Nelson council to consult on $27m waterfront redevelopment plan
Tuesday 29 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Nick Smith, Nelson City Council
Nelson City Council is seeking public feedback on a $27.3 million masterplan to revitalise the city's waterfront. The proposal aims to transform the area near Haven Road and Wakefield Quay by adding shared pathways, water access, and revamped historic buildings for commercial and hospitality use.
Key facts
5 facts
- The masterplan budget is $27.3 million.
- The plan covers council-owned land and buildings along Haven Road.
- The project is intended to guide development over 10 to 30 years.
- A 600-metre shared pathway is proposed as stage one.
- The masterplan will be decided via the 2027-37 Long Term Plan.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Nelson City Council is preparing to seek public feedback on a $27.3 million masterplan to transform the city's waterfront. The draft plan covers council-owned land and buildings along Haven Road and is intended to guide development over the next 10 to 30 years. Councillors are expected to vote on Thursday regarding whether to put the proposal out for consultation.
The proposal aims to improve connectivity between the city and the sea through a 600-metre shared pathway. This first stage of the project would run from Collins Street, behind the Anchor Building, to the Nelson Yacht Club. Subsequent stages include reshaped carparks with up to 50 new spaces, landscaping, and bus stops.
One key proposal involves a $12 million redevelopment of the NCC Electricity Building to create a new swimming and recreation area. This project would include wide steps into the sea and a renewed boat ramp for light craft. The plan also considers the future of the heritage-listed Anchor Building and the Custom House.
The masterplan will be decided through the 2027-37 Long Term Plan. Mayor Nick Smith noted that the council must be mindful of financial pressures on households and the trade-off between waterfront progress and increasing rates.
Where reports differ
- One report notes a 2016 redevelopment plan was shelved a decade ago, while another report states the current plan aims to address issues that have existed for decades.
Compiled from reports by The Press and RNZ.