Live, Work, Play

It feels like you’ve hit the jackpot as you fly in over Tasman Bay, admiring the stunning natural landscapes of the Top of the South. Lush native forest, rugged mountain tops, picturesque plains and sparkling golden beaches. But in reality, that’s just the beginning.

Nelson Tasman may seem a long way away, but with over 400 flights in and out per week it’s an easy 85 mins from Auckland, 25 mins from Wellington or 50 mins from Christchurch. Once you land, you’re hooked.

You see, Nelson Tasman might be a little region, but there is no “sleepy” vibe here – the whole region is buzzing with opportunities and possibilities. It’s home to talented makers, movers and shakers and start-up businesses that now thrive on the world stage.

It’s big enough to have critical mass but small enough to enable the right sort of connections to facilitate growth and success. There is a burgeoning clever business economy building on the traditional primary base of fishing, forestry and horticulture that the region is known for, using science, research and technology to add value.

And when work’s done for the day, Nelson Tasman has one of the shortest commute times of any of New Zealand’s cities – good news for those looking to move from the big cities! Within 10 minutes, you can leave work and be mountain biking in the hills which surround the city or walking along Tahunanui Beach.

Nelson Tasman has the highest number of sunshine hours in New Zealand and is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, easy access to national parks, and wonderful walking and cycle trails. Added to that is a lively cultural scene, with markets, restaurants serving local artisan food and drink, theatres, galleries, events, and boutique shopping providing lots to do outside work hours.

There’s a real strength and diversity within the Nelson Tasman community – with more than 48 different cultures making the region their home. One in every five people living in the region was born outside of New Zealand, and they find a welcoming community here. The top of the South Island is humming, and you can feel the zest for life when talking to people in the region.

There is a lot more to Nelson Tasman than meets the eye, and it’s waiting for you to explore it.