Matariki Night Market in Christchurch

Matariki originally refers to a large cluster of stars, also known as the Pleiades. It marks the Māori New Year and it is the time for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future. This year the New Zealand Government has created a new public holiday in order to celebrate the rising of Matariki in the mid-winter sky, marking the changing of the seasons and hence the beginning of the Māori New Year. The first public holiday to celebrate Matariki was on Friday 24th June 2022.

This year's Matariki holiday, perhaps because of what it represents, was also chosen for the winter edition of the Garden City Mākete, a seasonal Ōtautahi market, supporting small artisan makers and creative people. This craft market was held at the Milton St Substation in Sydenham, Christchurch. The beautifully lit building was taken over by the creative community from 4pm to 10pm. Zoozies also had opportunity to be part of it, as one of the stall holders, which was an incredible experience. 

The Garden City Mākete is organised by two lovely ladies, Leah and Christina, who both have experience in running their own small businesses and participating in many markets throughout Canterbury, so it is no wonder it was a huge success.  Hundreds of people were lining up in front of the door to the Milton Street Substation, some waiting over 2 hours to get in! 

There were over 70 stall holders in total, including many amazing craft, jewellery, fashion, homewares, health and plant stalls as well as some food & drink stalls. It was a night full of great food, creative energy and nice atmosphere, all in all it was just fantastic. 

Our Zoozies stall featured all the garments from the first collection - Flora Array Wide Leg Pants, Flora Array Dress, Lupins Silk Dress, Lupins Silk Top, Garden Sweatshirt, Cats cushion as well as some new additions - Watercolour Rainforest T-shirt and Check T-shirt. We also had all the socks and silk scarves there. The Sunflower Merino Socks were by far the most popular and best-selling item! Thank you everyone who took time to visit us and say hello. We look forward to another great event like this!