Of The Kumeu Country Market
On Sunday I went out to Kumeu to visit the Kumeu Country Market.The website (and yes, kudos to the organisers for having a website with current information) promised much.“Come out to beautiful Kumeu to stock up on fresh produce, meats, fish, cheeses, gourmet sweets, honey, chutneys, gourmet foods, flowers, art, crafts, jewellery, clothing, live entertainment and much more…”I had started to think about what I’d be cooking this week, and was looking forward to indulging in all things fresh and organic, and talking to the local producers. Excited.It was a nice drive to the Kumeu Showgrounds. Parking was $2 on site, the proceeds of which went to a local school. I was surprised to see how many people would rather park outside the grounds in order to avoid paying. Really? People are that cheap?Anyway, got a park nice and close to the Market. Then time for a recce.
Important information for Aucklanders: there was an ATM on site (note the $3 transaction fee), and there was good Espresso coffee on site.
Entertainment was provided by several acts, including the Ukelele-playing ladies of Tahini Jam, playing classics from the 70's..!There were lots of handcrafted goods. Lots of clothes. Lots of plants in pots. Lots of preserves and jams. There was hot food to purchase. There were cheese merchants. There were a couple of baked goods vendors.There were no butchers. Nope. I was disappointed. A female friend of mine commented that it is always disappointing when you have the expectation of meat and none is available.There were no produce sellers. Well, aside from the Mothers of Riverhills School selling capsicums at $1 each and some particularly nasty-looking fruit options, there was nothing.So back to the cooking drawing-board for me this week.I did see this apron though. Didn't buy it. Manhood challenged. I am so far off being a real man by this definition.
In summary. I think this market missed the mark.It would be a fantastic destination for those looking to buy a gift for that special someone who has everything already, but as a destination for foodies? Forget it.I don’t think I’ll go back.- S