(<20 employees)
Our economic strengths
Boulder Bank, Nelson
From Nelson Tasman's largest industries to our growing sectors of high competitive advantage, there is a plethora of opportunities to do business here.
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.
Unless otherwise stated, all figures are from the Nelson-Tasman Regional Economic Briefing and Infometrics reports.
(<20 employees)
(vs NZ $81,958)
2 generations
Follow the journey of some of our Nelson Tasman businesses as they transform performance and generate success in key sectors.
Science, Tech & Research
Horticulture, Food & Wellness
Blue Economy
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.
Friday 24 July, 2026
Nelson Tasman's growing reputation as the centre of New Zealand's blue economy has received another significant vote of confidence, with the recent Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) announcement to co-fund a new national programme, supporting the country's next generation of ocean innovators, based from Nelson Tasman’s Blue House.
Thursday 09 July, 2026
More than 14,000 low-carbon trips, 110,000 kilometres travelled without a petrol or diesel car, and 25 tonnes of carbon emissions avoided – these are just some of the achievements celebrated at the recent Swap One Year One Prizegiving.
