The Riwaka Market Day will mark its 50th anniversary on Friday, 2 January, cementing its place as the longest-running event of its kind in the Nelson Tasman region.
Held every year, rain or shine, the market has grown from a small community pottery sale into one of the region’s biggest summer attractions. This year’s market will host more than 70 sites packed with pottery, local art and crafts, great food, and children’s activities like lucky dips and fun with clay.
Motueka Pottery Workshop president Lyn Shirley says reaching the milestone is a proud moment for the club, which has organised the event since its inception.
“It’s incredible to think this all started in 1976 and that we haven’t missed a single year,” Lyn says.
“The market is part of Riwaka life, and given its location at the gateway to Kaiteriteri and Abel Tasman National Park, it attracts thousands of out-of-town visitors as well.”
Pottery remains at the heart of the day. Alongside local potters, stallholders this year will include a ceramicist from Rangiora. The club’s own stall will showcase work from beginners through to long-time members.
“It’s a great opportunity for members to showcase their work, and visitors love seeing such a variety of ceramics - and sometimes nabbing themselves a bargain,” Lyn says. “Many potters have started at the Motueka Pottery Workshop and gone on to open their own studios.”
The market also retains traditions that keep locals coming back. Lyn recalls her first visit about 30 years ago.
“I remember the scones with boysenberries and cream. We still sell dozens of these every market day.”
The club’s membership has fluctuated over the years but is now the strongest it has been in some time, with about 45 members and a waiting list.
The 50th Riwaka Market Day will be held at Riwaka Domain from 9am to 3pm on Friday, 2 January. This year, local tourism business Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle is letting market visitors park at their nearby site.
