Street and Flea Markets in Christchurch New Zealand

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and offers an array of markets to visitors and locals. Most of these are held over the weekends but there are some that operate during the week.

Tourists to Christchurch are often keen to visit the street markets and find some local fare. Here are some of the main attractions that are held regularly in the city.

The Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market

This market is immensely popular and is the biggest of its kind in New Zealand. It was started by the Rotarians in 1989 and after trying a number of locations, a permanent location was found at the Riccarton Racecourse.

The Riccarton market has an average of 300 stallholders and is open every Sunday from 9am to 2pm regardless of the weather. Visitors can choose from a wide range of goods including antiques, fresh produce, furniture, arts and crafts, plants and second hand goods. There are a number of food stalls and after a morning of shopping, people can relax with some delicious hot food and a cold drink.

The Arts Center Weekend Market

This market is held next to The Arts Center in Christchurch city. In keeping with its location, it offers an array of arty-type merchandise made by some of the best craftspeople in New Zealand. Items of interest include glassware, woollen clothing, wood carvings, handmade jewelry, pottery, scarves and other crafts. Food stalls and caravans tempt visitors with a variety of foods including Thai, German and Lebanese and street buskers provide entertainment ranging from music and singing to performing dogs.

The Arts Centre Market has an average of 80 stall holders and is located on Worcester Boulevard in Christchurch central. It is open from 10am - 4pm every Saturday and Sunday, regardless of weather conditions.

Cathedral Square Market

Cathedral Square is the center point of Christchurch city and home to a number of activities and events. The Cathedral Square Market is open every day and most stalls keep to the hours of 10am to 4pm. The Square is always busy and tourists and locals browse through racks of merino and possum garments and admire greenstone carvings. There are a number of handcrafted items for sale and these include woodwork, shells and jewelry. Other wares include fashion clothing, sunglasses and bags.

A number of food stalls and caravans offer a mix of ethnic and traditional foods and spicy aromas entice hungry shoppers. While relaxing, visitors can enjoy the buskers who are always present in the Square.

Visitors to Christchurch have a fine selection of markets to choose from and whether they are looking to sample international cuisine, purchase local crafts or find a bargain, they are bound to find what they are looking for in the Christchurch markets.

Reference:

Canterbury & Christchurch What's On - Travel Guide