Up the Coast: Matakana-Omaha

Matakana Farmers Market is one of the most well-known farmers markets in the region. From the moment you arrive, the energy of a lively morning greets you — and on market days, the crowds are proof of just how loved this place is.

The wooden stalls and rustic surroundings give it a genuinely old-fashioned, homegrown feel — the kind of place that hasn't tried to be anything other than itself. You'll find a wonderful variety of fresh produce, locally made artisan goods, and clever second-process products that showcase what the region has to offer.

Plenty of little things to discover along the way, too. The surrounding shops add to Matakana's charm: Matakana Market Kitchen and Village Kitchen are firm favourites for a bite to eat, Matakana Village Books is a sweet little bookshop full of beautiful cards and gifts, and Hub — a lovely book café right at the entrance — is the kind of place you don't want to leave.

• Open every Saturday, 8am–1pm, rain or shine
• Bring your own bags or baskets