Culture
26 March 2025
Artisan markets in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Your guide to the top artisan markets around the city.

Best artisan markets in Christchurch
Enjoy shopping sustainably and ethically in Ōtautahi. Whatever the season, this list of local artisan markets will ensure your fashion, homewares, gifts, and knick-knacks are on-trend, all while supporting local.

The Nifty Markets
The Nifty Markets have somewhat of a cult following in Ōtautahi. This funky market was first born at Bennys Barber Shop in 2017 and has continued to grow since. The Nifty community is crafty and conscious with many up-and-coming local businesses’ starting out at the Nifty Markets. Whether you're after handmade clothing, local artisan pottery, crafted jewellery, or preloved vintage garments and homewares, Nifty is the place for you. They now have a permanent store open on Cashel Street selling preloved clothing, but be sure to visit Nifty’s social page for their upcoming market dates.
Good for:
- Local small businesses
- Handmade goods & preloved clothing
- Dog-friendly indoor markets
Garden City Mākete
One of the younger markets to the scene, the Garden City Mākete has had wild success and is held at different locations across the city throughout the year. They’re not just about selling beautiful products; they're also about making a positive impact in our community. Pick up your latest favourite thread, toanga, art or plant from the unique and varied concessionaires. Check their socials page for updates.
Good for:
- Local small businesses
- Ethical gift options
- Preloved clothing


New Brighton Seaside Market
The New Brighton's Seaside Market is a true community affair. The welcoming atmosphere is filled with smells of delicious food every Saturday, sounds of children playing, and musos strumming away. A variety of stalls offer handmade crafts, local produce, and scrummy food. Free face painting is a winner with kids of all ages and the nearby playground will keep boredom at bay.
Good for:
- Live entertainment
- Open-air market
- Nearby playground and face painting
Riccarton Sunday Market
One of Canterbury's largest markets with about 10,000 people through each day, the Riccarton Sunday Market deserves its popularity. With over 200 stalls, you’ll find a bit of everything at these Sunday markets. Hunt out the latest bargains, grab your week's produce, and enjoy the free entertainment. The market is open every weekend except for public holidays but check out their social page for the latest updates.
Good for:
- Food trucks
- Tools & antiques
- Fruit & veggies
Shabby Chic Market Woolston
Christchurch's longest-running vintage market, the Shabby Chic Market, has made its home in the 19th Century Rochester Villa on the banks of the Heathcote River. Once a month, 40+ stalls offer a range of lovingly curated treasures from vintage threads and furniture, to artisan crafts and house plants. Close by, a playground and dog exercise area makes this market visit an all-family affair.
Good for:
- Vintage items
- Open-air market
- Arts and crafts
Christchurch Night Market
The Christchurch Night Market is a permanent night market. With three locations: Hornby market, Ferrymead market and Kaiapoi market and over 80 stalls ranging from food to crafts, there is something for everyone.
Head along to check out their range of stalls from food to crafts, this unique night market is a great place to hang out with friends and family for a casual evening of fun.
Good for:
- Casual
- Open-air market
- Food trucks
- Child friendly
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