The region, which is the sunniest in New Zealand, has for many years attracted residents who love to use their imaginations. There are more than 350 working artists and craftspeople living in Nelson, including traditional and contemporary Maori artists. Their work is often inspired by the region’s exceptionally beautiful geography - coastal, forest and valley landscapes provide places to wander and dream.

The Nelson area is known by the Maori as Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (the tip of the nose of the canoe of Maui). From his waka, the demi-god Maui used his magic fish hook to catch and land the North Island (Te Ika a Maui - the fish of Maui).o catch and land the North Island (Te Ika a Maui - the fish of Maui)Mawhera covers the West Coast as far south as Westport, and includes the intriguing pancake rocks and blow holes at Punakaiki, and the lush West Coast forest best typified around Karamea. Marlborough includes the grape-growing areas of the Wairau Valley and the glorious Marlborough Sounds. Further south, Kaikoura boasts a rugged coastline, spectacular mountain scenery and whalewatching.
The Anglican Diocese of Nelson is a family of evangelical churches shaped by Anglican tradition, covering the top third of the South Island of New Zealand. We are strongly committed to carrying the mission of Christ forward, engaging in contemporary ministry through the local church. We have a vision to strengthen local churches, but also to plant new kinds of churches and ministries wherever there is a need. We want to obey Christ's Great Commission to make disciples of all nations