Although the great state of Auckland has its fair share of sprawling supermarkets and towering malls, it seems the North Island's quaint local markets are still as relevant as they were in the days before ubiquitous convenient stores. Attracting discerning shoppers from all over Auckland and across the country the idyllic village thoroughfare experiences on offer at the city's markets is a tried and true Auckland tradition that isn't showing any sign of receding anytime soon.
When it comes to great arts and crafts markets Auckland has more than a few choices up its sleeve as a plethora of specialty handicraft markets are scattered across the region. Highlights include the Botany Town Centre Craft Market, Saint Helier's Art and Craft Market and Clevedon Village Market at the Clevedon Community Centre which offers artworks, jewellery, gifts and collectables at reasonable prices. The Laingholm Art Market is ideal for those in search of carved, woven and fine art items while the Awhitu Country Market in Matakawau is famed for its exquisite woodworks and handicrafts.
Shoppers in search of freshly plucked produce have a myriad of choices when it comes to sprawling country markets that stock provisions locally produced by farmers. Albany Farmers' Market with its gleaming fruits, vegetables and delectable chocolates is one such choice while others include the City Farmers' Market, Parnell Farmers' Market with its organic goods, Devonport Farmers' Market and the Franklin Market with over 60 stalls selling everything from jams to pickles.
The Seafood Market on the Corner of Daldy and Madden is Auckland's only all-week fresh food market which is renowned for its fruits, vegetables, fresh fish and top-notch meat products. The 'Look, Cook and Eat' experience is also on offer at the market's resident Seafood School while foodies will also enjoy Coatesville Market and its scintillating collection of cakes and other delicious treats.
Those in search of antiques should head down to the Collectors Market at Remuera where collectibles from all over New Zealand are brilliantly displayed alongside fantastic antiques. Visitors on the lookout for a traditional country market lined with homemade baked goods, vinyl records, natural therapy products and vintage clothing will love the Helensville Market where the kids can also enjoy a pony ride while the adults browse through the maze of intriguing stalls.
Serious fashionistas however must stroll over to the historic Victoria Park Market, City Designers Market and the Ponsonby Road Market where designer wear and accessories are available at attractive prices.
When it comes to luxury
hotels in Auckland NZ, one establishment that embodies prestige and class is The Langham Auckland. Ideally located along tranquil Symonds Street in the centre of the city this five-star rest is also one of the most conveniently located
Auckland hotels in the area.
