There’s nothing better than strolling through a buzzing market with a coffee in-hand and a basket jam-packed with fresh produce and quirky finds. Total bliss, right?
Luckily for us, Hamilton and the wider Waikato offer some of the best markets around. From farmers’ markets to craft markets and everything in between, we’ve rounded up the best markets Hamilton has to offer. Happy wandering.
Hamilton Farmers’ Market
Ease into your Sunday morning the best way possible: with a trip to Hamilton’s ever-popular . The market showcases the best of the Waikato by only selling produce, food and drink items that are grown or produced in the region (or within a 100km radius). Bring your reusable bags and stock up on fresh veges, fruit, meat, fish, eggs and milk—you’ll never have to step into a supermarket again. Wander the stalls while you snack on a Volare almond croissant washed down with a coffee brewed with Jersey Girl Organic’s farm-fresh milk. Hamilton, you are too good.
When: Sundays, 8am to midday
Where: Claudelands, Gate 3 Brooklyn Road
Cambridge Farmers’ Market
The is the little brother of the Hamilton one—and one of the best markets in the Waikato. It’s held every Saturday morning with up to 30 stalls selling fresh, local produce. The market is also a chance to connect with food by chatting to farmers, learning what’s in season and getting ideas about how to prepare your market goodies. Trust us: you’ll be itching to cook up a nourishing feast when you get home. The unmissable market is held in the heart of Cambridge in Victoria Square from 8am to midday on Saturdays.
When: Saturdays, 8am to midday
Where: Victoria Square, Cambridge
Tamahere Country Market
Head to the countryside for held on the third Saturday of the month. The market is bursting with fresh produce, artisan goodies and unique crafts in a vibrant country atmosphere. Skip breakfast beforehand because your taste buds will be lured by the smell of the market’s famous bacon and egg butties. Still hungry? There’s also the likes of cheeses, venison salami, salmon, cheeses and fudge—yum. Better yet, the market is dog-friendly so you can bring your fur child along.
When: Third Saturday of every month, 8.30am to 1pm
Where: St Stephens Anglican Church, Corner Airport and Tamahere Drive, Tamahere
Frankton Market
Let’s be honest, have we really compiled the best Hamilton markets if we haven’t included the iconic ? No, of course not. Hamilton’s original market kicks off from 8am until 1pm each and every Saturday morning. The market stars Hamilton’s diverse community with a mix of cultures and—the best part—delicious international food. The stalls are stocked with everything from clothing and accessories to arts and craft. The buzzing atmosphere also includes cultural performances and live music.
When: Saturdays, 8am to 1pm
When: Commerce Street, Frankton
Hamilton East Village Market
Held on the first and third Sunday of every month, the prides itself on being a “groovy street market” with retro vibes. It’s the perfect market to rummage around if you’re after a vintage gem to adorn your home with. The stalls feature collectables, brick-a-brack, second-hand books and even organic, local veggies. Make the most of your morning and pair your visit with brunch at one of the many delightful Hamilton East cafes.
When: First and third Sunday of every month, 8am to 1.30pm
Where: Grey Street, Hamilton East
St Andrew’s Artisan Market
If you're a sucker for quality local homemade handmade goodies, made with the most aroha, then make sure to visit. The market offers high-quality NZ goods- perfect for gifts and well-being and even offers a Christmas Twilight market later in the year to get you feeling all festive! Not to mention, Kohā Café will be open for tea, coffee and cakes while you browse- you're welcome!
When: First Saturday of every month, 9am to 1pm
Where: St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4 Te Aroha Street, Hamilton
Annual Pirongia Craft Day
Once a year, Pirongia’s main street is taken over for the town’s most highly anticipated event: the . To be eligible as one of the 200-plus stall holders, you must stick to the theme of “New Zealand-made or homegrown”. The result? A vibrant street brimming with handmade ceramics, jewellery, woodwork, prints and beauty products. This year’s event will be held on September 24—perfect for stocking up on locally-made Christmas presents. Get there early to nab a park because the village totally hums with eager market-goers.
When: Sunday, 24 September, 9am to 3pm
Where: Franklin Street, Pirongia
Te Kowhai Country Market Day
Another annual Waikato gem, is set to transform their local Village Green into a lively market with more than 100 stalls. There’s live music, classic cars, plane displays and even funfair rides for the kiddies. Arrive hungry because there’s an abundance of food stalls serving everything from nachos and tacos to dumplings and steamed buns.
When: Saturday, 22 April, 10am to 3pm
Where: Te Kowhai Village Green, Horotiu Road, Te Kowhai
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