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 placeholderNelson Tasman secures place in four major international tourism campaigns

Nelson Tasman secures place in four major international tourism campaigns

Wednesday 09 September, 2026

Nelson Tasman will feature in four of six major tourism initiatives backed by the Government’s latest $5 million Regional Tourism Marketing Boost Fund (Round 3), putting the region in front of more potential visitors in key international markets.

blurry placeholderNew Nelson Arts Hub a home for creativity in the heart of the city

New Nelson Arts Hub a home for creativity in the heart of the city

Friday 07 August, 2026

A new chapter for Whakatū Nelson's creative community begins today with the official opening of the Nelson Arts Hub at Millers Acre, Tāwera. &nbsp;

blurry placeholderNelson Tasman alliance presents compelling business case to support New Zealand’s future defence needs, utilising the region’s significant existing infrastructure and capabilities

Nelson Tasman alliance presents compelling business case to support New Zealand’s future defence needs, utilising the region’s significant existing infrastructure and capabilities

Tuesday 28 July, 2026

An industry led, public-private sector alliance is working together to showcase Nelson Tasman's strong capabilities and united commitment to support industry opportunities and the growth and resilience of the New Zealand Defence Force, particularly the New Zealand Navy.