Market day popping up at Bell Block

Now that Taranaki’s summer weather has been showing some signs of having finally arrived, there is nothing more appropriate than to have a market day to get into the swing of things.

It’s yet another sign of the increasing vitality that is becoming such a trademark of Bell Block township that on Sunday, February 19, the Bell Block Pop Up Market will be held at Bell Block School, from 9am to 2pm.

It’s only the second time the pop-up market has been held, but organiser Zoe Shand is hopeful it will become a regular feature in the summer months, weather permitting.

She also the founder of The Seaside Market at Ngamotu Beach in New Plymouth, so knows a few things about running markets.

‘‘Bell Block is my home so it’s always been one of my goals to organise a fabulous market in Bell Block. The first one was held on December 18 last year,’’ she says.

Choosing the school as the site was not coincidental, Zoe says.

‘‘It helps the school financially, which is why we chose this location, and also gives the community something to look forward to.’’

When it comes to the market itself, Zoe describes the eclectic mix which locals and those making the trip to Bell Block will be able to experience.

‘‘There’ll be some sweet Sunday vibes … you’ll be able to shop a great selection of talented stall holders, yummy eats, live musicians and entertainment for the kids.’’

She says that it’s early days yet, and the number of stalls is hard to predict while she is still in the booking process.

‘‘Stallholders can range from home decor, local crafters with everything from sewing to woodwork, artists, fashion, skincare, jewellery and produce along with a great range of tasty street food and entertainment,’’ she says.

You can keep up to date on the FB page – bellblocksummermarket.

Also blooming

Another event sure to attract plenty of attention this week is the New Plymouth Horticultural Society Summer Flower Show.

That will be held on Saturday, February 18 in the Fred Tucker Memorial Hall, Parklands Avenue, Bell Block from 1 pm to 4 pm. Admission is by donation.

So for a varied weekend of activities, you can decide to go to the flower show on Saturday and appreciate the wonderful array of floral artistry on display and then go to the pop up market at Bell Block School the next day.

What more could you ask for?