blurry placeholderPort Nelson Haulashore Boat   Nelson Regional Development Agency   by Tim Cuff

Our economic strengths

Boulder Bank, Nelson

Industries full of opportunities

From Nelson Tasman's largest industries to our growing sectors of high competitive advantage, there is a plethora of opportunities to do business here.

Diverse industries, united by opportunity

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.

Nelson Tasman's economy at a glance

Unless otherwise stated, all figures are from the Nelson-Tasman Regional Economic Briefing and Infometrics reports.

114,200

Population

$7.6bn

Size of economy

14,703

Number of businesses

96.5%

Proportion of small businesses

(<20 employees)

$71,004

Mean earnings

(vs NZ $81,958)

$127,049

GDP per filled job

$1.7bn

Productivity gap

Our aim is to double productivity within

2 generations

Sector success stories

Follow the journey of some of our Nelson Tasman businesses as they transform performance and generate success in key sectors.

blurry placeholderSnapCore

SnapCore

Science, Tech & Research

blurry placeholderChia Sisters

Chia Sisters

Horticulture, Food & Wellness

Latest news from Nelson Tasman

blurry placeholderSwap One celebrates first year success and return for Year Two

Swap One celebrates first year success and return for Year Two

Thursday 09 July, 2026

More than 14,000 low-carbon trips, 110,000 kilometres travelled without a petrol or diesel car, and 25 tonnes of carbon emissions avoided – these are just some of the achievements celebrated at the recent Swap One Year One Prizegiving.

blurry placeholderSonar Flare to headline the New Zealand Cider Festival 2026

Sonar Flare to headline the New Zealand Cider Festival 2026

Tuesday 07 July, 2026

The New Zealand Cider Festival returns to Founders Heritage Park on Saturday 14 November, bringing together the very best of New Zealand cider, live music, local food, and family-friendly entertainment for a day-long celebration in the heart of Whakatū Nelson.

blurry placeholderAirport invests in solar-powered covered walkway

Airport invests in solar-powered covered walkway

Wednesday 01 July, 2026

Nelson Airport is set to begin construction of a new covered walkway that will boost passenger comfort and reduce emissions.