Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, visiting local markets is a tradition steeped in history that never fails to delight. It’s a love affair that stems from our desire for social interaction, allows us to discover the new and unique, and, more than ever, delivers on our yearning to support local businesses, access fresh local produce, and live more sustainably.
From the iconic Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne to the rich tapestry of diversity at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin or the charming Matakana Village Farmers Market, Australia and New Zealand have an abundance of must-visit markets. So, whether it’s just down the road or a stop to add to your travel itinerary, head to one of these ten markets to indulge in fresh produce, diverse local delicacies, unique arts, or handmade crafts – you won’t be disappointed!
1. Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne, VIC
One of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, Queen Victoria Market is a historic landmark (dating back to 1878) and a vibrant hub of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and handmade crafts. Typically, open Tuesday through Sunday (excluding Wednesday), the market also operates seasonal night markets throughout the year. Head along this month to catch the Summer Night Markets, which end on 13 March.
2. The Rocks Market – Sydney, NSW
Nestled in the heart of Sydney, The Rocks Market has a backdrop that’s hard to beat. Set amidst picturesque historic architecture, the cobblestone streets come alive on weekends with street performers, unique artworks, crafts and souvenirs, and delectable food offerings. Local artisans and vendors often man the stalls themselves, allowing you to meet the makers. Once you’ve had your fill of the markets, be sure to explore the fascinating history of the area.
3. Salamanca Market – Hobart, TAS
Every Saturday, Salamanca Place is transformed into a bustling hub for over 300 stalls. Established in the early ‘70s, the Salamanca Market showcases the beating creative heart of Tasmania with a huge selection of products from local artists, creators, and producers to taste, enjoy and take home!
4. Eumundi Markets – Sunshine Coast, QLD
Renowned as Australia’s biggest and best artisan market, the Eumundi Markets promises local handmade treasures aplenty! Guided by the ethos of ‘Make it, Bake it, Sew it, Grow it,’ you’re guaranteed to find something special. The markets are home to a whopping 600 stalls, so you might want to plan your route (or visit both Wednesday and Saturday) to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
5. Fremantle Markets – Fremantle, WA
Established in 1897, the Freemantle Markets offer a mix of fresh produce, gourmet foods, fashion, and handmade crafts in a historic setting. Known as a hub for showcasing and encouraging local Freemantle talents, the markets are open Friday to Sunday every week and are one not to be missed.
6. Adelaide Central Market – Adelaide, SA
One of Australia’s largest undercover produce markets, the Adelaide Central Market, is open Tuesday through Saturday. Here, you’ll find ocean-fresh oysters, just-picked produce, and generally some of South Australia’s finest fare. With a curated selection of 70 traders, the Adelaide Central Market is enduringly popular with locals and is also South Australia’s most visited tourist attraction.
7. Mindil Beach Sunset Market – Darwin, NT
Perched beachfront in the Northern Territory’s capital, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market is the perfect spot to soak up the sunset while enjoying diverse culinary delights. Considered a Darwin institution, the markets take place every Thursday during the dry season. And with more than 30 distinct international flavours, including Aboriginal, Islander, Thai, Indonesian, Chinese, and European fare, you’ll have plenty of reasons to head along more than once!
8. Otago Farmers’ Market – Dunedin, New Zealand
Easily accessible from the Dunedin Railway station, the Otago Farmers Market is an authentic farmers’ market that operates every Saturday morning, rain, hail or shine. Providing locals and visitors the opportunity to sample local growers’ and producers’ finest, freshest – and mostly organic – offerings, it’s here you’ll get a taste of the Otago region’s rich, vibrant agricultural community.
9. Matakana Village Farmers’ Market – Matakana, New Zealand
No list of markets in New Zealand would be complete without a visit to the jewel that is Matakana. The charming Matakana Village Farmers Market is set on the banks of the Matakana River and is open every Saturday between the respectable hours of 8 am and 1 pm. It’s a picturesque spot to indulge in live music, Italian-style sausages, locally brewed beers, freshly ground coffee, freshly baked goods, and so much more. The markets focus on sustainability and zero waste, so don’t forget the reusable coffee cup and tote bag.
10. Avondale Sunday Market – Auckland, New Zealand
An absolute Auckland institution, the Avondale Sunday Market is less about a lazy Sunday stroll with coffee in hand and more about taking in the sights, sounds and smells of New Zealand’s biggest one-day market. The market starts at 5 am, well before the sun comes up, and stallholders are turned away if they’re not on-site by 7 am. You’ll find an eclectic mix of arts and crafts, Pacific Island and Asian specialty goods, fresh produce, and second-hand items as you wind your way through a higgledy-piggledy maze of gazebos and stalls operating out of car boots.
Hit the markets and immerse yourself in the very best of local
No matter where you go in Australia and New Zealand, you are bound to find a unique and exciting market to explore, full of weird and wonderful people and things to buy and try. If visiting markets further afield leaves you wanting more of the destination, contact your local First National Real Estate office. Your friendly local real estate expert can provide you with deeper insight and helpful guidance on making the move from visitor to resident.
DISCLAIMER
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial, or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial, or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.