The Best Markets in Dunedin, New Zealand
Dunedin is a New Zealand city that hosts a nice selection of community markets. Some of these are summer fanfares, others one-off traditions and there are a few weekly regulars too. No matter what you’re in the mood for, here are some of the area’s best offerings.
Otago Farmers Market
Farmers' Market, Market, Contemporary, Street Food
The Otago Farmers’ Market is a year-round, weekly event that has been livening up Dunedin’s iconic Railway Station for more than a decade. It’s one of the busiest farmers’ markets in Australasia, boasting more than 60 vendors and several thousand visitors on any given week. Food ranges from local produce, meat and fish to Asian cuisine and French crepes.
Dunedin Summer Markets
Market, Contemporary
The Dunedin Summer Markets are held at Arthur Street School on the third Sunday of every month, from spring until summer (i.e. October-March). The idea is to bring the community together with some good food and entertainment during the sunny season. BBQ fundraisers, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, as well as an array of locally-produced foodstuffs are among the main features market-goers can look forward to.
Blueskin Community Market
Store
This market is situated in Waitati, 15 minutes north of Dunedin, and is held on the grounds of the Gallery on Blueskin on the first Sunday of every month. Some stalls will have EFTPOS card machines installed, but cash with small change is the norm for most. Ceramics, jewellery, plants, home baking and homemade preserves are just some of the various items you can find on a typical market day.
Port Chalmers Community Market
Market, Farmers' Market, Contemporary
The Port Chalmers Community Market brings this Dunedin suburb’s local artists, foodies, produce-growers and keen market-goers together for a fun-filled, monthly gathering. It is held on the third Sunday of the month, rain or shine, so that everyone can relish the benefits of shopping local. Anyone can set up a stall, for free, provided they follow all the proper food and safety regulations.
Thieves' Alley Market
Market, Contemporary
Thieves’ Alley is an annual summer market held at the heart of Dunedin city. Stalls, performers and entertainment venues are scattered around The Octagon and Bath Street, attracting visitors from the world over as they set themselves up for a fantastic day out. This is the biggest all-weather market in the city, offering an amazing mix of knick-knacks, artisan products, food, clothing and crafty creations to please all tastes and budgets.