Remarkables Park special projects co-ordinator Olivia Porter said the opening day would be celebrated with giveaways, including 15 free coffees for early birds buying between 8am and 8.30am, face painting and balloon magic, 50 herbs to be given away between 8.30am and 9am and 50 reusable Envirosac bags being given away between 9.30am and 10.30am.
Running every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, the Remarkables Market will continue until Easter 2012, with the exception of Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
The European-inspired market will again feature independent artisans, growers and farmers, selling fresh seasonal produce and locally-produced high quality crafts.
This year, Ms Porter has handed the reins to Sherryn Smith.
Ms Smith said five Wakatipu High School pupils and teacher Megan Ide would be the "friendly market helpers" throughout the entire market season to help with fund-raising efforts for a sister city exchange trip to Aspen.
The pupils would also sell strawberry cuttings and compost at some of the markets.
The were still opportunities for clubs, schools and not-for-profit organisations to raise funds. Local musicians and buskers looking to provide entertainment could contact the market team.
The markets were also still accepting applications from traders but recommended people register early to guarantee their place.
Vendors could secure their stalls in advance for either an 11-week or 23-week period, or on a weekly casual basis, Ms Smith said.
