Queenstown Farmers' Market manager Sharlene Inch was asked for her reaction to tomorrow's launch of the market in Remarkables Park Town Centre - the same day the farmers' market starts for the summer season, on the grounds of St Peter's Anglican Church, in Queenstown.
"Initially, I was a bit tetchy about it happening, but, in hindsight, our location, being central, we attract a lot of visitors and we do get a loyal following," Ms Inch said.
"People going to Remarkables Market will be going that way anyway, for their groceries.
"I don't think they can call it a farmers' market ... because we're affiliated with the Farmers' Markets NZ Inc.
The criteria is there's no middle-man and you're not allowed to have arts and crafts at your market."
Ms Inch said she was approached by Remarkables Park Ltd a few years ago to relocate the farmers' market, "but I couldn't see the attraction of setting it on the side of a car park and you might be setting up in competition with the supermarket as well".
"Visitors love the farmers' market because they feel it's a true community venture, with produce from the farm gate to the plate.
"It's not a business venture."
About 20 farmers' market stalls will open on the church ground on Saturday from 9am to 12.30pm.
The market will operate each Saturday, except Christmas Day, until the end of March.
Queenstown Lakes Mayor Vanessa van Uden will open the market at 9am in recognition of its returns to the community over its five years of operation and its part "in keeping the downtown vibe alive", Ms Inch said.
All previous vendors were to return, except one which no longer operates.
The six additions include fresh vegetables and free range eggs from Deveg, of Lumsden, microbrewery Crafty Beers, of Dunedin and smoked salmon from Stewart Island restaurant Church Hill.
While food store permits are renewed annually, up to 25 stalls are permitted under the non-profit organisation's resource consent, which enables the market to operate for at least another four years, she said.
Ms Inch said she was receiving regular inquiries from new vendors every couple of days.
"The farmers' market is very much an incubator for people looking into small businesses. It's a great way to get your name out there in the public."
Remarkables Park Ltd announced in early October it was introducing its fresh seasonal produce and crafts market.
It will be located about 100m from the main entrance to the town centre.
The market will be open every Saturday, except Christmas Day, from 8am to 1pm, until the end of April.
