Our economic strengths
Port 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 11% of jobs in our region, with goods-producing industries making up 22%. Services have the largest share at 41%, followed by high-value services at 26%.
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.
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 31 July, 2025
Travellers who visited Nelson Tasman on their most recent domestic trip reported the highest satisfaction levels in the country, according to Angus & Associates’ latest Domestic Visitor Satisfaction Survey (for the year ending March 2025). With an impressive overall satisfaction score of 8.9 out of 10, Nelson Tasman surpassed other popular destinations around the country.
Wednesday 30 July, 2025
The Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) is thrilled by this week’s announcement that The Spectacle running festival is one of the first two major events that will be supported by a new Air New Zealand Regional Event Sponsorship programme.
Thursday 08 May, 2025
It's been a vision more than 20 years in the making and now little spotted kiwi have returned to Nelson.
