Part one in a series of articles showcasing the different businesses on Bridge Street, this week we are highlighting the many national brands and businesses that call Nelson city centre their home.

For many Nelsonians, Bridge Street isn’t just a place to eat and shop — it’s where they pay bills, upgrade a phone, pop into the bank, or spend their nine-to-five.

Scattered along Bridge Street, among our locally owned and operated businesses, are a handful of well-known national services spanning multiple industries.

A recent addition to Bridge Street, with a window of polka dots and bright lemon motifs, Flo & Frankie blends contemporary trends with timeless design. Just across the road is long-established women’s plus-size fashion retailer Taking Shape.

Noel Leeming and Stevens are two well-loved retailers that also call Bridge Street home. With back entrances via Buxton Carpark, both remain easily accessible. Whether you’re after a new coffee machine or mugs, glassware for a dinner party, or a speaker for entertaining, you’ll find it here.

If live entertainment is more your thing, Rockshop has all the gear you’ll need. Whether you’re a young musician just starting out or an aspiring Jimi Hendrix, the Rockshop team will set you up with guitars, amps, mics and mixers.

Just across the road from Fiddle Lane, Triton Hearing offers specialist hearing assessments and support for people of all ages. If running is your addiction, Shoe Clinic can fit you out with footwear known for support, fit, durability and comfort, including popular brands such as Hoka and Birkenstock.

Many Bridge Street businesses are service-based, from banks to digital creatives. Banking will remain accessible on Bridge Street, with Westpac relocating late last year to a new home just past the Trafalgar Street intersection. Further along, next to the newly developed Montgomery Lane, you’ll find the Co-operative Bank. Montgomery Lane will remain open to pedestrians while work continues on Bridge Street. Also accessible via Montgomery Lane or the sheltered laneway, the Ministry of Social Development will remain open and easy to access.

Providing staffing solutions ALH Labour Hire can connect your business with reliable, skilled workers across a range of industries. Also on Bridge Street and covering you from cover to claim is Abbott Insurance Brokers, from business insurance to personal, health or even travel. Rounding out the nationally available services on Bridge Street is Findex, providing financial advice and services to individuals and businesses.

New to Bridge Street and located next to Westpac is One NZ, where you can browse the latest phones and get face-to-face support.

And at the end of a long week, depending on your version of relaxation, you can either book an island getaway with HelloWorld or sink into a comfortable, inviting bed from Brownies.

From everyday essentials to expert services, Bridge Street continues to be a place where Nelsonians can get what they need, all in one familiar, well-connected location.