Arts, crafts, delicious food and coffee, and plenty of character. Wellington visitors (and locals too) are lucky to have lots of cool markets to browse. From longstanding weekend events to periodic fanfares, here’s a look at some of the very best places to get your market fix in New Zealand’s capital city.
Wellington Underground Market
Market, Bazaar
The Wellington Underground Market is a culmination of everything that makes the capital city shine. Every Saturday from 10:00am until 4:00pm, local artists, designers, performers, coffee sellers and food vendors come together to liven up Frank Kitts Park and Jervois Quay. The Underground Market comes in many variations, including an annual Christmas Market, a handful of two-day Showcase Weekends and the seasonal Pop Up Village.
Wellington Night Market
Market, Contemporary, European, Fast Food, Vegetarian
Street performances, a melting pot of different foods, and plenty of energy – if you’re looking for a awesome spot to hang out on a Friday or Saturday night, Cuba Street’s Wellington Night Market is the place to visit. Asian cuisine features prominently along its stalls – though you can also find treats like churros and waffles too. Both night markets run from 5pm to 10pm, making them the perfect stopover for a quick bite to eat before hitting the town.
The Harbourside Market
Market, Street Food
A classic in every sense of the word, the Harbourside Market has been filling the Wellington waterfront with fresh produce and assorted food stalls since 1920. Along with being the oldest farmers market in the city, it is one of the most popular too. It runs every Sunday morning, from 7:00am to 2:00pm in summer and from 7:00am to 1:00pm in winter.
Capital Market
Market, Indian, Fast Food
This undercover food market is located right in the midst of Wellington’s commercial district. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savoury, hearty or light, you’re bound to get your foodie fix with this market’s incredibly diverse offerings. Just about every type of cuisine, from Asian to European is accounted for – and the Capital Market is also known for being quite budget-friendly.
Thorndon Farmers Market
Farmers' Market, Market
Rain, hail or shine, the Thorndon Farmers Market is a great place to grab some local produce while getting a glimpse of life in the Wellington suburbs. Organic products, gluten free goodies, artisan hauls, and plenty of sustainable products are some of this vibrant markets’ strongest features. You’ll find the Thorndon Farmers’ Market by the Cathedral of St Paul’s car park, every Saturday from 8:30am until 2:30pm.
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The Vegan Vault Night Market
A newcomer in the Wellington market scene and definitely one to watch. The Vegan Vault set up its first installation in April 2017, and were amazed to find that 2,000 people turned up to support them. Due to popular demand, organisers even expanded the number of stalls, from the initial 12 to 23. The monthly event was established by the owner of the Sweet Release Cakes and Treats cafe, so that vegans can join in on Wellington’s bustling market action.
A monthly pop-up market that specialises in all things arty and crafty. Find this little gem close to New World atrium, and get ready to be feast your eyes on an amazing collection of handcrafted jewellery, artisan soaps, and lovely knitted items. The Tawa Popup was created by two local mums who wanted to showcase the wonderful craft and design to come out of Wellington’s northeastern suburbs.
Craft Central
A yearly pop-up market on the Miramar peninsula that has been supporting local talent since 2013. Along with vibrant stalls, Craft Central keeps the community spirit alive by hosting creative activities that both children and adults alike can get into. Some of the items you can expect to find on a typical Craft Central event include beauty products, childrenswear, home decor, gifts, and jewellery.
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