OVERVIEW

Contact Details

Postal: PO Box 5, Port Shepstone, 4240
Physical: 10 Connor Street, Port Shepstone
Tel: 039 688 2000
Fax: 039 682 0327
Web: www.hcm.gov.za

Geography, History and Economy

Area: 839km²

Description: Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality (previously Hibiscus Coast Local Municipality) has its administrative seat in Port Shepstone and covers an area of approximately 90km of coastline comprising 21 beaches, and extends 30km inland, covering a vast, rural area under the leadership of six tribal authorities. It is the most concentrated economic hub within the Ugu District Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal province.

Beaches of world-class quality are to be found along the entire seaboard, with Marina, Trafalgar, Lucien, Southport, Umzumbe and Ramsgate beaches recognised as full Blue Flag beaches. The coastline is dotted with numerous small towns, many of which serve as seasonal recreational hubs in areas such as Port Shepstone, Umtamvuna/Port Edward, Margate, Hibberdene and Impenjati/Southbroom.

Cities/Towns: Hibberdene, Margate, Port Edward, Port Shepstone, Southbroom

Main Economic Sectors: Finance and business services (21.5%), wholesale and retail (18.7%), general government services (13.3%), manufacturing (12.3%), agriculture and forestry (8.9%), transport and communication (8.9%)