(<20 employees)
Our economic strengths
Boulder Bank, Nelson
From Nelson Tasman's largest industries to our growing sectors of high competitive advantage, there is a plethora of opportunities to do business here.
Our traditional primary industries provide 10% of jobs in our region, with goods-producing industries making up 21%. Services have the largest share at 41%, followed by high-value services at 28%.
Across these broad categories, five standout sectors give our region a competitive edge and strong potential for growth: the blue economy, research, science and technology, the visitor economy, forestry and wood processing, and food, beverage and wellness products.
Unless otherwise stated, all figures are from the Nelson-Tasman Regional Economic Briefing and Infometrics reports.
(<20 employees)
(vs NZ $81,958)
2 generations
Follow the journey of some of our Nelson Tasman businesses as they transform performance and generate success in key sectors.
Science, Tech & Research
Horticulture, Food & Wellness
Blue Economy
Thursday 26 March, 2026
Nelson Tasman’s position at the forefront of New Zealand’s blue economy is reinforced this week with the official opening of The Blue House; an innovation hub designed to accelerate sustainable ocean innovation, investment, and collaboration.
Thursday 19 March, 2026
Nelson Airport and the eight iwi of Te Tauihu marked a significant milestone this morning with a dawn blessing for a major new cultural design installation, a 22-metre-long airborne waka, within the region’s main gateway.
Friday 27 February, 2026
The 36th Annual Nelson Pine Industries Chamber of Commerce Business Awards culminated in a sold-out celebration of regional excellence, with Nelson Vets taking out the CNX Medium Business Award and Nelson Pine Supreme Award.
