Rotorua Night Market

Every Thursday from 5 pm, the heart of Rotorua town centre comes alive with music, food, crafts, and plenty of people thanks to the weekly Night Market. It’s a festive atmosphere thanks to the lively comings and goings of locals and visitors, making the most of fitting in as many dumplings, doughnuts, burritos and burgers as possible in one easy place. A variety of ethnic cuisines (including Croatian, Indian, French patisseries, handmade Italian pasta and of course local kai) are all on offer here, and while you’re snacking you can pull up a chair to a shared table and be entertained by local musicians.

When you’ve filled up on food, it’s definitely worth perusing the art, craft and clothing stalls too — some of the best local makers come here to sell their wares, and there’s nothing quite like chatting with the person responsible for making your new mittens, beanie, soap or satchel.