Foreword

A message from your elected members


Nick Smith · Mayor of Nelson

This exciting project is about better connecting our city to the sea and creating an iconic waterfront precinct for people to enjoy. The area has views as beautiful as anywhere in the world and a rich heritage. The problem is poor access, neglected buildings and no plan for its future.

Revitalising our waterfront is unfinished business. I was involved 25 years ago as Nelson's MP in initiating the Nelson 2000 Trust that developed the Early Settlers Memorial, Friendship Walk, The Styx/Guytons building and historic seawall. This project is about developing the surrounding areas and creating better places for people to swim, kayak, manu (water jump), walk, bike and relax.

Money is tight but it is poor economics having empty Council-owned buildings and unused valuable land. There are difficult trade-offs between cost, heritage and how quickly we progress.

We want your input on how we enhance this special part of our city.

Signature of Nick Smith

Nick Smith · Mayor of Nelson

Councillor Mel Courtney · Waterfront Redevelopment Taskforce Chair

The Nelson waterfront is at a turning point. The Anchor Building, the NCC Electricity Building and Custom House have sat empty or underused for years, while roads and carparks cut off the wider precinct from the water.

This masterplan brings transport, water access, business and heritage together for the first time. It looks at how people move through the Haven area on foot, bike, bus and by car. It opens up access to the sea with new steps and a renewed boat ramp. It backs local business and the blue economy with room to grow. And it sets out real choices for our heritage buildings, from minimal repair through to full conversion.

None of this is locked in. The options in this document are genuinely open, and your feedback will help shape what goes forward to Council. I would encourage you to please read the detail, come to a drop-in session if you can, and tell us what matters most to you.

This is your waterfront. Help us get it right.

Signature of Mel Courtney

Councillor Mel Courtney · Waterfront Redevelopment Taskforce Chair