Southern Farmers Market Invercargill - Sunday Tradition

🌱 Southern Farmers Market happens every Sunday from 9:30am to 1:30pm at the historic Invercargill Railway Station on Leven Street. This free weekly event showcases the best of Southland with locally grown fresh produce, artisan products, and an international food court.

Since 2006, this vibrant market has grown from just 14 stalls to now hosting up to 40 vendors, welcoming around 1,500 visitors each week. It's the perfect Sunday outing to connect with locals, support small businesses, and discover Southland's finest offerings.

Location: Invercargill Railway Station, 2 Leven Street, Invercargill 9810

Contact Details:

• Phone: 027 326 7311
• Email: southernfarmersmarket@hotmail.com
• Website: https://www.southernfarmersmarket.co.nz/

Dog-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and removing them if they become disruptive. A water tap is available near the Community Produce area.

Parking Information:

• Leven Street car parking building (opposite the market): Free, undercover parking on levels 2, 4, and 8 on Sundays
• Additional parking available in The Crescent (short walk)
• Dedicated disability parking in the North carpark near food trucks

Accessibility: Concrete ramp on the south side of the carpark. For wheelchair users, recommended entry points are from the Northern carpark end or via the pedestrian crossing on the East side of Leven Street.

Why Farmers Markets Are Essential to Kiwi Communities 🥕 🍯 🧀

Farmers markets have become a cornerstone of New Zealand's food culture, offering a unique alternative to supermarket shopping while supporting local economies. These vibrant Sunday gatherings provide multiple benefits that extend well beyond just food shopping.

Supporting Local Producers

When you purchase from farmers markets like the Southern Farmers Market in Invercargill, you're directly supporting local growers and artisans. This direct-to-consumer model means farmers receive fair prices for their goods while shoppers get fresher products, often harvested just hours before the market begins. This connection between producer and consumer helps sustain small-scale agriculture and food production in our communities.

Environmental Benefits

Buying locally grown produce significantly reduces food miles - the distance food travels from farm to plate. Most products at farmers markets travel less than 50km to reach consumers, compared to the thousands of kilometers that imported supermarket goods might travel. Additionally, many vendors at farmers markets practice sustainable farming methods, reducing chemical inputs and focusing on soil health and biodiversity.

Seasonal Eating

Farmers markets naturally encourage seasonal eating patterns, connecting Kiwis with the natural growing cycles of their region. This not only ensures you're getting produce at its peak flavor and nutritional value but also helps you develop a deeper appreciation for Southland's unique growing conditions and specialties.

Community Building

Perhaps the most significant aspect of farmers markets is their role as community gathering spaces. In an increasingly digital world, these weekly markets provide valuable face-to-face interactions between neighbors, farmers, and artisans. They become social hubs where conversations happen, relationships form, and community bonds strengthen over shared meals and experiences.

Educational Opportunities

Curious about how your food is grown? Farmers markets offer unparalleled opportunities to learn directly from the people who produce your food. Vendors are typically passionate about their products and happy to share knowledge about growing methods, cooking tips, and the stories behind their businesses. This transparency builds trust and helps consumers make more informed food choices.

Whether you're a local or visitor to Invercargill, the Southern Farmers Market offers a genuine taste of Southland culture and produce. Make it part of your Sunday routine to experience the flavors, craftsmanship, and community spirit that make Southland special.