In the heart of Te Puke, a vibrant market has breathed new life into the community. From its inception, this was no ordinary market—it was a genuine, old-fashioned hub of activity, brought to life by the passionate team at the MADE in Te Puke Trust and a dedicated group of volunteers. Headed up by Dale Snell and Kassie Ellis, the market quickly became a cherished, must-visit destination where locals gathered, connected, and accessed a wide range of goods.
It has always been a true reflection of the motto: For our community, by our community. Far more than just a place to trade, the market established itself as a hub for community connection and has been a vital step toward building kai resilience for local families. Through its historic operation and proven success, it has woven a stronger, more vibrant fabric for the Te Puke community.
A Little Something for Everyone
Step into the market and you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere filled with the best of what our local community has to offer. It’s the perfect place for Locals supporting Locals. The categories are as diverse as the people who attend:
- Bric-a-brac & Crafts: From pre-loved treasures waiting for a new home to unique, handcrafted items, the bric-a-brac and crafts stalls are a feast for the eyes and a great place to find a special gift or a quirky piece of decor.
- Fresh Food & Kai Resilience: One of the market’s core missions is to support kai resilience, ensuring families have affordable access to fresh food. You’ll find stalls laden with locally grown veges and fruit, offering a direct link from grower to consumer. This not only makes healthy food more accessible but also strengthens our local food economy.
- Food & Coffee: The market is a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re craving a delicious coffee to start your day or a tasty treat to enjoy while you browse, there are plenty of food stalls to satisfy your appetite.
- Live Music: The air is often filled with the sounds of local musicians, creating a relaxed and cheerful vibe. The live music adds to the market’s lively atmosphere and provides a platform for our local talent.
- Homewares & Much More: Beyond the food and crafts, you’ll discover stalls with beautiful homewares and an ever-changing variety of other goods. You never know what you might find, which is part of the fun!
Key Market Details
The Te Puke Community Market isn’t just about commerce; it’s about people. It’s about Dale and Kassie’s vision to create a space where neighbours can chat, kids can play, and everyone feels a sense of belonging.
If you’re a local maker, grower, or simply have some quality goods to sell, you can join in the fun with a small $10 stall fee, helping to keep the market accessible for everyone.
When and where can you find us? The market runs on the 3rd Saturday of the month, from October through to April.
So, next time you’re looking for a great way to spend a weekend morning, head on down to the Te Puke Community Market. You’ll leave with a full bag, a full belly, and a full heart.