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Visit sunny Nelson

DISCOVER the creative paradise that is Nelson - an irresistible blend of lifestyle and stunning landscape at the top northwest corner of the South Island.
From the northern edge of the Southern Alps across the fertile plains and out to a great sweep of beaches, this place is beautifully laid out under a generous sun that delivers New Zealand's highest sunshine hours. Discover the diverse landscapes in each of these areas.
Geography
The Nelson region covers five distinct geographic areas:
* the urban centres of Nelson & Richmond
* the highways of Mapua, Motueka, Moutere, through rolling horticultural land
* the idyllic coastline of Abel Tasman National Park
* the heart of the parks, Golden Bay between Kahurangi and Abel Tasman national parks
* the alpine lakes and rivers around St Arnaud - Nelson Lakes & Murchison including Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi national parks
People
Nelson and Richmond's combined population of 54,500 ranks it as New Zealand's 10th most populous city.
* Maori occupation dates back some 800 years, while European settlement occurred in 1842. Six Iwi groups claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in this region. These are Ngati Koata, Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama, Te Atiawa, Ngati Kuia and Ngati Toa.
* Today Nelson is made up of Kiwis and increasing numbers of immigrants from the UK, Germany, America and further afield.
Economy
The Nelson economy is based on the 'big four' industries; seafood, horticulture, tourism and forestry. Port Nelson is the biggest fishing port in Australasia. There are also a range of growth industries, including art and craft, aviation, engineering technology, and information technology.

Did you know...

* Nelson is New Zealand's second oldest city, settled in 1842.
* Home to NZ's oldest state secondary school, Nelson College, est. in 1856.
* Nelson city rates consistently as New Zealand's sunniest spot with over 2,500 sunshine hours per year
* Home to 22 wineries which benefit from the mild Mediterranean climate.
* Nelson city is the 10th most populous city and geographical centre of New Zealand. Nelson Tasman Region has a resident population of 87,000 (2001) - Nelson city 43,500, Tasman district 43,500).
* Nelson Provincial Government was established.
* Six Iwi (Maori tribal groups) claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in the Nelson Region. These Iwi are Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama, Te Atiawa, Ngati Koata, Ngati Kuia and Ngati Toa.
* Unique with three spectacular national parks all within 90 minutes drive of each other.
* Where you will find two of New Zealand's Great Walks - Abel Tasman Coastal Track and Heaphy Track.

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