Port 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.

Blue economy

The fastest growing Blue Economy in the country.

Research, science & technology

Nelson Tasman’s burgeoning Research, Science and Technology sector offers transformative growth for the local economy

Zero carbon couple kayaking MSK Abel Tasman beach sunset

Visitor sector

With three National Parks, the busiest regional airport, a vibrant city and character-filled towns, our Visitor sector is an economic driver.

Forestry & wood processing

Forestry and wood processing are significant economic drivers for Nelson Tasman.

The growing, harvesting and manufacturing of Food, Beverage and Wellness products is a significant economic driver for Nelson Tasman, with an extensive supply chain that supports many of our service businesses.