WELCOME TO THE BAY OF ISLANDS FARMERS’ MARKETS

ABOUT US

Established in 2004, this passionate group of local growers and producers come together twice a week in two central locations – Kerikeri and Paihia. We are fortunate to grow in a subtropical – temperate climate and are proud to be able to offer a great variety of local of the freshest locally grown seasonal produce, cheese, preserves, free range eggs, artisan food, plants, beverages and much more to our customers.

Our markets are open rain, hail or shine! Come on down and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and live music. Have a chat with the growers, grab a cup of locally grown and roasted coffee, or a freshly squeezed orange juice, indulge in sweet treats and fresh baking.

The Bay of Islands Farmers’ Markets are proudly AUTHENTIC, and are a member of Farmers’ Markets Association of New Zealand, Inc, operating in accordance with their authenticity guidelines. This means that our members are verified as authentic growers and producers – everything that we sell is grown or made by the vendor locally within the Northland region!

The definition of an authentic Farmers’ Market in accordance to FMNZ is:
A food market with focus on fresh, primary produce (70 %) and a variety of Artisan and ready-to-eat foods (30%). This food is produced within a defined local area. The vendor must be directly involved in the growing or production process of the food (e.g. no middle men, on-sellers, wholesalers, retailers, etc… )

Dogs are welcome on a leash. Parking is on-site or nearby. Mobility accessible.

SUSTAINABLE & LOCAL

Farmers Markets are on the cusp of a social change and it’s called localisation. Connecting people to the knowledge of where their food comes from is the purpose of the Farmers’ Market, creating a sense of local food-identity. In a way, the days of old are re-emerging, with a much stronger focus on locally grown foods.

Globalisation has meant local growers and Artisan producers were finding it harder to make a living in a sustainable way. You, the customer, may be offered more choice in the foods you buy from supermarkets, but the quality is often inferior and your dollar spent goes to industrialised methods of production which are more than likely not sustainable. Additionally you loose touch with the seasons, the reality of time, of what grows when. Supporting the local growers in your area by shopping at the Farmers Market is the easiest way to make choices about your food, your connection to the seasonal cycle,  and  your health as the produce on offer is as fresh as it can be.

In the case of our market, what set out as a movement to support local food related businesses and give consumers access to regional food has become a philosophy in itself. We provide a regular outlet for local food growers and food artisans and thus an alternative place to shop for fresh local produce. We encourage  organic certfication in food production and support GE Free Northland. And we also ensure that all stallholders reflect the principles of the Farmers Market whilst trading with us.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES! BUY LOCAL!

COMMUNITY SUPPORT