Aotea Pride: Growers & Makers Market Showcases Local Splendor

Community Spirit: The Aotea Growers & Makers Market at Claris Centre, a showcase of Great Barrier Island’s finest local produce, crafts, and culinary delights. Photos / Manaaki Media

Great Barrier Island’s community spirit was in full bloom at the Claris Centre during March’s Growers & Makers Market, an event that has rapidly become a cornerstone of island life.

Held on the first Saturday of every month, the market is a vibrant display of local bounty, from produce and freshly baked goods to unique crafts and botanicals. The weekend’s event was no exception, drawing crowds eager to support local artisans and growers.

Photographs captured by Manaaki Media, who generously volunteered their services, depict the lively atmosphere and local fare on offer. The images not only celebrating the day’s success but also serving as a compelling invite to the uninitiated.

The market’s success is a testament to the dedication of both the organizers and the community. Newcomers Agnes McGinity, Hannah Gale, and Denise Hettet received a warm welcome as they joined the ranks of existing stallholders, contributing their unique products to the already diverse selection.

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The array of goods—ranging from local honey and flowers to preserves, handcrafted items, and locally roasted coffee—underscores the rich tapestry of our local talent and natural resources.

Saturday’s addition of delicious kai from Pa Beach Cafe further enriched the market’s offerings, providing attendees with a taste of local culinary delights.

In a move to extend the market’s community enrichment, Grow Food Aotea, the organizing body behind the market, has announced a series of gardening workshops slated for the coming weeks. These workshops aim to empower residents with the knowledge and skills to cultivate their own gardens, fostering a deeper connection with the land and promoting sustainable living practices on the motu.

Follow Grow Food Aotea on Facebook for information on upcoming seminars and Growers & Makers Market details.