This weekend marks the 20th anniversary of the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market, a hub of fresh produce, artisanal craft, and community spirit. From its humble beginnings in 2004 with 50 stallholders to its vibrant present featuring over 35 vendors, the market has grown into an iconic destination beloved by locals and visitors alike. At its heart is a unique story of inspiration and collaboration that brought together two visionary couples, Joe Polaischer and Trish Allen, and Richard and Christine Didsbury.

Today we cover the history of the MVFM and in the following days we feature local market holders that have been instrumental in the market’s success and patronage.

Don’t forget to check out their Matakana Village Farmers' Market 20 year anniversary special event on this weekend, details below.

Saturday, 23 November 2024

8am–1pm (Market), 1pm–4pm (Anniversary Celebration)

It’s been two decades of local flavour, vibrant community spirit, and cherished Saturday mornings — let’s celebrate this incredible milestone together! Join us for a very special day at Matakana Village Farmers' Market.

Here’s what’s on:

• Special Market Morning (8am–1pm): Discover a bustling market day with unique finds, plus your chance to score some surprise giveaways.
• Live Music All Around: Stroll through the market with a soundtrack of local buskers, adding to the festive energy of the day.
• Afternoon Celebration (1pm–4pm): Stay on after the market and enjoy live music from the Pippi Pickers Band, along with words from our founders at 2pm as we honour this special occasion.

Matakana Village Farmers’ Market (MVFM) Story

Two Journeys Converge

In 2004, permaculture pioneer Joe Polaischer and his partner Trish Allen visited a farmers’ market in northern Japan that profoundly influenced their thinking. This market operated on strict principles: only growers within a 30-kilometre radius could participate, ensuring every item was hyper-local. Each stall featured photos of the farmers, their land, and their families, fostering a personal connection between the growers and their customers. The ethos of authenticity and sustainability deeply resonated with Joe and Trish, aligning perfectly with their own commitment to ethical and community-driven food systems.

Photo: Trish Allen

Photo: The late Joe Polaikscher

Meanwhile, back in New Zealand, Richard and Christine Didsbury were hard at work envisioning the transformation of Matakana. Their dream was to create a village that celebrated local culture, sustainable practices, and community connection. When Joe and Trish returned from Japan brimming with inspiration, they presented their vision for a growers-only market at a community AGM. Richard was in the audience, and the synergy was undeniable. With the Didsburys’ land and infrastructure, combined with Joe and Trish’s passion and expertise, the foundation for the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market was laid.

Building a Market with Heart

The market’s creation was guided by the Japanese philosophy of hyper-local, sustainable produce while incorporating the Didsburys’ commitment to creating a vibrant, community-centric space. Together, they worked to establish a permanent market venue on land provided by the Brick Bay Trust. The rustic design of the stalls—crafted from locally milled macrocarpa and supported by wine barrels—reflected their shared vision of sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Terracotta and cream awnings provided shelter, while the stalls showcased fresh, local produce with minimal or biodegradable packaging.

The collaboration extended beyond infrastructure. Joe’s passion for education and sustainability shaped the market’s ethos, with early initiatives like worm farming demonstrations and zero-waste systems. The Didsburys brought their vision of Matakana as a thriving village, weaving the market into the fabric of the community. Together, they created not just a place to shop but a destination where people could gather, connect, and celebrate local artisanship.

A Culinary Champion Joins the Story

No story of the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market (MVFM) would be complete without recognising the significant contributions of Lauraine Jacobs, a celebrated food writer, author, and champion of New Zealand’s culinary landscape. Lauraine has been a staunch advocate for local produce and artisanal craftsmanship, lending her voice and influence to raise the profile of Matakana’s food scene.

In the early days of the market, Lauraine’s support extended beyond her writings. Her deep knowledge of food and her commitment to showcasing the stories behind it resonated with the market’s ethos. She helped connect the dots between local producers and wider audiences, often highlighting Matakana’s vendors in her features and books. Lauraine’s presence at events like book launches and market gatherings has added a touch of inspiration, further reinforcing the sense of community that the market embodies.

Her dedication to celebrating local flavours has not only elevated individual producers but also positioned Matakana as a destination for food lovers. This synergy between Lauraine’s advocacy and the market’s mission has played a key role in its enduring success over the past 20 years.

A Hub for Connection and Sustainability

The MVFM quickly became a community centrepiece. Live music, covered seating areas, and a riverfront jetty turned it into more than just a marketplace—it became a place of belonging. Macrocarpa tables and wine-barrel “leaners” offered inviting spaces for conversation, while the scenic surroundings added a sense of calm and connection to nature.

True to the vision shared by Joe, Trish, and the Didsburys, the market has remained steadfast in its commitment to sustainability. Vendors are encouraged to minimise plastic use, offering biodegradable alternatives and reusable bags. Large pottery containers from local artisans Morris and James were introduced early on for recycling, laying the groundwork for today’s Zero Waste Initiative.

Nurturing Local Entrepreneurs

The market’s impact goes beyond providing fresh, local produce. For many stallholders, it has been a launching pad for their businesses, offering exposure and opportunities to grow their brands regionally and internationally. Journalists and TV crews frequently visit, shining a spotlight on the market and its vendors.

The introduction of a twilight market in 2008 further expanded the market’s reach. Initially held on Wednesdays, it evolved into a Friday Wine Market during the summer, featuring local wines and food to enjoy onsite or take home—a perfect blend of the Didsburys’ vision and the Japanese market’s community spirit.

Challenges and Triumphs

As the market grew in popularity, so did the logistical challenges, particularly around parking. Despite meeting council requirements, the influx of visitors, especially during peak seasons, created congestion in the small village. The community rallied, with a local farmer opening adjacent land for parking during the summer, exemplifying the market’s collaborative spirit.

A Legacy to Celebrate

Now celebrating two decades, the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market stands as a testament to what can be achieved when visionaries come together. Joe and Trish’s inspiration from Japan, Richard and Christine’s dedication to building a vibrant community, and Lauraine Jacobs’ passionate advocacy for local food have created a market that has become a cornerstone of Matakana’s identity.

As the market looks to the future, it remains committed to its founding principles of sustainability, quality, and community. It continues to adapt and innovate, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the region for years to come.

Here’s to 20 years of land, passion, and vision—and to the many more years of fresh produce, artisan craftsmanship, and heartfelt connections that lie ahead.