General Collective Are Bringing Back Their Giant Lifestyle and Design Market to Auckland This Weekend

If you've been looking for an excuse to go shopping, you're in luck. After almost a year, Auckland's giant Lifestyle and Design market from General Collective is returning to ASB Showgrounds this weekend.

Pre-COVID, the giant market was a staple on the Auckland calendar. While small markets and plant-focused events have popped up under the brand since 2012, the normally twice-yearly Lifestyle and Design Market has been held at ASB Showgrounds since 2016 and has become a go-to spot for high-end, hand-crafted products from talented local creatives. Over the years, it's estimated over 100,000 shoppers have walked through the doors.

But with the future of the showgrounds in jeopardy, General Collective founder Rose Barbarich says this might be their last at the venue.

"We are so excited to be back at the showgrounds for our flagship market, to welcome so many amazing new creatives and customers eager to get back to live events," she said in a statement from the market.

"But with the uncertainty surrounding the showgrounds, it may well be our last hurrah at this venue."

That gives Aucklanders all the more reason to get down and support small businesses from around Aotearoa. This year's market will debut this Sunday, May 1, and shoppers will be able to peruse a range of art, jewellery, fashion, skincare and children's products — and then sit down for some delicious street food from the on-site vendors. And yes, there's coffee.

Some extra-special additions have joined the lineup this year, including chef Sid Sahrawat (Cassia, Sid at the French Cafe) who'll be debuting a new range of curry sauces and spice kits from his Cassia at Home range, and Ilabb co-founder Matt Saunders will be debuting his new plant-based cleaning product line RAAD. Also on the lineup are MaoriWhai Me who are known for their modern twist on Māori traditions with their blankets, home decor, toys and clothing, as well as EWCement, a local handcrafted concrete decor supplier.

Plus, General Collective favourites from past years will be in the house, including Ribbon on a Bombshell, Koko Body, Gerty Brown, Cook and Nelson, and Dragon Brothers. Pop in this weekend and support local vendors after a tough couple of years.

Auckland's General Collective market returns to the ASB Showgrounds on Sunday, May 1. Tickets are $5 from iTicket or can be purchased at the door.