A locals guide: Days to market in your diary

A locals guide: Days to market in your diary

Written by Charlotte Lang

Posted on Friday 9 December 2022

It’s no secret that summer is best spent in Nelson Tasman, but perhaps you’re unaware that we’re a quiet, crafty and creative bunch who love sharing our talents at one of our many local markets during the sunniest season.

Where else can you find a range of makers and creators, from fibres to food and everything in between, than our various weekly, fortnightly and seasonal/annual markets!

We’ve compiled a list of some of the popular markets that are happening over summer, so you don’t miss out on an opportunity to explore our creativity, meet the makers, interact with our talented locals; and devour locally made goodies while you’re at it!

Nelson Farmers Market

Every Wednesday, 8am - 1pm
23 Halifax Street, Nelson

A vibrant market with a diverse range of fresh, local, seasonal produce and artisan food.

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Photo: Nelson Farmers Market

Isel Twilight Market

Every Thursday until 30 March, from 4pm till dark
Isel Park, 16 Hilliard Street, Stoke
Spend an evening dining at Isel Park, an idyllic setting where you can get all the ingredients for a beautiful picnic in the grass right there and then while listening to live music.

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Photo: Isel Market

Nelson Saturday Market

Every Saturday, 8am-1pm
Montgomery Square, Nelson
Head on down to get some locally produced goodness at Nelson's most popular market, operating for over 40 years! Don’t end up on the sidelines when the city comes to life on a Saturday morning, immerse yourself, shop for fresh produce or gourmet foods and share brunch under the warm Nelson sun.

Nelson Saturday Market 5 Web Res taken by Oliver Weber credit www.nelsontasman.nz

Monty's Sunday Market

Every Sunday, 8am - 1pm
Montgomery Square, Nelson
This is for the lovers of all things second hand, bargains and treasure-hunting where single scattered garage sales come together into a carpark-party for all things pre-loved. 

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Photo: Nelson Market, Sunday Market

Motueka Sunday Market

Every Sunday, 8am - 1pm
Decks Reserve, Motueka
The Motueka Sunday Market is one of the best places to take in the smells, sights and tastes of what the region has to offer. The perfect stop on the way to the beach!

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Photo: Motueka Sunday Market

Pretty Crafty Market

Saturday 24 December, 10am - 2pm
Richmond Town Hall, 9 Cambridge Street, Richmond
Here there is something for everyone, including locally made jewelry, artwork, natural skincare, up-cycled goods, babywear and much more. Support some of our talented locals and pick up a last minute Christmas gift!

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Photo: Pretty Crafty Market

Richmond Market Day

Thursday 29 December, 9am - 3pm
Queen Street, Richmond
Join Richmond businesses as they bring their specials out onto the main street, and the many market stallholders from all around New Zealand lined up down Queen Street. With an outstanding array of food, clothing, plants, fresh summer produce, local artisan products plus free activities for the kids, it’s all there!

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Photo: Richmond Market Day

Richmond Park Market 

Every Sunday, 10am - 3pm
A&P Showgrounds, 358 Lower Queen Street, Richmond 
The Richmond Park Market is held rain or shine, welcomes dogs on leads, buskers and friendly people to enjoy the tastes and talents of our local producers and creators.

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Photo: Richmond Park Market

Kirby Fridays

Every Friday, 4:30pm - 9pm
Kirby Lane, 105 Bridge Street, Nelson
Showcasing local talent, food, and businesses, Kirby Lane is the place to be on a Friday evening to end your week right. Great food, drinks, music, and company! Come on down and enjoy the Friday vibes at Kirby Lane.

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Photo: Kirby Fridays

Riwaka Market Day

Monday 2 January, 9am - 3pm
Riwaka Memorial Reserve, Corner of School Road and Highway 60, Riwaka
This annual fundraising event organised by members of the Motueka Pottery Workshop draws many locals every year for the pottery bargains at the "Club Stall” by popular local potters. Children can enjoy clay play and the pottery group's famous "lucky dip" where prizes are all handmade pottery items. Also provided by the potters are yummy scones with cream and boysenberry jam – a Riwaka Market Day traditional treat!

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Photo: Riwaka Market Day

Wakefield Country Fete

Monday 2 January, from 9:30am
Wakefield Village Hall, 10 Whitby Way, Wakefield
Many stalls from the local area displaying and selling for one day only since 1978, the Wakefield Country Fete is the oldest market in the region. Enjoy the food, music and beautiful crafts, set in the Hall and surrounding village green.

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Photo: Wakefield Country Fete

Village Market Takaka

Every Saturday, 9am - 1:30pm
Library carpark, 3 Junction Street, Takaka
Showcasing the unique craftmanship of local artisans, Takaka market offers eclectic gifts, delicious food and vibrant music.

Village Market Takaka

Mapua Village Market

Every Sunday, 9am - 2pm
Corner of Iwa St and Aranui Road, Mapua Wharf 
A beautifully curated village market full of an interesting collection of crafts, food and artists from the Tasman area.
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