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The Best Weekend Markets in Hamilton and the Waikato
Renowned for a history of farming and agriculture, the mighty Waikato boasts a wide range of markets that provide all kinds of unique and wonderful shopping experiences. Whilst many of these markets are catered towards fresh produce and culinary delights, there are also an abundance of other wares on offer such as crafts, household items, holistic services, “junk” and the standard market fare.
In this article, you will find a summary of our local markets and events that are happening throughout the wider Waikato region. Whilst we have made our best efforts to cover every regular market, there are always new things popping up and changes to upcoming events. If we have missed anything, please let us know in the comments below!
Hamilton
Home to around 170,000 residents, Hamilton is the largest city in the Waikato. During the weekends, this inland metropolis bursts to life with Hamilton markets and local events… Just remember to get in early if you want to snap up the best produce!
Waikato Farmers Markets
If you’re looking for a wide variety of farm fresh produce and a lively village atmosphere, these markets are a great place to start. As a regular feature of the Hamilton and Cambridge entertainment scene, they are on every weekend and provide stall holders with a healthy stream of repeat shoppers and local patrons.
Locations: Cambridge – Victoria Square, Cambridge and Hamilton – Gate 3, Brooklyn Road, Claudelands, Hamilton.
Date and time: Every Saturday 8am – 12pm in Cambridge and Sunday 8am – 12pm in Hamilton.
More information: www.waikatofarmersmarkets.co.nz
Hamilton Night Market
The night market is a relatively new event for Hamilton. Here, you’ll find a wide range of ethnic foods and treats from different cultures around the world. Whether you’re after steamed dumplings, sushi, kebabs or curry, you will find it here!
Location: The Base, Northern Carpark opposite Mitre10, Maahanga Drive.
Date and time: Every Friday from 4pm – 11pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/hamiltonnightmarket
Gourmet in the Gardens
During the summer months, Hamilton’s Botanic Gardens are transformed into a foodie heaven every Sunday afternoon.
“There is something for everyone, with Mexican, Korean, Vietnamese Baguettes, Fresh Fruit Ice Cream and so much more. Bring the whole family and your favourite deck chair, bean bag or picnic rug. Sit and enjoy some great local musicians in the award-winning Hamilton Gardens.”
Location: Hamilton Gardens, Cobham Drive, State Highway 1.
Date and time: Every Sunday during the summer months from 4pm – 8pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/gourmetinthegardens
Frankton Market
Every Saturday morning, the Hamilton suburb of Frankton transforms into a marketplace mecca – with clothes, jewelry, authentic cuisine, fresh produce, artwork, crafts and more. Musicians and performers come here to share their talents, which creates a vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Location: Commerce Street, Frankton
Date and time: Saturday mornings from 8am – 1pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/FranktonMarket
Hamilton East River Market
Nestled amongst a stand of mature trees alongside the majestic Waikato river, this regular market is one of the local favorite spots.
“You will find great coffee, the freshest breads and pastries, free range eggs, ice creams and fresh berries (in season), delightful home baking, fresh cut flowers, seedlings, tomatoes, rose plants and the best produce in Hamilton. Almost any product item you can wish for is here, and if it’s not talk to one of our produce stallholders and they’ll be happy to source it for you. Because we’re not a Farmers Market we have the widest range of produce available at any market in the Waikato.”
Location: Sonning Carpark, 204 River Road, Hamilton
Date and time: Every Sunday morning from 8am – 1pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/HamiltonEastRiverMarket
Hamilton East Village Market
This market is held twice a month under the sheltered walkway of Grey Street – rain, hail or shine. From bric-a-brac and collectibles to plants and handmade jewellery, you never know what you’ll find here!
Location: Grey Street, Hamilton East
Date and time: First and third Sunday of each month from 9am – 1pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/Hamilton-East-Village-Market-548218318701221
Tamahere Markets
Tamahere is a small town on the outskirts of southwest Hamilton. On the third Sunday of each month, two Waikato weekend markets are held here – at the same time.
The Antiques, Curios and Collectibles Fair features a wide range of collectibles such as vintage records, tools, clothing, jewelry, board games and currency. This event is held at the Tamahere Community Hall.
Tamahere Country Market is a larger event, offering a much broader diversity of goods and delicacies. With up to 110 sites available for stallholders to use, it is common to find devonshire tea, art, crafts, cheese, wine and clothing here.
Locations: Antiques, Curios and Collectibles Fair: Tamahere Community Hall, 21 Devine Road; Tamahere Country Market: St. Stephens Anglican Church, Corner of Airport and Tamahere Drive, Tamahere.
Date and time: Third Sunday of each month from 8:30am – 1pm (Antiques Fair finishes at 1:30pm).
More information: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2015/antiques-curios-and-collectables-fair/hamilton and www.facebook.com/tamaheremarket
Tamahere Lions Best Artisan Market
Make it a date and help Tamahere Lions help our communities.
Features over 70 stalls: food, artisan craft, gifts, coffee, fresh produce, music, entertainment and bouncy castle, cosmetics, clothing, nails, furniture, jewellery, art – you name it and I’m sure you’ll find it.
Tamahere Lions Best Artisan Market collect good quality toys, clothes and books for Kids in Need Waikato at every market.
Location: Tamahere Community Centre, Devine Road, Tamahere
Date and time: Upcoming events in 2019 are on Saturday 8th June, 10th August, 12th October and 14th December from 9am – 1pm.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/
Tauora Holistic Wellbeing Fair
This sporadically-held market offers all things spiritual – such as healers, readers, mirimiri, rongoā (Māori traditional medicine), crystals, art and more.
Although this is a semi-regular event, it is not held as often as the other Hamilton markets, so make sure to check in advance to find out when the next market is happening!
Location: 254 Ohaupo Road, Glenview, Hamilton.
Date and time: Upcoming events in 2019 are on the 20th July, 28th September and 7th December from 10am – 5pm.
More information: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2019/tauora-holistic-well-being-fair/hamilton
Cambridge, Matamata and Te Awamutu
Situated nice and close to Hidden Lake Hotel, these markets provide local growers and craftspeople with a convenient way to sell their produce in the community.
Cambridge Trash ‘N’ Treasure Market
Alongside the Waikato Farmers Market held in Cambridge every Saturday, the local Lions Club also organizes Cambridge markets once every month, where you can find all sorts of bargains on offer.
“You will find everything from pieces of art to pieces of junk, and part of the fun is deciding which is the bargain. If you want to browse interesting stalls, enjoy yummy food and coffee from the local Cafes, and hear bagpipes/drums, then it’s the place to come.”
With well over 200 stalls, this is one of the larger markets around the Waikato and a great event for the Cambridge township – attracting visitors from far and wide.
Location: Victoria, Duke and Empire Streets, Cambridge.
Date and time: Second Sunday of every month from 8am – 1pm.
More information: www.cambridgemarket.nz
Matamata Market and Craft Fair
The Matamata country markets are held on the second Saturday of every month, and include a range of goods from fresh produce to crafts and more.
Location: Matamata Primary School Grounds, 115a Broadway, Matamata.
Date and time: Second Saturday of every month from 7:30am – 1pm.
More information: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2018/matamata-market-craft-fair/matamata#when
Te Awamutu Twilight Market
During the summer months, this weekday market features lovely fresh seasonal produce from local growers.
Location: Selwyn Park, Te Awamutu.
Date and time: Every Thursday from 2:30pm – 5:00pm from November to March.
More information: www.teawamutuinfo.co.nz/company/te-awamutu-twilight-farmers-market
Coromandel and Northern Waikato
Here in Cambridge, we’re blessed to have the Coromandel on our doorstep. This section takes a look at the markets around Coromandel and northern parts of the Waikato that are within a relatively short driving distance from Hidden Lake Hotel.
Coroglen Farmers Market
Located in a beautiful spot, this rural market is home to local organic produce, crafts and other goodies.
Location: Coroglen Tavern, Tairua-Whitianga Road, State Highway 25
Date and time: Every Sunday from 9am – 1pm between October and April.
More information: www.allaboutwhitianga.co.nz/mercury-bay-events-guide/markets/coroglen-farmers-market
The Tairua Market
On the first Saturday of every month, you will find an eclectic collection of stalls showcasing their great produce from around the Coromandel.
Location: Tairua Hall, 210 Main Road, Tairua.
Date and time: First Saturday of every month from 9am – 1pm.
More information: www.thecoromandel.com/explore/listing/tairua-market-1
Thames Market
Based in the historic township of Thames, not only does this market feature a wide variety of plants, fruit & veges, produce and fine foods, but it is also a short drive from Cambridge.
Location: 700 Pollen Street, Thames.
Date and time: Every Saturday from 8am – 12pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/thamesmarketeverysaturday
Waihi Market
On the third Saturday of every month, Waihi hosts its very own market. This event tends to attract a wide variety of different stalls, as children and non-profit organizations are allowed to have stalls here for free.
Location: Waihi Memorial Hall and in Seddon and Haszard Streets.
Date and time: Third Sunday of every month from 8:30am – 1pm.
More information: www.waihi.org.nz/events/waihi-market
Paeroa Car Boot Market
If you’re looking for a bargain, something different or just want to see what’s on offer, this is a great grassroots market where sellers show up and sell things out of the boot of their cars.
Location: 101 Normanby Road, Paeroa.
Date and time: First and third Saturday of every month (weather permitting) from 8am – 12pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/Paeroa-n-Waihi-Car-Boot-Markets-111743739000801/
Waihou Riding For The Disabled Farmers Market – Te Aroha
All proceeds from stall fees collected at this small town market are donated directly to the local Riding For The Disabled community group.
Location: Waihou Tavern Car Park, State Highway 26 Waihou, Te Aroha.
Date and time: Second Sunday of each month from 8:30am – 1pm.
More information: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2019/waihou-riding-for-the-disabled-farmers-market/te-aroha
Morrinsville Country Market
This market is a joint project, which was started by the Morrinsville Lions and Rotary clubs more than 8 years ago. Here, you will find fresh fruit and veggies, plants, baking, preserves, crafts and live entertainment.
Location: Canada Street (next to the library), Morrinsville.
Date and time: First Saturday of each month from 8:30am – 12:30pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/morrinsville.country.market
Western Waikato
Geographically speaking, the western parts of our region offer a rugged and beautiful set of surroundings, with Raglan encapsulating the wildness that is the West Coast. Here in Pirongia and Raglan, you will find a couple of fascinating Waikato weekend markets offering all sorts of great products.
Raglan Creative Market
This long-standing market has been showcasing the emerging talent of Raglan and Whaingaroa since 2005, with all sorts of artistic ventures calling this event home.
“The Raglan Creative Market reflects the Raglan lifestyle by showcasing the friendly, creative, healthy and alive atmosphere of the area. A place to relax, soak up and enjoy the beautiful things in life with Whaingaroa local kai and arts.”
Location: Old School Arts Centre, 5 Stewart Street, Raglan.
Date and time: Second Sunday of each month from 10am – 2pm.
More information: www.raglanmarket.com
Pirongia Market
With community at its heart, this Sunday Waikato market brings together the township of Pirongia and offers a range of local crafts. All profits from the Pirongia Market are going towards buying a defibrillator for the Pirongia community.
Location: Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier Street, Pirongia.
Date and time: Last Sunday of each month from 9am – 2pm.
More information: www.facebook.com/PirongiaMarket
Taupō and Southern Waikato
As we venture further south towards Taupō, more markets abound. If you’re planning a journey down this way over the weekend, one of these markets might appeal to your shopping desires – whether that be for souvenirs, paintings, tasty food or something a little different.
Tirau Markets
Tirau is a quaint countryside town that epitomizes much of the rural Kiwi lifestyle. On the first Sunday of each month, a trash and treasure market is held at the town hall, and a country market operates on the third Sunday of each month from the same venue.
Location: Tirau Memorial Hall, 27 Main Road, Tirau.
Date and time: Trash and treasure market: first Sunday of each month; Country market: third Saturday of the month from 8am – 4pm.
More information: www.linku2markets.co.nz/waikato-markets.html
Tokoroa Markets
This relaxed town is well known for its timber industry and surrounding agricultural areas. Each Saturday, there is a farmers market and on the third Saturday of every month during the summer, a town market is held near the center of the settlement.
Location: Farmers market: Leith Street; Town market corner of Maraetai Road and Aotea Crescent.
Date and time: Farmers market: every Saturday 8am – 12pm; Town market: every third Saturday from 8am – 12pm during summer months.
More information: www.coastshop.co.nz/markets/Waikato.htm
Piopio Market Day
As you head south past Te Kuiti towards Taranaki, you may come across a small town called Piopio. This farming community comes together on the third Sunday of each month to host the local market day.
Location: Moa Street, Piopio.
Date and time: Third Sunday of each month from 9am – 12pm.
More information: www.healthykids.org.nz/markets/waikato/piopio-market-day
The Taupō Market
Home to stunning scenery, beautiful marine environments and a chilled out township, Taupō is a place where nature, culture, tourism and adventure morph together to form an atmosphere that is uniquely central North Island.
The Taupō Market operates every Saturday morning, regardless of the weather. Here, you will find…
“‘Volcanic’ coffee, pies and fries, pastries and juice, fresh fruit and veggies, free range eggs and micro greens, plants, trees and seedlings, wood carvings, wind chimes, crazy pots and painted garden panels, jewellery, necklaces, bracelets and tattoos, greeting cards, paintings and photography, knitting and sewing for all ages and the family pet – more, more, more.”
Location: Riverside Park & Unison Amphitheatre, Redoubt Street, Taupō.
Date and time: Every Saturday morning from 9am – 1pm.
More information: www.taupomarket.kiwi.nz
So many to choose from… where to start?
With an abundance of markets and weekend activities around the Waikato, the hardest part is often deciding where to start. If you’re visiting our stunning region for a brief period of time, it’s worth looking for a place to stay that is close to all the action.
One of the joys of living in the Waikato is that so many stunning environments and activities are right on our doorstep. Based out of Cambridge, we are a boutique hotel set in a natural bush-clad environment situated near the edge of a stunning lake, yet close to all the amenities of town. Click here to find out more or book directly.
