In 1978 Nelson Suburbs FC joined Central League where it participated for 8 years until 1985.

In 1999 Nelson Suburbs FC entered the new South Island league.

In 2000, Nelson Suburbs FC entered the Mainland Premier League.

In 2019, Nelson Suburbs FC won the Southern Football League by 1 point over Mainland Premier League rivals Cashmere Technical Football Club.

Both campaigns ended with loses to eventual champions East Coast Bays 2–1 in 2008 and Birkenhead United 2–0 in 2018.