Our place
Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui
Centre of New Zealand, Nelson
Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui
In Te Reo Māori, 'tau' is a multifaceted word and concept that means to be at peace, settled and calm. It also means to arrive at a destination.
'Mauritau' is also a way to encapsulate how a person can land in a state of peaceful energy.
We hope people reach this state. Whether personally or professionally. Whilst on a trip or once back home.
Because life's about balance... Not simply "work/life balance" but a greater sense of contentment not escape, centering not flight.
And the best place to find balance is in a place where te taiao inspires healing, poeple care deeply, living is simple and experiences bring joy.
We hope you'll find a sense of balance here, and reach your state of tau. In Te Tauihu, Nelson Tasman.
Here in Nelson Tasman, a unique wairua courses through the whenua and wai. Creating a special region with a spirited and elemental mauri that’s palpable to those who may experience it.
A way to feel at one with nature and all that lives or grows here. To learn about that which is tapu – sacred and noa– common, for a unique experience with profound effect.
Delve into te taiao – our stunning natural world. Home to not one but three national parks, where our mountains, waters, lands, minerals and flora create a dramatically diverse ecology.
Traverse golden bays and turquoise waters, alpine valleys and glacial lakes, inland farmlands and coastal tracks, fresh water springs and lush forests – amidst consistently sunny skies. It’s an otherworld oasis to wholeheartedly experience nature.
With stunning seaside bays, quaint local towns, handy central city and feel-good community charm — Nelson Tasman draws in people from around the world who share a love for authentic, real experiences.
Where visitors rub shoulders with locals (not stand out, or stay out on their own) and where foodies, artists and entrepreneurs are all drawn for the down to earth vibes within tasteful, inspirational and casual settings.
Located at the top of the South Island, our region has always been a centralised rendezvous point. As a gateway between the Capital and broader South Island, we're perfect for local living, short stays or business trips.
With convenient port, airport and roads in and out, travelling here’s a breeze but also feels a world away once here. Our compact size also ensures easy exploration all within an approximate one hour radius.
Escape life’s stresses or monotony with the perfect blend of indulgence, unwind, and adventure. Nature lovers explore superb beaches, bays, and national parks. Food enthusiasts savor fresh fare at top-notch cafés, fine dining spots, made using world-class produce sourced direct from our sea and soil.
Art enthusiasts get lost in the plethora of local markets and galleries. And those interested in culture learn unique history, perspectives and practices from Tangata Whenua – our indigenous Māori tribes at sites of significance.
The close proximity to lush land and well-stocked sea creates spectacular inspiration and responsibility for community and commerce here. Our open spaces inspire open minds, so you’ll see our region is home to amazing talent – from world-class growers and harvesters, artists and scientists, hospitality and tourism vendors, digital nomads and brave entrepreneurs.
All proud local owners, workers and sectors who pack a heavy punch when delivering phenomenal products and services to the world.
Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) are privileged to be brand custodians for the Nelson Tasman Place Brand. We’re here to help position and inspire people to understand what makes our region special. In ways that proudly represent our Nelson Tasman region.
We acknowledge mana whenua of this region – Ngāti Kuia, Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Apa Ki te Rā Tō, Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Tama ki Te Tau Ihu and Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui.