By ALANAH MAY ERIKSEN
The future of Rotorua's Farmers' Markets does not look promising with not enough stall holders involved.
The fifth market was held in the City Focus yesterday with only two stall holders participating.
One of the organisers, Wendy Morgan, said when the markets started in November there were seven stalls and it was expected that number would grow with more than 14 participating, but interest has faded.
"There is public support there but we just don't have enough stall holders to keep it going. It's a very disappointing result here today. I would hate to see it fold."
She said even a man taking part in the International Two-Day Walk stopped in during his trek to buy jam.
"He's a regular. It shows that the people like the market and still want it here. The markets are in a good central place for everyone, easy access."
Held every third Sunday of the month, the markets are open to anyone living in the central North Island keen to sell fruit and vegetables, cheeses, wine, meats and plants.
Our Town Meats owners Regan and Leila Rodwell, from Tokoroa, have been taking part in the markets since they started, selling salami they make themselves.
"The markets are great, we sell quite a bit of stuff and you quite often see the same people coming back for more," Mr Rodwell said.
The couple, who went into business three years ago, say the market was a great idea and could potentially bring a lot of people to Rotorua if more stall holders became involved.
"It's usually just us and another stall here, it never really got off the ground which is quite sad. They don't really have anything like this in [Tokoroa], just a summer market."
The markets are organised by Retail Rotorua.
Ms Morgan said she would discuss the market's future with co- organiser Graham Brownrigg.
* People interested in selling their wares can contact Mr Brownrigg on (07) 349 3910.
Rotorua Daily Post
