blurry placeholderZero carbon couple kayaking MSK Abel Tasman beach sunset

Visitor Sector

With three National Parks, the busiest regional airport, a vibrant city and character-filled towns, it’s no surprise the Visitor economy is a significant economic driver for Nelson Tasman.

However, the importance of the sector goes beyond direct economic contribution. The Visitor sector supports events, the arts, hospitality, retail and outdoor experiences, and contributes to the vitality and vibrancy of Nelson Tasman. It also provides a shop front for the region, supporting the attraction of talent and investment, and showcasing regional products to broader audiences.

Nelson Tasman’s visitor economy offers significant opportunities to strengthen its linkages to other sectors, to act as a conduit for the attraction and retention of talent and investment.

At a glance

Statistics as at 2023.

$259m

GDP

4%

Share of regional GDP

11%

GDP growth since 2022 Covid recovery

5,402 jobs

Employment

9%

Share of regional employment

26%

Employment growth since 2022 Covid recovery

Zero Carbon Itineraries

New Zealand’s first Zero Carbon Itinerary was launched here in 2021, followed by the Light Footprint Holiday in 2022, and our visitor sector is investing heavily in building our region’s ‘green credentials’, as evidenced by the Mārahau Pledge in 2022. We are committed to the five-year Destination Management Plan for recovery and regeneration of the visitor sector.

View the Light Footprint Itinerary here.

blurry placeholderZero carbon Abel Tasman Sailing

Leading Companies

The Destination Partner Promotion Programme is a collaborative network of businesses which promotes Nelson Tasman businesses around the world. The aim is to create a strong community of businesses that provide space for collaboration and business opportunities, with a range of local forums and workshops.