running/ walking trail around it and a variety of mountain biking and hiking trails leading to Mount Benson. Westwood Lake is a popular recreational venue year round. The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is located in this district along with the Nanaimo Ice Arena that is relatively new and houses 2 ice rinks. In addition Buttertubs Marsh which is a wildlife sanctuary has a 2 km loop trail that is well visited. The Parkway trail connects up to VIU from North and South of the city so great biking, walking access is available to and from this area.

Schools:

  • Fairview Elementary – 205 Howard Ave, (250) 753-3418
  • Georgia Ave., Elementary – 625 Georgia Ave., (250) 753-1044
  • Nanaimo District Secondary School – 355 Wakesiah Ave., (250) 740-2000
  • John Barsby Secondary – 550 7th St., (250) 753-8211
  • Mountain View Elementary School – 2480 East Wellington Road., (250) 753-2831