Retro revival to mark long weekend

Stu Guyton and Kat Kemp have been busy preparing for the launch Riverton's first Retro Revival...
Stu Guyton and Kat Kemp have been busy preparing for the launch Riverton's first Retro Revival weekend at King's Birthday weekend. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Riverton is set to launch its first retro revival this King’s Birthday weekend.

Market organiser Stuart Guyton said the township had a long-standing reputation for having one of the best second-hand shops in the region, which he hoped to capitalise on.

In collaboration with the Riverton Community Op Shop, the new two-day market will be hosted at multiple Palmerston St venues from May 31 to June 1.

Vintage books, toys, games, retro fashion and furniture alongside mid-century decor, homewares and curiosities, will be on offer for those looking for something classic from the era.

"Whether you’re a serious collector, a family looking for a great day out, or someone who just loves vintage style and nostalgia, there’ll be something for everyone."

Mr Guyton said while he had "scaled back" his initial vision, he hoped the planned annual event would "be seeding something that may get bigger" as an end of autumn, early winter draw card.

Along with the coastal township’s Te Hikoi Museum and other attractions, Riverton’s main street would host a plethora of pop-up shops and more than 20 stalls in five locations for people to browse.

"Riverton has always been a place where people come to discover something unexpected," organisers said.

"There’s a real culture here of vintage, reuse, collecting and storytelling.

"The Retro Revival is about bringing all of that together into one vibrant community weekend.

"If the weather is beautiful, it’ll be an incredible seaside weekend, and if it’s cold or wild, the shops and venues will be warm, cosy and full of treasures," Mr Guyton said.

He encouraged visitors from Invercargill, Dunedin, Queenstown and beyond to make the trip and explore the township.

The event would also coincide with Riverton’s monthly Sunday community market which is home to local arts, crafts, produce and home-made goods.

Cafes and food trucks will also be operating throughout town alongside Kiwiana favourites including a sausage sizzle and Mr Whippy.