High demand for Dutch market produce

Every two months the Netherlands Society Rotorua has a Dutch market. Photo / Ben Fraser

The term "going dutch" takes on an entirely new meaning every two months when the Rotorua Netherlands Society holds its market day.

Hundreds of people take the opportunity to gezellig (have a good time) and experience a taste of the Netherlands when they visit the markets.

Rotorua Netherlands Society treasurer Frans Schaeffers said the markets held at Neil Hunt Park clubrooms were busier than usual.

He said the markets were usually packed early, as people come to ensure they do not miss out on olie bollen (Dutch doughnuts).

Mr Schaeffers said demand was so high for these delicacies people practically had to order them.

"At one stage during the morning there was a line of 20 people waiting for olie bollen."

He said the doughnuts were traditionally made on New Year's Eve or at annual fairsbut word has got out theyare made on the spot and demand is growing.

Traditional Dutch food is prepared on the premises and croquettes, raw herrings and smoked eels are also on offer.

Mr Schaeffers said the high attendance was great as one of the society's problems was it needed to attract the next generation of Dutch families.

He said the markets were attracting Dutch expats from Tauranga, Whakatane and Tokoroa who were keen toget a taste of home.

The markets have been running for 20 years but interest has picked up in the past five to six years. The society tries to have markets six times a year.

The next market will be held in the first week of December and coincides with the festival of St Nicholas. Mr Schaeffers said St Nicholas would be in attendance at markets and introduced to children attending.