There’s something pretty special about a good farmers’ market. The smell of fresh bread, the chatter of friendly stallholders, the colours of just-picked fruit and veg. It’s the kind of experience that makes you slow down and really enjoy where you are. And if you’re travelling around the South Island, you’re in luck. This part of New Zealand is packed with farmers’ markets that are full of delicious local produce and reflect the character of each community.
Whether you’re after organic greens, artisan cheese, fresh baking or handmade crafts, there’s a market for every taste. Some are tucked away in small towns, while others sit right in the middle of buzzing cities. They’re a brilliant way to spend a weekend morning, meet the locals and pick up a few tasty souvenirs while you’re at it.
In this post, we’re sharing our top ten farmers’ markets in the South Island. These are our favourites, and we think they’re well worth a visit.
Why visit our farmers markets?
There’s more to a farmers’ market than just picking up a few bits for dinner. These markets are a window into the heart of a region. When you buy from a stallholder, you’re often chatting to the person who actually grew, baked or made what you’re taking home. It’s real, honest food and craft, without the middleman.
Farmers’ markets are brilliant for discovering what’s in season. You’ll find juicy summer berries, crisp autumn apples, and all sorts of fresh greens depending on the time of year. Many stalls offer organic produce, handmade cheeses, free-range meats and small-batch baking you simply won’t see in the supermarket.
They’re also just a lovely way to spend your time. Grab a coffee, browse the stalls, maybe listen to a local busker or two. Kids run around, locals catch up, and visitors get a taste of true Kiwi hospitality.
And best of all? Every dollar you spend goes straight back into the local community, helping small producers thrive and keeping regional traditions alive.
1. Otago Farmers Market – Dunedin
If you’re in Dunedin on a Saturday morning, the Otago Farmers Market is an absolute must. Held right beside the stunning Dunedin Railway Station, this market has become something of a local institution. It’s been running since 2003 and has built up a loyal following of both locals and travellers who appreciate quality food straight from the source.
Every stall here tells a story. You’ll find fresh fruit and veg, locally made cheeses, artisan breads, honey, and even hot food stalls if you fancy breakfast on the go. Many of the producers come from Otago and surrounding regions, so you’re getting a real taste of the South.
It’s a lively, bustling place, especially in the warmer months. Live music often adds to the atmosphere, and there’s a great community vibe. Sustainability is also a big focus, with lots of stalls encouraging reusable containers and minimal packaging.
Insider tip: Get there early. The market opens at 8am and some of the most popular items can sell out quickly. Bring cash, a shopping bag, and come hungry.
2. Nelson Farmers Market – Nelson
Nestled in the sunny heart of Nelson, this midweek market is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Held every Wednesday in Montgomery Square, the Nelson Farmers Market has a strong focus on locally grown, seasonal produce, much of it organic or spray-free. It’s a bit smaller and more laid-back than some of the bigger weekend markets, but that’s part of its charm.
Expect a lovely mix of fresh fruit and veg, microgreens, free-range eggs, gourmet mushrooms, fresh baking and handmade preserves. There’s also a growing number of stalls offering ready-to-eat bites, so it’s a great spot to grab lunch if you’re exploring the city.
The stallholders are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. It’s the kind of place where you can stop and have a proper chat about where your food comes from, or get tips on how to cook with something you’ve never tried before.
Insider tip: The market runs from 8am to 1.30pm every Wednesday. Arrive mid-morning for the best balance between selection and atmosphere. Don’t forget to try the locally made nut butters and raw treats—they’re a hit for a reason.
3. Riverside Market – Christchurch
More than just a farmers’ market, Riverside Market is a vibrant hub right in the heart of Christchurch. It’s open seven days a week, making it one of the most accessible spots on this list, and it offers a fantastic blend of fresh produce, artisan food, boutique shops and casual eateries all under one roof.
Built as part of the post-quake rebuild, Riverside has quickly become a favourite meeting place for locals. The indoor market hall is beautifully designed, with a mix of permanent vendors and rotating stalls selling everything from seasonal vegetables to cured meats, gourmet cheeses, baked goods and handmade chocolates.
What sets it apart is the atmosphere. It’s lively, welcoming and full of character. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re shopping for ingredients, grabbing a bite to eat or just soaking up the buzz.
Insider tip: If you can, visit midweek to avoid the weekend crowds. Head upstairs for extra seating and views over the market floor, and keep an eye out for free tastings—many stalls are happy to let you sample before you buy.
4. Motueka Sunday Market – Motueka
Tucked between the mountains and the sea, the Motueka Sunday Market is a laid-back, colourful gem that captures the spirit of this creative little town. Every Sunday morning, locals and visitors gather in Decks Reserve car park to browse a mix of fresh produce, handmade crafts, plants, and second-hand treasures.
This market has a relaxed, almost festival-like feel. It’s smaller than some of the others on this list, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm. You’ll find everything from spray-free vegetables and homemade chutneys to handcrafted jewellery and natural skincare products.
It’s a great place to pick up picnic supplies if you’re heading into Abel Tasman National Park, which is just a short drive away. You can also enjoy live music, sample street food, and chat with some seriously talented local makers.
Insider tip: The market runs from 8am to 1pm on Sundays. Bring a sunhat and take your time wandering. The crepes and coffee are a popular choice for breakfast.
5. Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – Christchurch
Perched on the hillside with stunning views over the estuary, the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market offers a more intimate, community-focused alternative to Christchurch’s city centre options. It’s held every Saturday morning at the Mount Pleasant Community Centre, and it’s a proper locals’ market in the best sense of the word.
You’ll find a well-curated selection of fresh produce, bread, free-range eggs, honey, flowers, and locally made treats. Many of the stallholders live nearby, and the atmosphere is warm, friendly and welcoming. It’s a place where people know each other’s names and stop for a proper chat.
This market also places a strong focus on sustainability. You’ll see plenty of reusable bags, low-waste packaging and even a market composting system in place. It’s the kind of place where you feel good about your shopping, not just because of the quality, but because of the care behind it.
Insider tip: Get there early for the best produce, especially in peak growing season. If the weather’s good, grab a coffee and enjoy the view while listening to live music.
6. Lyttelton Farmers Market – Lyttelton
The Lyttelton Farmers Market is one of the South Island’s most beloved weekend markets, and it’s not hard to see why. Every Saturday morning, London Street comes alive with stalls, music and the smell of fresh baking, all set against the backdrop of a charming port town and harbour views.
This market has a real character to it. The community vibe is strong, and the quality of produce is top notch. You’ll find locally grown fruit and veg, handmade cheeses, cured meats, freshly baked breads and all sorts of artisanal goodies. There’s usually a food truck or two, and plenty of great coffee to keep you fuelled as you wander.
It’s also a lovely excuse to explore Lyttelton itself. After the market, you can stroll down to the harbour, pop into some of the local shops or grab brunch at one of the nearby cafés.
Insider tip: Parking can be tight, so if you’re coming from Christchurch, consider taking the bus or carpooling. Arrive before 10am for the best pick of the stalls and fewer crowds.
7. Wanaka Farmers Market – Wanaka
If you’re spending time in Wanaka, the Wanaka Farmers Market is a relaxed midweek treat worth checking out. Held every Thursday afternoon in the town centre, right near the lakefront, it’s a small but carefully curated market that really highlights the region’s artisan producers.
You won’t find rows and rows of stalls here, but what’s on offer is high quality and made with care. Think handmade pasta, small-batch preserves, locally roasted coffee, organic vegetables and treats like brownies and kombucha. It’s a great place to pick up something special or top up your picnic supplies before heading off for a lakeside walk.
The setting adds to the experience, with the lake and mountains close by and often a bit of live music in the background. It’s a peaceful, friendly space that reflects Wanaka’s chilled-out vibe.
Insider tip: The market runs from 3pm to 6pm on Thursdays, so it’s perfect for an afternoon wander. Bring a tote bag and don’t miss the handmade pasta stall — it’s a local favourite.
8. Queenstown Market – Queenstown
Right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, the Queenstown Market brings together local creativity, tasty produce and a stunning location. It’s held every Saturday morning at Earnslaw Park, just a stone’s throw from the lakefront, and is a great way to experience a more local side of this popular tourist town.
While it leans more towards arts and crafts than your typical farmers’ market, there are still plenty of food-focused stalls offering preserves, honey, fresh baking and handmade treats. Many of the vendors are artisans, so you’ll also find jewellery, woodwork, natural skincare and unique souvenirs you won’t see in the shops.
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, and the lake and mountains provide a picture-perfect backdrop for browsing. It’s ideal for a slower-paced morning after a few action-packed Queenstown adventures.
Insider tip: The market usually runs from 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. Head down mid-morning to enjoy the live music and grab a coffee while you wander. It’s a lovely spot to pick up a gift or chat with local makers.
9. Geraldine Farmers Market – Geraldine
Charming and full of country warmth, the Geraldine Farmers Market is a delightful stop if you’re travelling through South Canterbury. Held every Saturday morning in the town centre, this market has a lovely small-town feel and showcases the best of what the region has to offer.
You’ll find seasonal fruit and veg, free-range eggs, artisan breads, homemade chutneys, cheese, local meats and more. Many of the stallholders are long-time locals, and they’re always up for a friendly chat or a recipe tip. There’s also a selection of handmade goods, plants and the occasional live musician to add to the atmosphere.
Geraldine itself is a picturesque little town with boutique shops and cafés, so it’s easy to turn a quick market visit into a relaxed morning outing.
Insider tip: The market runs from around 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. If you’re passing through on a road trip, it’s a perfect spot for a coffee, a snack and a bit of local flavour before you hit the road again.
10. Ashburton Farmers Market – Ashburton
The Ashburton Farmers Market is a true community staple in Mid Canterbury, known for its friendly atmosphere and straightforward, honest produce. It’s held on Saturday mornings in the West Street car park and attracts a loyal crowd of locals looking to stock up on everything from fresh veg and baking to preserves, plants and more.
This market may not be the biggest, but it’s all about quality and connection. Most of the stalls are run by small-scale producers, many of whom have been part of the market for years. You’ll find free-range meats, seasonal fruit, cheese, honey, and a few lovely extras like homemade fudge or handmade crafts.
There’s also a relaxed, welcoming feel to the whole thing. People take their time, catch up over coffee and enjoy a slower pace that suits the rural setting.
Insider tip: It runs from 9am to 12pm on Saturdays. Bring cash, take your time, and don’t leave without trying some of the local baking — it’s always a winner.
Wrapping it up
From bustling city hubs to relaxed rural gems, the South Island is full of farmers’ markets that offer more than just great food. They’re places where you can meet the people behind the produce, discover something new, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of each region.
Whether you’re road-tripping across the island or simply looking for a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning, these markets are well worth a visit. You’ll come away with fresh food, local treasures, and maybe even a new favourite place.
Got a hidden gem we should add to the list? Send us a message and let us know. We’re always keen to explore more.
