Commemorative Plaque Unveiled To Mark 125 Years Of Port Nelson

Port Nelson today marked 125 years of formal harbour governance with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque recognising the role the harbour has played in shaping the region’s economy.

The plaque was unveiled by Ngā Iwi o Te Tauihu, Nelson Mayor Nick Smith, and Tasman Councillor Kit Maling, acknowledging both the connection of tangata whenua to Parororoa, Nelson Haven and the establishment of the Nelson Harbour Board in 1901.

Since Port Nelson’s establishment, the Port has enabled the export of the region’s key industries, including forestry, seafood, apples and wine, supporting approximately 31% of employment across Te Tauihu.

Port Nelson Chief Executive Matt McDonald said the milestone reflects both legacy and responsibility. “This plaque marks 125 years since harbour governance formally began in Nelson, a decision that laid the foundation for the port we operate today. For more than a century, this harbour has connected our region to the world’s markets. As we look ahead, our focus is on ensuring Port Nelson remains safe, resilient and ready to support the next generation of regional growth.”

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said he was proud to unveil the commemorative plaque today. “Port Nelson has been jointly owned by Nelson City and Tasman District councils since 1992 and has returned dividends of more than $24 million to each council over the past decade. The prosperity of our city and wider region relies on the export of forest products, apples and wine through Port Nelson. This anniversary is a reminder of the critical role the Port continues to play in our regional economy.”

The plaque features a toi Māori design by Matua Fayne Robinson on behalf of iwi. The design incorporates eight mangōpare (hammerhead sharks), representing the eight iwi of Te Tauihu as tangata whenua, alongside a koru symbolising the ika (fish) and regional products moving across the wharves. A puhoro pattern reflects movement through the moana and the shipping lines central to the Port’s operations.

The commemorative plaque will remain on display at the Coastal Berth, Port Nelson’s historic wharf, as a permanent reminder of Port Nelson’s past and its ongoing contribution to the future of Te Tauihu.

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