Whether you are a local or just visiting, there are some great markets to explore every weekend in Christchurch. From Saturday morning farmer’s stalls at Christchurch markets, through Sunday sessions at the lively night markets, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your simple, accurate guide to making the most of them.
Christchurch Markets Saturday: Start Your Weekend Right
Your Saturday morning starts off best with the Christchurch Farmers Market at Riccarton House on Kahu Road. This market operates every Saturday from 9am to 1pm and is one of the city’s favorite spots to grab fresh bread, local cheeses, seasonal fruits and veggies, and a cup of great coffee.
Another market to consider is the Lyttelton Farmers Market on London Street. This market is considered the jewel of the Christchurch market scene on Saturdays. Every Saturday from 10am to 1pm, you can find a stunning market with live music and the best smoked fish and pastries you’ve ever tasted! Don’t forget to drive through the tunnel to get here.
In the New Brighton area of the city, the New Brighton Seaside Market operates every Saturday from 10am to 2pm in the New Brighton Pedestrian Mall. This market features food trucks, live music, face painting, a bouncy castle, and the beach! Just remember to check the weather forecast first.
For handmade and artisan products, The Seekers Mākete operates every Saturday from 10am to 3pm in the Market Square at The Arts Centre – Te Matatiki Toi Ora.
Christchurch Markets Sunday: Keep the Weekend Going
Sunday is when Christchurch markets really shine — and there are two very different experiences on offer.
For the best Sunday market experience in Christchurch, or perhaps the whole of New Zealand, look no further than the Riccarton Sunday Market at the Riccarton Racecourse. This enormous Sunday market is open every Sunday from 9am to 2pm and features everything from second-hand treasures to plants, tools, clothing, and a massive food court.
For a more genuine Sunday market experience without the crowds of the Riccarton Sunday Market, the Opawa Farmers Market at 275 Hawford Road is the place to be. This Sunday market is open every Sunday from 9am to 12pm and is the best place to do your grocery shopping in the city – spray-free produce, fresh bread, etc.
For a Sunday market experience with a difference, the Riverside Market is the place to be – located in the CBD and open 7 days a week from 7:30am to late. Great place to visit on a Sunday – just don’t expect the traditional Sunday market experience or any actual market stalls – this is an upscale food court.
Night Markets: The Weekend After Dark
When the sun goes down, Christchurch comes alive with night markets across the city.
For a Thursday night fix, the Hornby Night Market is on at The Hub undercover from 6pm to 10pm. Good food, craft, and entertainment whatever the weather.
Friday nights see the weekly spot at the Bush Inn Night Market, Bush Inn Centre car park, Riccarton, from 5pm to 9pm. Your reliable weekly street food fix with a fun and multicultural atmosphere.
The Ferrymead Night Market at Ferrymead Heritage Park is a special monthly market and not a weekly event. Make sure you check their social media before making the trip to ensure you don’t turn up to a closed gate.
Quick Reference Table
| Market | Day | Hours | Quick Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch Farmers’ Market | Saturday | 9am – 1pm | Fresh produce by the river, Riccarton House |
| Lyttelton Farmers’ Market | Saturday | 10am – 1pm | Crown jewel — harbour views & live music |
| New Brighton Seaside Market | Saturday | 10am – 2pm | Families & beach vibes; weather-dependent |
| The Seekers Mākete | Saturday | 10am – 3pm | Artisan crafts at The Arts Centre |
| Riccarton Sunday Market | Sunday | 9am – 2pm | NZ’s largest outdoor market — everything! |
| Opawa Farmers’ Market | Sunday | 9am – 12pm | Real grocery shopping — 275 Hawford Rd |
| Riverside Market | Daily | 7:30am – Late | Upscale food hall; great for rainy days |
| Hornby Night Market | Thursday | 6pm – 10pm | Undercover at The Hub |
| Bush Inn Night Market | Friday | 5pm – 9pm | Best weekly Friday street food spot |
| Ferrymead Night Market | Monthly | Check socials | Special event — not weekly |
Quick Tips
- Most of them offer EFTPOS or bank transfer options, but cash is useful for small produce items at places like Opawa
- Arrive early at the farmers markets, as the good items get snapped up quickly
- Save the address for Opawa: 275 Hawford Road – it is easy to drive past this one
- Check out the social media for Ferrymead or any other outdoor market as the times can vary
From your Christchurch markets on Saturday morning at Lyttelton Harbour to the Christchurch markets on Sunday Racecourse, and a Friday night feast at Bush Inn, your weekend is sorted! Get out and explore Ōtautahi. Learn here about all Christchurch markets.