(<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
Wednesday 22 April, 2026
Local manufacturers are weighing up whether they can pass increased costs to customers as the fuel crisis continues, while many businesses are reviewing operations on a day-to-day basis.
Friday 17 April, 2026
Port Nelson’s marine haul-out and maintenance facility, operating as Calwell, officially opened this morning. Representatives of the Crown and Kānoa joined iwi, industry and community leaders to celebrate the event.
Thursday 09 April, 2026
Nelson Tasman’s long-term, collective advocacy has been reinforced with the release by Nelson Regional Development Agency of the 2026 Briefing for Ministers, Enabling Nelson Tasman’s Economic Recovery, marking the fifth year the region has presented its unified and evidence-based case to Central Government for priority investment as well as other forms of support.
