City Development Surveys

Nelson Public Life survey

Public Life Surveys are an observational method for generating quantitative data regarding ‘life’ in our streets, squares, parks and other public environments.

The first Public Life Survey was carried out over the winter of 2019, and the summer of 2020 over two seasons (winter and summer), and over two days (weekday and weekend). The follow up 2024 Survey has been completed and now gives us a comparison tool to see any changes in the areas and activities previously observed.

With Te Ara ō Whakatū being formally adopted and planning for initial permanent public realm upgrades underway, the city centre is on the precipice of major transformation - the data captures a newly established baseline which can be utilised in the future to gauge the activation resulting from this investment and future investment in the city. 

Key findings:  

• Pedestrian movements:  While street life appears robust, and at times vibrant, footfall has, with the exception of winter Saturdays, decreased between 13% to 20% when compared to the 2019/2020 survey findings.  

• Bicycle movements: For 2024, bicycle movements were registered during ‘peak’ times only, as informed by the 2019/2020 survey. When compared to 2020, weekday morning registrations during Summer reflect a +40% increase, while overall, Winter registrations grew by 46%. 

• Staying activities: One significant change since 2019/2020 can be seen in the decrease of Summer staying activities, which reduced by approximately 50%. Dips in weekday staying activities may, in part, be attributed to changing work and shopping habits.  

• A 20% increase in young people (aged under 14) has also been recorded within the City Centre after 3pm. 

2024 Whakatū City Centre Public Life Survey (19MB PDF)

2019/2020 Whakatū City Centre Public Life Survey  (6.9MB PDF)

City Centre Streets for People survey

Nelson City Council is exploring how to improve pedestrian safety, visitor experience, consumer spending and activity in Nelson’s city centre, and needs your help.

Download the survey and Frequently Asked Questions.

Find out more and complete the online survey at shape.nelson.govt.nz/city-centre-streets-for-people

Nelson City Centre survey 2019

Over the last Nelson City Council election term, Councillors requested data that would assist them in making decisions around car parking, public transport, active transport and City Centre investment.