Nelson Tasman invites visitors to Feel the Warmth of local connection

With starring roles in a new tourism campaign, Nelson Tasman’s locals show why the region is such a friendly place to visit.

Inviting visitors to Feel the Warmth of Nelson Tasman, three bite-sized videos share true stories of connection between visitors and their hosts. In one, the offer to help with a holiday snap spurs a spontaneous meet-up at Mapua Wharf. In another, a friendship is forged at the Free House pub after a local mountain biker helps visiting riders find the inside line.

Visitor Destination Manager Craig Boodee says such heartwarming stories are common around the local tourism office, but he was also inspired by his own experience on an Abel Tasman beach. ‘A cheeky weka stole the lunch out of my backpack, but luckily a local tour guide saved the day by sharing their kai with me. It’s simple acts of connection like these that make holidays so much more memorable.’ 

The team at Nelson Tasman Development Agency (NRDA) is still beaming from the region’s number one ranking in this year’s visitor satisfaction survey. Although well known for its sunshine, scenery, outdoor adventure and creative energy, Craig believes it’s the friendly attitude of local people that gives the region its edge.

‘Our locals tell us they love helping visitors, and we frequently get feedback that our tourism operators have gone above and beyond, too. This generosity of spirit reflects a warm and welcoming nature that does our region proud,’ says Craig. 

This super-power will be fully charged this summer thanks to NRDA’s delivery of host training to more than 150 frontline tourism, hospitality and retail staff over the last 18 months. In addition, 20 new volunteer Visitor Ambassadors will meet and greet travellers in downtown Nelson, offering face-to-face assistance in pursuit of the perfect holiday.

With a signature line of Feel the Warmth of Nelson Tasman, the video series highlights just some of the must-do activities that make the region so attractive to visitors. Filming was perfectly timed on crystal-clear spring days showing the enduring beauty of New Zealand’s favourite holiday destination, now back in full swing after the challenging winter weather events. 

‘For the tourism sector to grow sustainability with the support of our communities, it’s vital that our region’s special character and values are reflected in how we promote ourselves to the world’, says Craig.

Produced by Nelson’s Zest Creative agency and supported by Nelson Airport, the Feel the Warmth of Nelson Tasman videos are available on YouTube and will appear on social media channels and TVNZ+.

Find out more at www.nelsontasman.nz/explore.