Concrete Playground

The point of difference at the Oratia Farmers Market is its location and relaxed atmosphere. Close to the Waitakere Ranges and a 20 minute drive from central Auckland, this place is surprisingly accessible and you’ll find no flimsy temporary stalls here. The cute wooden structures with small blackboards announcing the stallholders’ company names give an old fashioned and inviting feel to the place.

Come here for fabulous dips. The sweet bell pepper with cream cheese dip as well as the smoked paprika, roast pepper and almond dip from Pickled Fig Catering are to die for, and this is the only market you’ll currently find them. The locally produced handmade cheeses are also delicious; I recommend the blue brie. Other highlights include local honey, smoked fish, fresh flowers, fruit jams, fresh spring rolls with dipping sauce and Hakanoa handmade ginger beer and ginger syrup. Once you’ve explored the stalls, sit on one of the benches in the centre of the market or on the grass under a tree and do as the locals do: enjoying the live music with a coffee and a pastry.

Free parking is provided.

When: Saturday: 9am-12pm