The passing of Labour Day signals the start of the Cromwell Farmers’ and Craft Market summer season, which in turn means sunny days and abundance of all the produce for which Central Otago is famous for.
As well as the cherries, berries and Pete’s Veggies, there are local cheeses, merino cuts, olive oil, teas, venison salami, fresh sausages, herbs and salads, fresh pasta, honey, jams and preserves, fresh baking, fresh flowers, refreshments, crafts and much more.
Newly appointed Marketing Manager and Site Manager for the Farmers’ Market Committee is Sarah Martin, easily recognisable in her high-vis vest, bringing coffee to this week’s musician.
She and her family managed to leave Piha and relocate to Cromwell just before the recent lockdown.
Part of her job is to liaise between the committee and the stall holders, and she is there bright and early on a Sunday morning to oversee the setting up of the stalls and as she describes – just ‘floating’.
Sarah says, “As I’m new, I am taking the opportunity to get to know all of the stall holders and to see the flow of the market. I am looking to grow the social media presence and to expand the number of market stallholders.”
Currently the market has 16 stallholders, but that will grow as other local products, like cherries and berries, come on stream as the weather improves.
Most visitors take the opportunity to visit the cafes, galleries, jewellers and retail shops in the Precinct, as well as taking in the view with a walk along the lakeside or hiring a rental bike and taking their market picnic goodies along the bike trail.
The market will be held every Sunday from now until Easter Sunday, from 9am till 1pm.
Facebook – Cromwell Farmers’ and Craft Market
