Historic sites

Download the Thematic Historical Overview of Nelson City (9MB PDF)

A review by the Nelson City Council of how historic heritage is protected in Nelson is underway.

Historic heritage is a touchstone of our identity and diversity and its protection is a “matter of national significance” in the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).

Typical examples of historic heritage include:

  • Built heritage (historic buildings or structures)
  • Archaeological sites
  • Places of significance to Maori, including wahi tapu, urupa, and places of traditional importance
  • Places where past events have taken place
  • Cemeteries and burial places
  • Shipwrecks and other maritime heritage.

Councillor working group member Rachel Reese says historic heritage places and areas provide evidence of the origins of Nelson’s society and allow people to experience a taste of how past generations lived.

“They are a touchstone for many people, and contribute identity, distinctiveness and diversity to Nelson. The review will include an assessment of the heritage listings and provisions in the Nelson Resource Management Plan, and the Council’s financial incentives to landowners for heritage protection.”

The working group is comprised of Councillors Kate Fulton, Derek Shaw, Mike Ward and Rachel. 

She says consultation on this historic heritage review will be undertaken with those directly involved and the public early in the New Year.

A Thematic Historical Overview has been developed which looks at the underlying general developments and events in the history of Nelson. This overview helps avoid concentrating on particular building types, specific periods or particular classes of historical events.

It also provides a framework to represent more fully the range of historic heritage places and areas within Nelson.

Download the Thematic Historical Overview of Nelson City (9MB PDF)

Copies of this overview are also available at the Council service centre, Nelson Public Libraries, or on request by contacting the Planning Adviser  on +64 3 546 0338.