The settlement began in 1843 as Pitfure, but the name was changed to Wakefield a short time later.

It may have been named after the birthplace of one of its original settlers, who was from Wakefield in Yorkshire.

It may have also been named after Captain Arthur Wakefield, who led the expedition that first established Nelson City and Province.

[5][6] Wakefield comes under the responsibility of the Tasman District Council, which has its offices in the nearby town of Richmond.

[8] The Wakefield statistical area covers 9.92 km2 (3.83 sq mi).

The percentage of people born overseas was 16.5, compared with 27.1% nationally.

Although some people chose not to answer the census's question about religious affiliation, 60.7% had no religion, 28.9% were Christian, 0.1% had Māori religious beliefs, 0.1% were Hindu, 0.1% were Muslim, 0.1% were Buddhist and 2.2% had other religions.

The percentage of people born overseas was 14.7, compared with 27.1% nationally.