The two maps illustrate the changes that occurred in Nelson City between 2000 and today.
Overall, much has changed in the city, with noticeable changes occurring in transport, shopping, and leisure.
In 2000, Nelson was a smaller and more compact city. A commercial area dominated the city center. Near the market was the main shopping area. In the western part of Nelson, with its railway connecting to other places, was situated a train station. The university lay at the periphery of the city, and there wasn’t any residential area for the students. The majority of the residence areas were situated in the south of the city, with a large green area in the northeastern part.
Looking at the current map, the prominent green space in the northeast has now expanded to be one of the main shopping centers in the city. Also, the university has grown and is currently a big development that has created a new hall of residence, through which the number of students being accommodated there keeps on rising. Bicycle rental services are now available in the city center, and a new, covered market has been erected. In addition, a new market is constructed, replacing the old one. Moreover, the port has turned from a noisy car road into a lively pedestrian zone with loads of entertaining facilities like restaurants, bars, and clubs on offer.
