Halsua

Halsua is a small and vibrant municipality in Central Ostrobothnia with approximately 1,012 residents. Despite its small size, Halsua offers a welcoming community, beautiful nature, and essential services for both residents and visitors. The main language spoken in Halsua is Finnish, but many people also understand English.

Getting around in Halsua

Halsua is a rural municipality, and the distances between places can be long. Public transport services are limited, but bus connections to nearby municipalities such as Kaustinen and Kokkola are available. The main bus stop is located in the town centre. For bus schedules, visit https://www.matkahuolto.fi/. Public transport is limited, so residents mostly rely on personal vehicles, bicycles, or carpooling to get around. In Finland, driving is strictly regulated: a valid driving licence, vehicle inspection, and motor vehicle insurance are mandatory.

Working in Halsua

Halsua has a diverse economy, with employment opportunities in agriculture, forestry, services, and small-scale industry. There are also job opportunities in education, health care, and tourism. Many residents commute to neighbouring municipalities for work. Open job listings can be found at www.tyomarkkinatori.fi.

Education and early childhood education

Halsua provides early childhood education through municipal day care services. The municipality offers day care in a nurturing environment that supports children’s development. Cooperation between parents and early childhood educator staff is based on mutual trust, respect, and interaction.

Halsua has a comprehensive school (grades 1–9) that ensures quality education for children and young people. After comprehensive school, students can continue their education in nearby upper secondary schools or vocational institutions in neighbouring municipalities. Every immigrant child and young person has the right to attend school. 

Leisure in Halsua

Halsua is an excellent place for nature lovers. The municipality offers various outdoor activities, including hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and skiing tracks in winter. The picturesque Lake Halsuanjärvi provides a perfect setting for water activities and relaxation.

Finland’s Everyman’s Rights allow everyone to enjoy nature freely, including hiking, berry picking, and camping, as long as they respect nature and private property.

Sports and cultural activities are also available through local clubs and organisations. The adult education centre (http://www.perhonjokilaaksonkansalaisopisto.fi/) offers a range of courses and hobby activities for residents of all ages. The municipal library provides access to books, magazines, films, and recreational equipment free of charge.

Services in Halsua

Halsua has a grocery store K-Market Halsua and a pharmacy that provides over-the-counter and prescription medications. Lunch Café Kotikuluma is a cozy spot in the heart of Halsua, offering delicious homemade lunches on weekdays and freshly baked pastries with coffee. Kotikuluma is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike that also hosts small events.

The official currency of Finland is the euro (€), and the nearest ATMs are located in Veteli and Kaustinen. 

The municipal service centre at municipal office provides access to public computers, the Internet, and assistance with official matters. Additionally, the municipal office hosts a Soite digital service point, where residents can access digital health and social services, receive guidance on using online services, and get support for booking appointments or handling other official matters electronically. The library also offers free computer access.

Integration coordinator

Halsua has an integration coordinator who can assist newcomers with housing, education, and daily life matters. Appointments can be arranged in advance, and interpretation services are available if needed.

The integration coordinator can be reached Mon–Thu 8 am–3 pm at
+358 (0)40 483 8718 or email meri.kemppi@kaustisenseutukunta.fi.

If you fall ill

Halsua belongs to the Wellbeing Services County of Central Ostrobothnia, which provides social and health care services in the region. Halsua has its own health centre, where appointments with a nurse must be booked in advance. A nurse’s reception is available by appointment on even-numbered weeks on Tuesdays from 12:00 to 14:00.  Additionally, the Tunkkari health centre serves Halsua residents, providing general medical services and specialist consultations by appointment. The nearest dental services are also available in Tunkkari health centre. For more advanced medical care, the nearest hospital with 24/7 emergency services is located in Kokkola at the Central Ostrobothnia Central Hospital. Health care contact details can be found at www.soite.fi. In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in life-threatening situations.