Whether you’re after a sunny weekend activity with friends or you are sick of overpriced food, local markets have definitely had a revival. We love strolling around, finding new delicious things to eat and stocking up on fresh fruit and vege for the week ahead. With some of our usual favourites and new additions for the month, here is our pick of the best markets in Auckland to check out this February!
Auckland Night Markets
The Auckland Night Markets are an experience that every Aucklander should tick off. It is an ordinary city car park by day but, come evening, trucks arrive, stalls set up, woks are fired and within the hour the place is transformed into a bustling night market. Attracting up to 10,000 people a night, it’s crowded, steamy, and loud and serves up some of the best cheap, authentic eats around.
When: Wednesdays-Sundays, 5.30 pm- late
Where: Glenfield, Pakuranga, Papatoetoe, Sylvia Park, Henderson, Botany
More details here
City Farmers’ Market
For a taste of the country in the heart of the city, look no further than the City Farmers Market in Britomart. Crusty breads, cheeses, dips and pastries are there to tempt, along with local produce to stock up on for the week ahead. Descending upon Takutai Square, we’ve already eyed up a spot for an impromptu picnic in the sun. For those who are city-bound, a trip this market is very likely to become your favourite weekend ritual.
When: Saturday 8am-1pm, Sunday 9am-1pm
Where: Takutai Square, Britomart
More details here
Clevedon Farmers’ Market
It’s only a 40-minute drive from Auckland, but the Clevedon Farmers Market is a breath of fresh air away from the city. Each Sunday, head south and go straight for the queue for a bangin’ bacon and egg bap. There’s fruit, vege, meats, cheeses and all sorts of homemade goodies to choose from. While you’re out that way, have a browse into the Cammell's Honey store, artisan bakery Aristocakes and Ness Valley Nut Co. for locally grown macadamia nuts.
When: Sundays, 8.30 am- 1 pm
Where: Clevedon A&P sale yards and exhibition hall, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd
More details here
La Cigale Markets
There are few better ways to start your weekend than with a buttery pastry and coffee in hand, and La Cigale Market is the place to do it. As its name suggests, this Parnell market has an undeniable French flavor—think croissants, baguettes and crêpes, alongside fresh produce and a range of other cuisines. Head to the Organic Mechanic smoothie shack to try out their brand new summer menu—it includes a dreamy acai bowl!
When: Saturday 8 am - 1.30 pm, Sunday 9 am -1.30 pm
Where: 69, Georges bay Rd, Parnell
More details here
Matakana Farmers Market
If you haven’t been already, make the most of a sunny February weekend and head to Matakana for its fabulous Farmers Market. Local artisans, growers and farmers gather every Saturday to create a slice of foodie heaven. There's live music, fresh fruit and veges, and treats like organic chocolate, crêpes and gourmet nut butters. We recommend snacking your way around the market and get the best bits for an afternoon feast—cheeses, baguettes, pickles and smoked meats. Enjoy at the nearby Tauwharanui or Omaha beach, and bask in some golden summer sun.
When: Every Saturday 8 am – 1 pm
Where: Matakana Square, 2 Matakana Valley Road
More details here
Silo Produce Market
Although we occasionally indulge the idea of rising early on the weekends, I think we’d all agree—Sundays are for sleep ins. Thankfully, Silo Produce Market kicks off at the respectable hour of 12, meaning we can stock up on fresh produce for the week at lunchtime. There’s fruit, vegetables, coffee and baked goods on offer, alongside live music, food trucks and the Silo Park Bar to refresh yourself after an impressive weekend effort.
When: Sunday 12 – 3 pm
Where: Silo Park, Corner of Beaumont and Jellicoe Street, CBD
More details here
The Night Noodle Market
It’s time to get seriously excited because the Night Noodle Markets is back! After the huge success of last year, it’s going to be bigger and better than before as it has joined forces with Auckland’s beloved Chinese Lantern Festival. Celebrate the New Year with all the curries, dumplings and, of course, oodles of noodles from local favorites, White + Wong, Monsoon Poon and Hoy Pinoy. Enjoy your feast while watching the onstage performances, traditional Chinese festivities and, of course, the famous lights of the Lantern Festival!
When: Thursday 9th – 12th, 5 – 10pm
Where: Kari Street Commons, Auckland Domain
More details here
Myers Park Medley
K Road’s big back yard, Myers Park is getting a music festival and market this month! Partnering with the Music in Parks series, the main stage will have local artists jamming all day long, including The Black Bird Ensemble, Hopetoun Brown, Kong Fooey and Sal Valentine and The Babyshakes. The Twice as Nice markets will be setting up camp, featuring handmade goods and vintage and designer clothing, along with some seriously good food trucks to keep you fuelled up for a day of dancing in the sunshine.
When: Sunday 26th, 12pm - 5pm
Where: Myers Park K Road, CBD
More details here
Japan Day
The biggest one-day Japanese cultural event in New Zealand is back again this year, coming to downtown Auckland at the Cloud and Shed 10. This crazy popular (and free) event is your chance to experience everything Japanese. There’s tea ceremonies, calligraphy, bonsai, origami and pottery demonstrations, along with over 70 delicious Japanese food stalls with everything from chicken karaage, yakitori, noodles and the famous okonomiyaki(savoury pancakes).
When: Sunday 26th, 10 – 6pm
Where: The Cloud & Shed 10, Queens Wharf, 89 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
More details here
Want more?
- The 8 Best Farmers Markets In Auckland
- Your Guide To Auckland’s Night Markets
- 50 Things You Should Have Done If You Live In Auckland
Image credit: Andrew Wilson