Matakana Village Farmers' Market. Photo / Richard Robinson
Matakana Village Farmers' Market. Photo / Richard Robinson
It's the perfect time of year to enjoy New Zealand's outdoor summer markets.
So, if you love local, seasonal produce at a good price – why not tear yourself away from the beach and enjoy some retail therapy in the sun? With help from Booking.com, we've identified the best places to stay in order to visit some of the country's most popular marketplaces.
Christchurch Farmers' Market
A feast for both your stomach and your eyes, the Christchurch Farmers' Market can be found in the stunning grounds of the Riccarton House homestead. Established in 2003, the market was founded to serve local, seasonal ingredients. It runs every Saturday from 9am to 1pm, all year round. With live music, fresh coffee and the best of Canterbury's produce on offer – what's not to like?
Where to stay: Chateau On The Park, 189 Deans Avenue, Riccarton. This Riccarton based hotel is set among five acres of peaceful garden. As well as a private vineyard, Chateau On The Park has a restaurant, bar and fitness centre. Just a five-minute drive from the city centre, and a 20-minute walk to Christchurch Cathedral, this property is renowned for its great location.
The Otago Farmers' Market is packed with fresh local produce and colourful entertainers. Photo / Supplied
Open every Saturday between 8am and 12.30pm near the Dunedin Railway Station, Otago Farmers' Market is part of the city's fabric. It is solely a food market, and attracts thousands of visitors each week. With up to 75 vendors selling fruit, vegetables, meat, baked goods and more, market-goers will find themselves in foodie heaven.
Where to stay: The Brothers Boutique Hotel, 10 Bishops Road, Dunedin. This 1920s building offers guests a true heritage experience, with all the modern comforts. Only a six-minute, downhill walk to the city centre, this is a perfect spot to rest from sampling the delicious delights of the Otago Farmers' Market.
The Brothers Boutique Hotel, Dunedin. Photo / Supplied
Wellington Harbourside Market
Harbourside Market is the oldest and most popular market in Wellington. Photo / Supplied
Harbourside Market is the oldest and most popular market in Wellington. Open every Sunday from 7:30am, the market has operated at its current location since 2002. But there has been some sort of market in the area from as long ago as 1920. Shopping at the market is a wonderful way of supporting local farms and producers, who bring the best possible produce to market.
Where to stay: QT Museum Wellington, 90 Cable Street, Wellington. Located on Wellington's sparkling waterfront, the hotel is located not only near the market but the beach too – making it a perfect summer getaway for visitors to Wellington. It also boasts a large collection of New Zealand contemporary art, so perfect for those who like to admire the views both inside and outside.
QT Museum Hotel in Wellington. Photo / Babiche Martens
Matakana Village Farmers Market
A food stall at the Matakana Farmers' Market. Photo / Supplied
The vibrant Matakana Village Farmers Market is an important spot for produce growers and locals to meet. As well as the best in fruit and vegetables, market goers will find herbs and seeds for the garden, fine wine, boutique bottles of olive oil and organic chocolate. Live music and fresh coffee are a given at this market, which runs every Saturday from 8am to 1pm.
Where to stay: Kourawhero Estate, 471 Wyllie Road, Warkworth. Set amidst pristine surroundings, this luxury estate is for those who want to spoil themselves a little this summer. All suites are spacious and uncluttered, and the private ground is teeming with forest, bush walks and waterfalls.
Kourawhero Estate. Photo / Supplied
Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market
The "Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market" is something a little different, merging together visual and performing arts. It embraces and celebrates the work of artists across the South Island. Taking place every Saturday on the lake front at Earnslaw Park, products on offer at the market include carvings, jewellery and pottery, among many other crafts.
Where to stay: The Spire Hotel, 3-5 Church Lane, Queenstown. This stylish boutique hotel is located at the heart of Queenstown. Once you've had your fill of the market, you can head over to the shores of Lake Wakatipu or enjoy a walk around the Queenstown Gardens.
