In December 1887, the House of Representatives voted to reduce its membership from general electorates from 91 to 70.
In addition, three-member electorates were introduced in the four main centres.
In the 1890 election, polling booths were in Halswell, Tai Tapu, Templeton, Addington, Prebbleton and Fendalton.
[3] Other settlements that fell within the electorate's boundaries were Yaldhurst, Islington, Oaklands, Ladbrooks, and Lincoln.
[4] The Halswell electorate was formed for the 1890 election, which determined the composition of the 11th Parliament.