Markets are great and if you've not previously checked out any of Rotorua's three main regular markets, put them on your to-do list.
The Thursday Rotorua Night Market, weekly Saturday morning Rotorua North Rotary Club Charity Flea Market in Kuirau Park and the regular Lakefront craft market all offer something quite different when it comes to atmosphere and what they offer for sale.
This week the night market turns two and it has been great to see it continue with a strong following and a full complement of stalls offering largely food. The live entertainment adds to the relaxed atmosphere as shoppers enjoy the food, stock up on fruit and veges, browse the stalls and stop to chat to friends and acquaintances.
Saturday's market in the park has never been short on bargains and being situated right next to a great playground, makes for an enjoyable early morning outing for the whole family with bookworms catered for every fortnight at the adjacent Friends of the Rotorua Library book sale.
Meanwhile, the popular Lakefront craft market has been around for years, offering all sorts of products, from clothing and accessories to garden ornaments, secondhand goods, outdoor furniture and soaps ... something to capture the attention of just about everyone. It provides a pleasant stroll with plenty to look at and browse through.
