At the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges and set beside the Artisan Wines vineyard, Oratia Farmers' Market is another great country market. If you are planning on heading west for the day, this is the perfect place to pick up some picnic nibbles. The cute wooden structures with small blackboards announcing the stallholders’ company names give an old-fashioned and inviting feel to the place. This is one of several markets you'll find NZ Cheeseman's top notch handmade cheeses. Other highlights include Earthbound honey, plenty of fresh produce, smoked fish, flowers, fresh spring rolls from Kay's Asian Herbs and Food and Hakanoa handmade ginger beer.

Once you’ve explored the stalls, sit on one of the benches in the centre of the market or on the grass under a tree, and do as the locals do: enjoy the live music with a coffee and a pastry. Free parking is provided.