The expanded Rotorua night market on a Thursday evening. Photo/File
The expanded Rotorua night market on a Thursday evening. Photo/File
Stallholder numbers at Rotorua's Thursday Night Market have more than doubled since it expanded its footprint late last year, says organiser Brigitte Nelson, Rotorua Lakes Council projects manager.
Following the market's expansion by another block before Christmas, the organisers now set up about 34 6m x 3m tents, catering to close to 70 stallholders, depending on demand, she said.
"We started it in 2010 to bring some vibrancy to the inner city," Mrs Nelson said.
"But it's become a great platform for small businesses. And it's much bigger than just a market. It's a lovely place for all sorts of activities and I think that's the key to it."
Rotorua night market on a Thursday evening. Photo/File
Mrs Nelson estimated about 60 per cent of stallholders were selling food, with the balance offering arts and crafts and social activities, and a good number had been stallholders from the beginning.
"The turnover is not high and that's why the extension was important to accommodate the growing number of people who wanted to take part in the market," she said.
The market also provided a useful venue for businesses and clubs to conduct market research.
Hugh Jellie, who runs new venture Caring Dairying, which aims to foster sustainable dairy farming in New Zealand, its supply base, and in target markets, said the Night Market was a great asset for the region. Caring Dairying had conducted market research by introducing examples of their new dairy products at the market for tasting and feedback.
"This proved a great success and an excellent experience. I recommend it to others looking to create awareness or get feedback. The results were brilliant, better than I could have hoped for."
Mr Jellie said the market was well organised and well attended with a wide diversity of people both local and international and a great atmosphere.
"The set-up and break-down of the market is like a military exercise and I commend all involved," he said.
Mrs Nelson noted the Rotorua Night Market, one of the first in the country, was part of a regional network, with stallholders moving from one market to another throughout the week.
The Rotorua market attracted stallholders from Taupo, Tauranga and Whakatane.
"We have a relatively small pool in Rotorua and there are a lot of people who make their living from market selling. I think it's a good thing for business because all of our cities are in close proximity to each other. I see it as a good thing for the region," she said.
A typical example is longtime stallholder Johney Zee. Brought up in New Zealand by his parents from Guangdong, China, he drew on his heritage to create Johney's Dumpling House.
"I grew up eating the food and just thought I'd try it one day in Rotorua and the people there just loved it so I never stopped," he said.
Mr Zee travels around the Bay to other markets and also visits Auckland in winter.
"The Rotorua market is definitely good for business. It's cool, it's like a new revolution.
People enjoy the fast-paced environment. The whole market culture and the vibes are amazing."
Rotorua Thursday Night Market: - Began: 2010 - Location: Tutanekai St, from Hinemoa St to Haupapa St, crossing Pukuatua St. - On: Thursdays, 5pm until 8.30pm, 52 weeks of the year (weather permitting)
