Montgomery Square and Nelson Saturday Market
A vibrant hub for local artisans and fresh produce, offering unique crafts and delicious street food in a lively community atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get the best finds
Montgomery Square and Nelson Saturday Market
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get the best finds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for local artisans and fresh produce, offering unique crafts and delicious street food in a lively community atmosphere.
"A must-visit for meeting local entrepreneurs and finding unique gifts, food, and produce."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough! Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the market. :parking:
💰 Bring Cash
While some vendors may take cards, cash is king for quick transactions. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Crafts and Local Art
Throughout the market
Discover unique handmade jewelry, carvings, drawings, and more from talented local entrepreneurs.
Fresh Produce and Local Delicacies
Food stalls
Sample delicious street food, grab fresh apples, artisan cheeses, and unique pastries.
Specialty Food Stalls
Food stalls
Don't miss out on options like hangi, whitebait fritters, and unique spice blends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Nelson Saturday Market
Discovering Local Flavors and Crafts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough! Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the market. :parking:
💰 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 to explore all the stalls. :athletic_shoe:
🛍️ Reusable Bags
Help the environment and carry your goodies easily with reusable shopping bags. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough! Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk to the market. :parking:
💰 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 to explore all the stalls. :athletic_shoe:
🛍️ Reusable Bags
Help the environment and carry your goodies easily with reusable shopping bags. :shopping_bags:
📅 Check for Special Events
Sometimes there are special events or collaborations, like with Jameson Festive Market. :calendar: 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Nelson Saturday Market's vibrant atmosphere, diverse array of local crafts, and delicious food options. It's praised as a must-visit for experiencing Nelson's creative spirit and culinary delights. However, the market's popularity means parking can be a significant challenge, and seating for dining is often limited.
"The Nelson Saturday Market is a bustling hub of creativity, offering a wide array of artworks and locally produced goods. From handcrafted jewelry to fresh produce, the market caters to diverse tastes and interests. However, finding parking can be a challenge, as the popularity of the market leads to limited spaces and crowded streets. Despite the hustle and bustle, navigating through the throngs of people adds to the lively atmosphere. Overall, while the market may test your patience with parking and crowds, the abundance of choices and vibrant energy make it a worthwhile destination for a weekend outing."
S S
"I had an absolute blast at the market this Saturday just passed. I bought a lot and would have bought more if I wasn’t flying home. Amazing apple selection at really cheap prices. Great artisan cheeses. Yummy breakfast options at reasonable prices. I even went home with some handcrafted items"
Sandra Boston
"Great options for food produce and handmade gifts/foods.
Really good vibes.
My husband got the hangi for $20 and I got the whitebait fritter for $16. Then we got some pastries for $6.50 each. A few other stalls had pastries for a bit more money.
Not enough seating for eating."
Amy Avocado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located at Montgomery Square in Nelson. Driving is a common way to get there, but be aware that parking can be challenging on market days. Public transport options might be available depending on your location within Nelson; check local transit schedules.
Parking is available around Montgomery Square, but it can fill up quickly due to the market's popularity. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from alternative parking spots.
Cycling is a great option if you're local. There are usually bike racks available, offering a convenient way to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Nelson Saturday Market is generally free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase from the vendors.
The market typically runs on Saturday mornings, usually from around 8 AM to 1 PM. It's always a good idea to check local listings or social media for any specific date changes or extended hours.
Yes, the Nelson Saturday Market is a regular weekly event, making it a consistent weekend destination for locals and visitors.
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, handcrafted jewelry, art, carvings, spices, and unique gifts.
Absolutely! The market offers a great selection of street food, from breakfast options and pastries to more substantial meals like hangi and whitebait fritters.
While there are food vendors, dedicated seating can be limited. It's advisable to be prepared to eat standing or find a nearby public space if available.
The market is generally navigable, but it can get crowded. Paved pathways help, but be mindful of the throngs of people.
Yes, public toilets are usually available at the market for visitors' convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you're welcome to take photos to capture the vibrant atmosphere and unique finds. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their products or stalls.
Look for colorful produce displays, intricate handcrafted items, and lively interactions between vendors and shoppers. The general buzz of the market itself makes for great candid shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving earlier in the morning to avoid the peak rush, making it easier to navigate with strollers. While dedicated seating can be scarce, finding a nearby bench or a less crowded spot to enjoy your market finds can be part of the adventure. It's a great way to introduce children to local culture and entrepreneurship in a fun, relaxed setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some artisan crafts can be pricier, there are often smaller, more affordable items like handmade soaps, candles, or unique stationery that make for great souvenirs without breaking the bank. The free entry is a huge plus, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and browse to your heart's content without any initial cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Nelson's Community
Beyond the crafts, the market is a celebration of Nelson's rich agricultural heritage. You'll find an abundance of fresh, locally grown produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, and delicious baked goods. It's the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for a home-cooked meal or to sample some of the region's finest flavors.
For those looking for a unique culinary adventure, the market's food stalls are a must-visit. You can savor authentic street food, from hearty hangi and delicate whitebait fritters to sweet pastries and refreshing drinks. It’s an excellent opportunity to taste the local cuisine and support small food businesses.
Navigating the Market Experience
Once you're in the market, the atmosphere is lively and bustling. While this adds to the charm, it also means navigating through crowds. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking to explore the numerous stalls. Bringing reusable shopping bags is also a good idea for carrying your purchases and being environmentally conscious.
While many vendors accept card payments, it's wise to have cash on hand for smaller purchases or for vendors who may be cash-only. This ensures you don't miss out on any unique finds. The market also provides toilet facilities, adding to the convenience for visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit