Carolyn Hamill
On behalf of the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board

THE Whakatāne Sunday Market has been located at Mitchell Park for several years and has grown to be a successful, thriving regular event. It is a place where whānau and friends can meet, share kai and support our local food growers, caterers and small business owners. Many of the stallholders are ratepayers and the market provides income for them.

The Sunday market brings vibrancy to our town and is a place for both locals and visitors alike. On average, about 1000 people visit the market, and during peak summer season up to an estimated 3000-plus people.

The benefits to the local economy are great, with some cafes and stores confirming they have a higher amount of customers on a Sunday because of the market.

The Sunday Market organisers have always had a strong community-minded focus and offer stall spaces free to community groups such as Waste Zero Whakatāne, school fundraising groups and political parties before elections.

It is also a prime spot for us as a community board and for Whakatāne District Council to have engagement with the public on various topical issues, such as the long-term plan.

As a community board we would like to take this opportunity to support the organisers of the Sunday Market and acknowledge how much mahi goes on behind the scenes to make it happen every week.

We see the market as a social hub, where all can gather, and we are grateful that it is thriving.

We are also aware of the vision that the council has to improve Mitchell Park in such practical matters as drainage and lighting, to improve this wonderful amenity and future-proof it as a useful green space in our CBD for community events.

If you haven't been down to the Sunday Market recently - come on down and show your support.

Carolyn Hamill

On behalf of the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board