Richmond is a fast-growing town 13 km south of Nelson and falls within the boundaries of the Tasman District Council. It has two primary schools, an state co-ed college, a Catholic primary school, and a Catholic co-ed college. Richmond also has a growing retail base, including the region’s largest shopping mall, an aquatic centre, cafés, library, retirement complexes, and health services.

The mountain range behind Richmond forms part of Mount Richmond State Forest Park. Adjacent river valleys with excellent swimming spots are popular for picnics, walking and mountain-biking.