The Riccarton Market by Yasmin

As a Food & Agribusiness major, I was excited to learn we would be going to an open-air food/flea market called the Riccarton Market. Every Sunday, rain or shine, the market is held from 9am-2pm and hosts over 200 stalls for vendors. Despite being a cold and cloudy day, all of the walkways, stalls, and food trucks bustled with life. Everything from gardening tools, knick-knacks, local agricultural products, clothing, and even $15 haircuts can be found here.

At first, it may seem a little overwhelming with just how many options there are for food and shopping, however every vendor found at the market is so special and unique in their own way. While trying to decide on whether to get Thai, American, or Brazilian food I found myself missing the Central American food that reminds me of my home and family. However, I soon stumbled upon Heart & Soul kitchen owned by a woman named Ronni. While ordering a classic New Zealand food, steak and cheese pie, I was able to learn more about Ronni and what brought her to this market. After being in hospitality for five years, she decided to pursue her own passion and open a bakery known for their pies and gourmet toasties. Despite having a store in Christchurch, this was their second week going to the Riccarton Market and business is booming for her. Needless to say,  it was the best meat pie I’ve had in my life.  After absolutely devouring my pie, I stumbled upon Ellesmere Apiaries, owned by a man named Paul Ridden. I had the chance to buy 250 grams of Manuka Honey for about $3 USD whereas in the United States it would be about $15 USD or more. All of their Manuka honey comes from the town of Kaikoura and is their best seller with tourists. I also learned that Paul is a first-generation beekeeper and has been selling honey with his family at the Riccarton Market for about 20 years. 



A group of people walking on a street Description automatically generated


Riccarton Market Food Vendors

For my last stop I ended up at Twixit Tarot owned by a woman from Virginia named Gwen. I was shocked to learn she was from Delmarva as I am too, but awed to learn she moved to New Zealand for love and has lived here for 20 years now with her significant other. I received a tarot reading from her and was told my horizons were brightening and good things were ahead for the rest of my New Zealand journey.



Meat Pie

Whether looking for a quick bite, handcrafted jewelry and clothing, or just a good chat with a local that supports the community, Riccarton market is the place to be. 


Tarot Card Reading

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