The bustling, happy chaos of a farmers market is your chance to discover seasonal artisan delicacies and meet the locals.
Find out when the next farmers market or arts and craft markets are happening near you.
The Matakana Farmers’ Market(opens in new window) is a Saturday ritual for both locals and visitors. Bring your baskets and reusable bags because this market focuses on sustainability and zero waste. Baked breads, freshly shucked oysters and hand crafted gin and ciders await. There are no secrets here, you can meet the makers and find out exactly how each product is grown and produced.
Grab all you need from the Riverside Market,(opens in new window) this really is a one-stop shop. Inside the huge indoor space are stalls selling locally made food and drinks and fresh produce. You can also dine and drink on site at the many stalls who cook meals in front of you. Kombucha, chilli sauce, vegan cheese, fish and butchery products are all available in this vibrant atmosphere. The best thing is, it's open 7 days a week!
Head to Clive Square between 8.30pm - 12.30pm every Saturday morning to the Napier Urban Farmers Market(opens in new window) and sample the very best local seasonal produce and artisan products. Try creamy Hass avocados, stone fruit, berries and freshly made crepes. Want more? Spend Sunday morning at Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market(opens in new window) located in the Waikoko Gardens at Tomoana Showgrounds.
Every Sunday, growers from Levin and surrounds bring their fresh fruit and vegetables to sell at the Harbourside Market(opens in new window) in Wellington. There is a great selection of seasonal produce, you can buy in bulk or just enough for a meal. Food trucks line up along the water front selling everything from homemade Indian chai to Chinese pancakes.
Enjoy homemade juices, pickles and breads at Lyttelton Farmers' Market.(opens in new window) The market is open every Saturday morning. And in season you can find fresh avocados, asparagus, whitebait fritters and fresh foraged mushrooms. The vibrant atmosphere is the best place to get a real taste of Canterbury.
With a wealth of fresh produce and creative people, Nelson isn't short of markets. Head along on a Wednesday to the vibrant Farmers' Market to stock up on seasonal and fresh produce. On Saturday, admire the arts, crafts and produce at the Nelson Market or pick up some recycled treasures and collectables at Monty's Sunday Market(opens in new window).
The edge of Lake Wakatipu comes alive every Saturday with the bustle of the Queenstown Arts and Craft Market(opens in new window). Stall holders come from all over the South Island to display their hand crafted clothing, jewellery and pottery. 'Kiwi ingenuity' is visible at the market with artists exhibiting their finest examples of backyard creations and upcycled crafts.
Situated next to the Dunedin Railway Station, the Otago Farmers' Market(opens in new window) boasts up to 75 vendors, every Saturday morning. Priding itself as an authentic farmers' market, vendors travel from all over Otago to sell their fresh produce. Stalls include the finest honey, baked goods and micro-greens. You can also purchase fresh flowers, hazelnuts and farm fresh meat and poultry.
The two farmers markets in the Bay of Islands(opens in new window) bring together growers from all over Northland. The Kerikeri Farmers Market is held every Sunday morning and the Paihia Farmers Market is held every Thursday afternoon. Both markets showcase a variety of produce grown in the subtropical, temperate climate of Northland. Talented local musicians create the relaxed atmosphere the markets are known for.
Sunday mornings in Blenheim are full of stone fruit, free range eggs, locally produced cheeses and more at the Marlborough Farmers Market. Stall holders are happy to share recipes and cooking tips. Homemade chutneys, pickles and jams are sought after. This was one of the first markets established in New Zealand.
Check out this complete list of New Zealand farmers' markets(opens in new window)
