Posted by on August 29, 2016 at 04:41 PM in Matakana
The Matakana Farmer’s Market has a reputation as a foodie’s paradise. Located just 45 minutes from Auckland and open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, here are 10 reasons why you should visit the market this weekend.
1. Farm to Plate
Matakana is known for its fresh produce and locally-made products. The farmer’s market is the perfect opportunity to speak directly with the farmers, growers and producers, learning exactly how and where your veggies were grown and about the making of some of the best olive oils, sausages & cheeses that you will taste. You can’t get fresher or more sustainable than that!
2. Food for any appetite
With New Zealand staples such as meat pies and whitebait fritters, as well as mouth-watering international cuisine, with Vietnamese, Italian, and Middle Eastern foods all available, it's impossible not to leave with a full stomach. The wonderful part … they are all made locally with love and passion!
3. Coffee
Do you need a strong caffeine fix to start your weekend? Matakana Coffee Roasters roast their beans in Matakana and will provide the perfect hit that will have you buzzing around the market. You can buy your choice of grind in 250g, 500g or 1kg on the spot!
4. Fresh Roses
Beautiful posies in an array of colours or long stem bunches of high quality, locally-grown roses to evoke that whole country feel in your home or even your holiday or weekend retreat. Pour votre amoureux … a rustic affair!
5. Perfect setting
Located on the banks of the Matakana River, that was once the only form of transporting milk and cream from farms around Warkworth and Matakana in the early 1900’s, the farmer’s market provides you with the perfect spot to unwind and relax in a tranquil ‘country lifestyle’ setting, while taking in the sun and the stalls.
6. City escape
Located just north of Auckland, the market feels a world away from urban life. The slow pace of the village will leave you feeling refreshed and provide the perfect start to a relaxing weekend.
7. Mahurangi Oysters
Located just outside of Matakana, Mahurangi Oysters is a family-run business producing the freshest oysters. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to try these at the market. Watch your oysters being shucked, the freshest and best way to enjoy!
8. One Stop
The farmer’s market is considered to be the heart of Matakana Village and is surrounded by showrooms of local jewellers, artists and locally-made skincare products. You won’t leave Matakana without your senses being tantalised!
9. Live music
Each weekend the sounds of local musicians are heard from the market entrance and like the “Pied Piper”, they will lure you with their authentic and original sounds. A fun and joyous vibration is felt throughout the stalls, providing the perfect backdrop to sampling some of the local delicacies.
10. Spring Farm to Plate Weekend
Interested in a unique, ‘hands-on’ Matakana food experience? Takatu Lodge & Vineyard offers a Spring ‘Farm to Plate’ weekend package for you and your friends to meet some of our local artisan food producers and growers – up close and personal at the farmer’s market. Spend Saturday morning sampling a range of locally-grown ingredients, before returning to the lodge to prepare a sumptuous evening feast. Contact us now to book your fabulous foodie’s weekend away.
