Mayor's Message: "Don't leave town till you've seen the country"

The tourism slogan “don’t leave town till you’ve seen the country” was originally meant to encourage people to see New Zealand before heading overseas. Now is the perfect chance to explore your own city, a stunning little village not too far away, or take a short break to one of three national parks on our doorstep.

Tēnā koutou e te whānau o Whakatū, me ngā manuhiri kua mauru mai

It's been a year with plenty of challenges, but thanks to our high COVID-19 vaccination rates and the introduction of vaccine passes it looks like we're in a great position to enjoy our holiday break. It will mean embracing a slightly different new normal, but it's as close to normality as we can get given lockdowns and other restrictions many areas have faced.

Lots of people have been talking to me about staying local this summer and welcoming family and friends into the region. This is a great place to have a holiday, and it’s the perfect opportunity to check-in with what Nelson Tasman has to offer, experience what’s new, and make the most of our fabulous environment and facilities.

The tourism slogan “don’t leave town till you’ve seen the country” was originally meant to encourage people to see New Zealand before heading overseas. Now is the perfect chance to explore your own city, a stunning little village not too far away, or take a short break to one of three national parks on our doorstep.

For inspiration on what we’ve got in our own backyard, take a look at 100 Ways to Experience Nelson Tasman.

We know our hospitality and tourism sectors have been doing it tough throughout the pandemic period, and every dollar spent locally will provide a “multiplier” as it circulates throughout our local economy, keeping businesses open and people in jobs. This is especially important as the number of visitors are likely to be down again this holiday season with the international border being restricted.

It would be easy to make an appeal just based on parochialism, but I think that misses the point of the many blessings we have living where we do. Give yourself permission to stop and recharge the batteries and maybe find a new favourite destination or activity. 

Go urban, go rural, go to wild places and meet new people. Do an new activity, an adventure, or just stand and stare at the awesomeness of what’s around us. There’s a lot to smile about. 

While it shouldn’t be necessary for me to extol the virtues of our wonderful food and beverage, this is the season to experience some of the best produce in the world - so fill your boots and your pantry.

There are plenty of places where you can try and buy, and lots of really good value where buying in season is good for the budget as well as the taste buds. And of course, getting about is made easy (and good for the environment) with local markets, walks and cycle tracks to enjoy without having to get into your car.

This piece isn’t so much an advertisement for the local tourism and hospitality sector as a reminder that we can easily overlook great things close to home.

So, the Mayor’s Summer Challenge – do three new things locally that you haven’t done before, and maybe consider making them a part of your new normal for 2022.

As always, remember to stay safe and look after those around you.

Meri Kirihimete me te tau hou kia koutou katoa.