The concept of a large, diverse regional market has been more than three years in the making, Shelley says.
‘‘After moving to Rangiora, we were looking for a perfect spot for a busy, colourful market.
‘‘We went to talk to the Rangiora Racecourse, and they were keen to free up some land for the project.’’
The initiative was consented by the Waimakariri District Council late last year, and the race has been on since then to blend a mix of produce and quality artisan crafts, to create a point of difference with other markets in the region.
‘‘Our approved application was for 150 stalls,’’ Mark says. ‘‘As the population in North Canterbury continues to grow, we feel there’s a real need for somewhere people can go to browse a wide range of interesting goods and foods, listen to some great music, and just take in the atmosphere of a big market.’’
‘‘We see it becoming a great drawcard for visitors from throughout Canterbury and further afield.’’
Creating that mix of purveyors and products has been a big job, they say.
‘‘Competition’s one thing, but we’ve tried to be very selective when it comes to choosing stallholders. We’re aiming for a top-quality market, with enough on offer to appeal to a wide range of tastes.’’
A case in point is a food court offering meals with a difference, as opposed to standard fairground takeaway vendors.
The market, sponsored by Wilson Print, will kick off on March 8 with around 50 stalls. Mayor Dan Gordon will cut the opening ribbon.
It will then run every Sunday year-round, from 9am to 2pm, at the racecourse on Lehmans Rd.
