5 August 2016

Stallholders sought for new Rotorua Farmers Market

Rotorua Lakes Council is inviting expressions of interest from people keen to be part of the new Rotorua Farmers Market which will be held on Sundays in the central city.

The new market, to be launched in October, will provide an opportunity to showcase locally grown produce and pantry items like pickles, jams, flowers, cheese and artisan breads with one-off stalls available for community groups and individuals. It will be a food market only, with the exception of seedlings, potted plants, cut flowers, weaving, compost and wood.

There will also be opportunities for individuals and groups like community gardeners to sell excess produce and share their knowledge and opportunities for fundraising.

The market will demonstrate the concept of manaakitanga (hospitality and sharing) and will have a distinctly Rotorua flavour. The “stalls” will be purpose-built carts with a prototype currently underway.

There will be about 30 carts in the first year and it is envisaged more will be added in subsequent years. About 10 expressions of interest have already been received.

The market has the support of those involved in existing markets held in Rotorua with high interest from a recently formed local food network.

The aim is for at least 80 per cent of the food stalls to be from the local region.

Interested stallholders are being asked to submit an expression of interest and if approved will need to agree to the market charter. All approved stallholders will also need to adhere to the Food Act 2014 and apply to Rotorua Lakes Council for a market stall or mobile shop licence.

There are two food categories – primary farm produce such as fruit, vegetables, flowers, meat and eggs; and value-added products such as jams, pickles, cheeses and baked goods. Stallholders may only sell what they themselves produce or grow.

The market will be located on Tutanekai Street between Hinemoa Street and Pukuatua Street. Stall fees vary from $40 to $120 per market depending on the choice of stall with options including uncovered tables and sharing carts. There will also be limited space for stallholders with their own mobile units.

The Rotorua Farmer’s Market charter and Expression of Interest form are available to view and download on council’s website – go to rotorualakescouncil.nz/farmersmarket

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