“It was really tough not doing it last year, so we’re pretty excited about having it back this year.”
Thorpe said the market closure had brought on a lot of feedback from locals and visitors who were disappointed to find it wasn’t happening last summer.
It was great to have it return to help support local growers and producers.
“Every little stall is full, which is great, and we’ve got a good selection of people who’ve supported us for quite a few years in the past and a number of new growers and producers.
“It’s a good combination of shopping and browsing and sitting and having something to eat and all of that sort of stuff.
“It’s got a good little vibe about it, really.”
Frayne Dyke-Walker, left, and Pettina Messervy reorganising the Black Barn Growers' Market in 2023. Photo / Warren Buckland
Market manager Frayne Dyke-Walker said it was horrible telling people the market was off, so when Thorpe called her asking if they should get it back up and running again, she had one answer.
“Hell yeah,” she said.
“I am so excited that so many of the old stallholders still wanted to return and are incredibly enthusiastic about it.
“Hawke’s Bay’s been a little depressed after Covid and after the cyclone, and I just think if we get some decent summer, I think we’ll be back.”
Dyke-Walker said to expect to see old favourites and find some new ones at the market, which will include food trucks, organic growers, local wine producers and distillers, and much more.
“We’ve all been absolutely glued to the supermarket and there are other options out there.
“So, come down and have breakfast or brunch and support local businesses.”
