
Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market
Christchurch's largest outdoor market offering fresh produce, food, crafts, and secondhand goods every Sunday.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection

Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Christchurch's largest outdoor market offering fresh produce, food, crafts, and secondhand goods every Sunday.
"A must-visit attraction in Christchurch for fresh produce, delicious food, and unique finds."

🎯 Arrive Early for Produce
Get the freshest fruits & veggies before they sell out! :apple:
💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors may take cards, cash is king for quick transactions. :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Local Produce & Artisan Foods
Various Stalls
Discover fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and delicious prepared foods from local vendors. A foodie's paradise!

Secondhand Treasures
Stalls selling pre-loved goods
Hunt for unique clothing, books, homewares, and collectibles. You never know what gems you might uncover!

Maori Taonga & Crafts
Craft and jewelry stalls
Find beautiful greenstone and carved bone jewelry, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Live Entertainment
Central market area
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with free music from local artists adding to the buzz.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for the Best Finds
Check the Weather & Vendor List
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Riccarton Sunday market warning (maybe others too)
🎯 Arrive Early for Produce
Get the freshest fruits & veggies before they sell out!
:apple:💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors may take cards, cash is king for quick transactions. :moneybag:
Best Farmers Market in Christchurch?
Best Markets
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly. Consider public transport.
Weekend markets
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Produce
Get the freshest fruits & veggies before they sell out!
:apple:💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors may take cards, cash is king for quick transactions. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly. Consider public transport.
😋 Sample the Food
Don't miss the delicious food trucks and stalls! Dutch pancakes are a hit.
:ice_cream:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market offers a vibrant community atmosphere with a wide array of fresh produce, delicious food stalls, and unique secondhand finds. While some visitors note a change in the market's composition over the years, many still appreciate the lively environment and the opportunity to discover treasures. It remains a popular weekend destination for locals and tourists alike.
"Small than when I was here 9 yrs ago. But still worth going. Was looking for Maori Taunga for my grandchildren. There were 4 stalls with greenstone and carved bone . Necklaces, earrings, rings etc . Managed to find what we were looking for😀. On an aside the food trucks and stalls were delicious 😋 large range of foods. KS cakes and creations. The cookies were delicious and well worth the money.
Check out her goodies. Yummmmm sorry eaten before thought to take photos. But trees are beautiful this time of year. Blossoms everywhere."
Anne Mahauariki
"Riccarton Sunday Market is New Zealand’s largest outdoor market and a must-visit attraction in Christchurch. Held every Sunday, rain or shine, from 9am to 2pm at Riccarton Racecourse.
By the time we arrived at about 10 am, some locals have already completed their shopping ready to leave. There we also quite a few stall not opened. There were fresh fruits and vegetables, pre-loved goods, clothing, and art, to food stalls serving up a variety of local and international cuisines. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, with free entertainment and music from local artists adding to the buzz.
Entry, parking, and entertainment are all free, making it an accessible and affordable outing for everyone. The market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters, collectors, and foodies alike, and there’s plenty of space to relax with family and friends while enjoying delicious food from the food court. With its wide variety of goods, welcoming vibe, and community spirit, Riccarton Sunday Market is the ideal way to spend a Sunday morning in Christchurch."
Hock Lye, Khaleel, CHAN
"Disappointing! An hour on the buses, one way, to get to the market, then inadequate signage to the market , once on Riccarton Park grounds. (It’s through Gate 5, fyi.) It’s held “rain or shine” - but there were only five lonely vendors (including one with fresh produce) on this rainy day, Easter Monday."
Laura Carolina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located at Riccarton Racecourse. You can drive and park on-site, though it gets busy. Public transport is also an option, with buses frequently running along Riccarton Road.
Yes, there is parking available at the Riccarton Racecourse grounds. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
Several bus routes service Riccarton Road, which is a short walk from the market. Check the Metro Christchurch website for the most up-to-date route information.
The market is held on open grounds, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The pathways are mostly flat, though some areas might be uneven.
The Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market is a short drive or bus ride from the Christchurch city center, typically around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market is free! Parking and entertainment are also complimentary, making it an affordable outing.
The market is open every Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM, rain or shine.
The market operates 'rain or shine,' but it's advisable to check their social media or website for any specific holiday closures or special event hours, especially around public holidays like Easter.
While not explicitly stated, many outdoor markets have policies regarding pets. It's best to check with the market organizers directly or observe if other attendees have pets.
It's recommended to bring cash as not all vendors may accept card payments. While ATMs might be available nearby, it's safer to come prepared.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You'll find a wide variety of items including fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, clothing, secondhand items, crafts, jewelry, and more.
The market aims to feature local produce and products, though some vendors may sell imported goods. There are still many stalls with genuine local offerings.
Absolutely! Look for stalls selling Maori Taonga like greenstone and carved bone jewelry, as well as other handmade crafts and art.
The secondhand stalls are a great place to hunt for vintage clothing and other pre-loved items. Arriving early increases your chances of finding unique pieces.
Some vendors do accept credit cards, but many prefer or only accept cash. It's best to have cash on hand to avoid missing out on purchases.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market boasts a diverse range of food trucks and stalls offering local and international cuisines. Popular choices include Dutch pancakes and Indian food.
With the variety of food stalls, you're likely to find vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask the vendors about their ingredients.
Yes, coffee vendors are typically present, offering a great way to fuel your market exploration.
Definitely! The market is a fantastic spot for a casual Sunday brunch with a wide array of delicious food choices and a lively atmosphere.
Food prices are generally considered reasonable for a market setting, offering good value for the quality and variety available.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture vibrant shots of colorful produce, unique crafts, bustling crowds, and the live entertainment. The blossoms in spring are also beautiful.
It's generally polite to ask vendors for permission before taking close-up photos of their products or stalls, especially if you plan to share them widely.
Morning light is often ideal for photography, offering softer light and fewer harsh shadows. Arriving early also means capturing the market as it comes alive.
The Riccarton Racecourse itself might offer some interesting architectural elements. Focus on the vibrant displays of goods and the people enjoying the market atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public gathering spaces and near event venues. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and make navigating with strollers easier. Pack snacks and drinks, though there are many food vendors. Consider bringing a reusable bag for any treasures you find.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Focus on the secondhand stalls for clothing and gifts. Enjoy the atmosphere and live music without spending a fortune. Grab a delicious and reasonably priced meal from one of the many food trucks.
🛍️ Bargain Hunters & Collectors
Tips for bargain hunters: Arrive right when the market opens to get the first pick of the best items. Be prepared to haggle politely if appropriate, and don't be afraid to explore every stall – hidden gems are often found in unexpected places.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Riccarton Market Experience
While the market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters and foodies, some reviews suggest a shift in its offerings over the years. Some long-time visitors note a decrease in local produce and an increase in imported goods, leading to a less authentic experience for some. However, many still find value in the variety of food trucks and the opportunity to discover unique secondhand items.
To make the most of your visit, arriving early is key to securing the best produce and unique finds. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. While entry is free, bringing cash is advisable for seamless transactions with all vendors.
A Foodie's Guide to Market Delights
When exploring the food options, don't hesitate to sample. Stalls offering fresh produce also often have ready-to-eat items. For those with specific dietary needs, inquiring with vendors about ingredients is recommended, as vegetarian and vegan choices are usually available amidst the diverse offerings.
Popular mentions include the Dutch pancake stall and Indian food vendors, but the market is full of surprises. It's a great place to try something new and support local food businesses. Remember to bring your appetite and perhaps some cash for quick purchases.
Hunting for Bargains and Treasures
Beyond general secondhand items, the market is also noted for its stalls selling Maori Taonga, such as greenstone and carved bone jewelry. These make for meaningful souvenirs or gifts, offering a connection to local culture.
Be prepared to browse thoroughly, as the best finds often require a bit of digging. Arriving earlier in the day generally provides a better selection, especially for popular items like vintage clothing or specific crafts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit