A friend who had recently moved to Wellington expressed surprise when told there are, not one, but two Martinborough Fairs every year, exactly one month apart.
“Have there always been two?”she wanted to know.
Her answer came from a long-serving member of South Wairarapa Rotary, who advised that, when the very first Rotary Martinborough Fair produced a small loss in 1977, organisers made the brave call to try again a month later.
The second fair produced a profit, and the “dual” model became the template for all subsequent years.
Now one of the largest craft and produce markets in the southern hemisphere, with over 500 stalls and a wide range of gourmet food vendors, Martinborough Fair continues to play a significant role in South Wairarapa Rotary’s efforts to serve the communities of Martinborough, Featherston and Greytown.
Sustainable practices have become a major focus for the organising committee, with improved recycling stations planned for both days, composting of organic waste, and the continued use of eco-friendly marketing materials and digital platforms to promote the fairs.
Coupled with efforts to attract and retain environmentally-conscious stallholders, these practices should ensure Rotary Martinborough Fairs continue to make a positive contribution to the districtfor many years to come.
All proceeds from the fairs are distributed to charities and organisations in South Wairarapa. The 2025 Rotary Martinborough Fairs take place on Saturday 1 February (done) and Saturday 1 March.
Caption: Martinborough Fair-goers use tree and umbrella shelter to rest awhile.
