Markets on the move

Mangawhai Markets have become an institution since their inception around 20 years ago. For the majority of that time, ably managed by Marita Draper they became a weekly event, fair weather or foul, as a place to purchase local produce, handmade products, and bric-a-brac as well as a community meeting place.

Over time the markets have grown, as has the number and range of stalls and also the numbers of those attending with, more recently, some questions being asked about their situation in relation to parking and the effect on traffic around the Village, especially on holiday weekends.

With the resource consent having run its course at the end of January, stewardship has again been taken up by the Mangawhai Community Market Committee and will run with surplus funds being returned to the community.

A combination of factors – including pending roading changes to the Insley Street-Moir Street intersection and public concerns about parking and pedestrian access – have also led to a change of venue. From Saturday April 18 the markets will operate with extended hours from the Mangawhai Beach School gym on Insley Street giving additional space for the majority of stalls to be housed inside – a big plus in winter – while offering safer parking away from the main traffic flow, but is expected to still retain its reputation and importance as an essential community event.

Applications are also invited for a market manager. 

It’s a win-win with Mangawhai Markets relocating to Mangawhai Beach School.