Coast to get new market

Two women with a strong pedigree in managing markets are behind Whangaparaoa’s latest market, which began last weekend in Karepiro Drive.

Michelle Vaughan and Leanne Holder have been running the popular Coatesville market for 11 years.

Michelle used to live on the Hibiscus Coast and says that they chose to start a market in the carpark at 15 Karepiro Drive because of its visibility from Whangaparaoa Road and the massive growth in the area.

She says the pair will keep a tight handle on what is sold at the market, with emphasis on local vendors and NZ-made or locally sourced products.

It will also provide three fundraiser stalls each time, which will be free of charge to local organisations or schools needing to raise money.

Live music and entertainment will also feature.

“The main aim for us is to see the community thrive and provide a hub for all the talented folk in the area to showcase their products and make a living out of their hard work,” Michelle says.

The first market was held on Sunday, September 16 with around 80 stalls including crafts, food and coffee. The markets will be fortnightly, with the next one on September 30, 8am-1pm.

They have called the market 25km North in reference to the distance of Whangaparaoa peninsula from the central city – although that is actually around 40km!

Info: email 25kmnorth@gmail.com or look for the market on Facebook.