Rotorua’s successful night market to expand

Rotorua’s inner-city night market will take over another block to accommodate families who want to spend more time at the market but have been unable to because of a lack of seating.

The market, which started in 2010 and has steadily grown in popularity since, runs every Thursday in Tutanekai St between Haupapa and Pukuatua Sts from 5pm to 8pm in winter and to 9am in summer.

Members of Rotorua Lakes Council’s strategy, policy and finance committee heard from project manager Brigitte Nelson today (Wednesday 4 November) that the two cash machines near the market each took on average $75,000.

The majority of that goes straight to local retailers, she said.

But market organisers have noticed that families do not tend to stay long as there is nowhere comfortable and appealing to sit and linger so the family can eat together.

Councillors agreed to a proposal to expand the Night Market further south down Tutanekai St to the block bordered by Hinemoa and Pukuatua Sts.

“Allowing families to spend more time at the market by providing an additional family-focussed area with entertainment will add to the success and vibrancy of the market .|.|.| and provide retailers at the market and surrounding shops with increased trade,” she said.

“While empty shops have been a key issue for the inner city, the block in which the Night Market is located has not had an empty shop in the five years it has been operating.”

The expansion is expected to be a cost neutral operational project.

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