The face of Nelson-Tasman is changing, and it’s getting older. Recent census data reveals Tasman has the fastest ageing population in New Zealand, with Nelson not far behind. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for the community.
According to the latest 2023 Census data, nearly 25% of Tasman’s population is aged 65 and older, making it the second oldest region behind Marlborough at 23.95%. Nelson follows closely as the fourth oldest at 21.61%. Remarkably, Tasman’s 65+ population has surged by over 59% since 2013, the largest increase nationwide, with Nelson also experiencing significant growth at over 40%.
Nicky McDonald, group manager of strategy and communications at the Nelson City Council, explains, “The ageing population is a worldwide trend as people live longer, healthier lives.” While this global pattern is evident across Aotearoa, the top of the South Island is ageing particularly quickly.
Despite common fears associated with the ageing population—like the hyperbolic terms “ageing tsunami” or “age quake”—McDonald emphasizes the value of older individuals. “Older people have learned so much, and they provide numerous volunteer hours. They bolster our economy by working and spending within it. We should appreciate them and enable them to continue their contributions.” McDonald also acknowledges the challenges presented by this rapid increase, especially the strain on existing health services.
Nelson mayor Nick Smith pointed out the pressing need for healthcare and housing adjustments to cater to this demographic shift. “Your use of health services increases dramatically with age. It’s imperative we redevelop our hospital comprehensively,” he stated. Regarding housing, Smith highlighted the necessity of providing various options to accommodate the older population, advocating against fear of the situation. “While our population is ageing, they are also healthier and more active which can stimulate economic opportunities,” he noted.
Likewise, Tasman mayor Tim King rebuffed misconceptions surrounding age restrictions, saying, “It is wrong to think 65 is where people stop enjoying their lives, working, or contributing to their communities.” King iterates feedback from older residents, affirming their lives can be fulfilling well beyond traditional expectations.
The Tasman District Council is working proactively with its Age Friendly Policy, envisioning the district as “a vibrant age-friendly community where older people are valued and socially connected.” The council is also striving to provide accessible and affordable services for the elderly, aiming to boost social connections and active lifestyles.
Caroline Budge, manager of Age Concern Nelson Tasman, highlighted the community's role in fostering connections among older residents. “For many, admitting loneliness can be difficult—a significant barrier to reaching out,” she explained. “Sometimes, individuals need someone to help them cross the threshold.”
Shifting gears, the Coastguard is taking proactive measures to promote water safety through its Old4New initiative, which invites the public to trade their old lifejackets for new ones. This program will visit Blenheim on January 6, offering discounted lifejackets, fitting services, and safety advice for various water activities.
The campaign, part of their Just Wear It initiative, encourages people from all walks of life—be it jet skiers, paddle boarders, or rock fishers—to wear suitable lifejackets. The Old4New team has successfully traded more than 22,000 lifejackets since launching, underlining the importance of safety on the water.
Meanwhile, Marlborough has seen intriguing economic shifts, including a remarkable 12% spike in job advertisements last month following a 13% drop. Rob Clark, Seek country manager, noted, “Industrial and construction sector growth contributed to November’s 1% national rise—marking the first increase since July.”
Despite this positive trend, Marlborough experienced lower retail spending. Approximately $21.5 million was spent within the region’s retail sector during the first two weeks of December, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.1% from the previous year. Comparatively, nationally, retail spending—excluding hospitality—rose by 1.2%.
Concurrently, the rental market displayed contrasting movements. Marlborough’s median weekly rent dropped 6% to $550 between October and November, the second-highest decrease nationwide after Otago’s drop of 7.7%. Gavin Lloyd from Trade Me Property attributed this to various factors, including homeowners seeking extra income and Kiwis opting to stay with family longer.
Overall, the ageing demographic and shifting economic landscapes pose significant challenges and opportunities for the Nelson-Tasman region. Local authorities and community organizations are actively responding, seeking to adapt services and create connections to bolster wellbeing, highlighting the resilience and proactive spirit of this vibrant area.
