Centre city market to grow
Foodies are being targeted in a revamp of Porirua’s Saturday morning market, a project city leaders hope will bring more business into the CBD.
In April, Porirua City Council will spend $ 134,000 installing power outlets and water taps in Cobham Court car park for use by market stallholders, mayor Nick Leggett says.
The upgrade is the latest stage of the city’s revitalisation scheme, and should attract a greater variety of stalls, from hot food to craft and fresh produce.
‘‘ This is a pretty significant change for the market, and will provide the sort of infrastructure required by a modern market featuring quality food stores.
‘‘In time, the market will be a key feature of the city centre experience,’’ he says.
‘‘ A revitalised market introduces people to the idea of shopping in the centre of town in an area that would otherwise be quiet at this time of the week.’’
Weekend markets are growing in popularity across the Wellington region but Mr Leggett says Porirua should not try to emulate successful markets at Chaffers Marina or in Lower Hutt.
‘‘There’s so much competition now, we actually have to find our difference, what’s unique and what will attract people,’’ he says.
Next month, the council will also decide whether to permanently extend the market’s hours till noon on Saturday, or retain a 10am finish. Power and water supply will allow large events such as fairs in Cobham Court.