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Working here

TOAD Hall

There’s a lot of work being done in Nelson Tasman.

This is a dynamic region, bustling with activity across the economic spectrum – from Blue Economy start-ups, to large-scale horticultural primary production, from Artificial Intelligence research to working artists and artisans – there’s a lot of work being done in Nelson Tasman.

Career stories

Meet some people who have moved to Nelson Tasman to enjoy life-changing working opportunities.

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Javier Atalah

Marine Ecologist

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Alan Gray

Urban Designer

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Tim Gonzalez

Technology Manager

Sectors full of opportunity

In Nelson Tasman, the land and sea shapes our way of life. Our regional economy, built from traditional primary sectors now encompasses nationally and internationally recognised strengths in the Blue Economy, Food Beverage and Wellness products, Forestry and Wood Processing and the Visitor Economy, but also in Research Science and Technology.  Nelson Tasman is home to a wide range of science, technology, engineering and ICT companies, and our economy is more diverse than most regions of New Zealand. 

Knowledge economy centre
Nelson Tasman has a rich legacy of scientific and intellectual capital, and our Knowledge Economy is burgeoning. We have the highest number of scientists per capita of any New Zealand region, leaders such as Cawthron Institute, NIWA and Plant & Food Research which offer varied roles in science and research, and many smaller businesses providing niche goods and services. 

Diverse employment opportunities
Alongside the creativity of our tech and innovation communities, our Arts sector is world renowned, and you will find a strong network of artisans and creatives. Health, education, and professional services are also large employers in our region. With significant construction projects currently underway and in development the outlook for skilled trades is bright, and there is always high demand for workers in retail and hospitality. 

Larger employers
Larger employers in Nelson Tasman offer professional roles without the hassles of big city life. And as more of our small businesses grow, they are regularly looking for staff with corporate experience to help them reach their goals.  

Anywhere businesses
Nelson Tasman attracts companies who could locate their business anywhere, but choose to take advantage of our connectivity, lifestyle and the accessibility of the outdoors. 

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Connect with a crew

Fast-track your connections in your new community. There’s a number of collectives and networks to meet new people and potential colleagues and partners.
Find out more

Shared work spaces

Maybe you’re gigging it, working up a breakthrough new business, or just don’t need a whole lot of space to do your thing, have a look around one of these shared working spaces.

https://www.mahitahicolab.nz/

https://www.bridgestreet.nz/

Starting out in Nelson Tasman

Nelson Tasman is a great place to start your career. LifeLab is a local Nelson Tasman specific careers organisation for young people, their whānau, and careers advisors. It’s also useful for young people from outside the region considering a move here.

https://lifelab.nz/

Pick your path with seasonal work

Nelson Tasman requires heaps of seasonal workers, across many industries. It’s not just picking fruit around here – you could be out on the high seas, down on the farm, deep in the forest, or right out the front in hospitality.

If you’re looking for temporary work, that might even turn into a career, check this out.

https://www.pickyourpath.nz/