Are there any cash-out facilities

There are two ATM’s in Martinborough situated on Kitchener Street in close proximity. 

Note: there is often a queue for both machines and they have been known to run out on Fair day so it is advisable to bring cash with you. 

A number of stallholders do have mobile EFTPOS available as well.

Each year we try to have the ANZ ATM module on site.  It houses four ATMs.

If it's available, the unit will be set up outside the Fire Station on Texas Street East (Opposite the playground/Town Hall/Waihenga center)

Can I bring my dog/s to the Fair?

We would appreciate it if you leave your dog(s) at home. 

With up to 30,000 people attending the Fair there is not much room for dogs on leashes in amongst all those human legs. 

Temperatures in Martinborough can often be in the high 20’s if not low 30’s at the Fair being in summer, and the majority of stalls are on the road so it can’t be very nice for your pet pooch walking on hot asphalt with no water readily available

Can we get food and drinks at the Fair?

There are a number of Food & Drink outlets around the Fair. 

There are approximately 40 Food stalls as part of the Fair and then there are a number of popular Café’s that are one of the reasons Martinborough is such a popular destination at the weekend.

How do I get to the Martinborough Fair

There are several ways of getting to Martinborough.  The most direct way if travelling from Wellington via the Rimutaka Hill is via SH53 which goes from Featherston at the foot of the Rimutaka Hill Road through to Martinborough.

As this is the most direct route it can also be very busy so an alternate route which may take 20 minutes longer but will avoid the usual traffic build up can be found here

Travelling from Greytown you can join either of the above routes as seen here

If you are coming from further north of Carterton the best route is via Ponatahi Road

You should be prepared to spend some time in a queue as there are regularly up to 30,000 people attending the Fair each day.

Is there an entry fee?

There is no fee to visit/shop at the Martinborough Fair. 

There may be a small fee for Parking in some places around Martinborough but this is set by independent groups who look after parking.

What Parking is available at the Fair

There is generally plenty of parking around Martinborough.

On roads

All around Martinborough there are a network of roads that are available for free parking.  Don't be put off by the number of people parking way back on highway 53 coming into the town, drive on through to Martinborough town and turn left or right at Princess street to access the rings of streets that surround the town.  You will find lots of kerbside parking within good walking distance of the town centre where the Fair is held.

In fields

Parking is also provided by a number of independent organisations primarily as fund-raisers for their group.  These are set up in fields around town and are generally advertised by a sign at the gate or entrance.  One is on Princess street North, another on Princess street South, There is also usually a parking field in Cork Street and on Strasbourgh Street.

Disability parking

Cork Street, behind the Waihenga Center and town hall has been set aside for people with mobility challenges to park.

Bus parking

Cork street behind the Pukemanu hotel has a section set aside for tour buses.

What public transport is available for getting to and from the Fair?

For bus timetables follow this link to see details of the 200 Bus Service which starts in Masterton and comes to Martinborough via Carterton, Greytown and the Featherston Railway Station.

Private bus companies also run special services to the Fair from around the country.

When is the next Martinborough Fair?

The 2022 Martinborough Fair will be held on the 30th of April and the 26th of November

It is usually the first Saturday of February and March each year but due to COVID, we have postponed the April 30th and November 26th.

The Fair officially starts at 8:00 am and runs through to 4:00 pm.

Where are the toilets?

There are public toilets located at the Playground on the Eastern side of the Square, opposite the Fire Station. 

In addition there are a number of Port-a-loo’s located at the outside end of each street that the Fair is on. 

One or two large truck/trailer units housing 12 flushing toilets can also be found near the old Town Hall, opposite the Fire Station. 

See the map here  for more details.

Forgotten username/password

Username

If you have forgoten your username, you can retrieve it by clicking on the log-in button and choosing Forgot your UserName? from the links at the bottom of the login page

As long as you can remember - and still have access to - the email address you used to create the account, your username will be sent there.

 

Password

If you have forgotteen your password, it's a similar routine.  Click on log in and choose 'Forgot your Password?'

Again, so long as you have the original email address, a password reset link will be sent to that address so you can reset the pasword.  You can reset it to the same as before, up to 5 times, then you must choose a new one.

 

Both

As you will probably guess, if you forget both username and password, you can still fix it - you just need to get your username, then use that to reset your password.

 

Email address

If you no longer have access to the email address you set up the account with, then you will need to contact the data administrator with proof of ownership, to have the email address changed.

I no longer have access to the account email address

If you have changed your email address since last year - don't worry, just log in to your account and change it in your profile.

If you have ALSO forgotten your password and/or account UserName - you will need to contact us and we can tell you your username and reset the email address for you so you can reset the password.

PLEASE don't just create a new account - it makes extra work for our volunteer convener and it puts your application in the 'New applicant' category with no prior claims on any sites. 

Only returning stallholders are processed in the first month, all others must wait until our returning stallholders have had their sites allocated. This means that your previous site can be allocated to someone else and you won't hear about your success or not until after the 15th.

If there's no room left by then, your application will be declined.

What's the difference between 'Registration' and 'Application'

Registration is where you set up an account on this web site to store your application data.  This is intended to make application easier for you.

Application is where you apply for a stall site at a Martinborough Fair.

Once you have made your first stall site application, the data is stored for you and your next application is pre-populated from there next time you apply for a stall site.

How do I apply for a stall – I was a stall holder previously.

Previous stallholders will have registered on this site already and have an account with a username and a password.  Your account will be linked to an email address.

If you have NOT yet registered on this site, you will need to do so using the Register button.  If you are told that the email address is already in use, that means you do already have an account, and you need to try to remember your user name and password.

If you can't remember them read the forgotten credentials FAQ (under the logging in tab) about it before emailing for assistance.

So, assuming you have registered your account:

Log in to our web-site using the Log In button and select the 'Stall Application' menu item to APPLY for your stall for the current year.  

Once you have submitted your application, remember to pay your stall fee. If paying by Bank transfer, our bank account number will be provided on your application acknowledgement email.

When we receive your payment, we can evaluate your proposal get the application process under way.

How do I apply for a stall – this is my first time?

The best place to start is on the Stall Application Process page. (Having checked the front page for the latest status) Read the instructions.

What does it cost to have a stall at the Fair?

The Martinborough Fair is budgeted on there being two market days so site fees cover both Fair days and all applicants are expected to commit to both fairs.

The prices will depend on your setup and are listed in the general information page.

Normally, if a stallholder decides not to come to one fair or the other, they should let us know and we will try to fill the spare slot, and if we can, we will consider a refund, subject to administration cost retention policies in force at the time.

Can I apply for one Fair day?

The Martinborough Fair normally operates over two days, but we have separated the days by one month.

This has the advantage of offering our stallholders and visitors a better chance of a successful day's business each year as it would be very unusual for both days to suffer from adverse weather or other limiting conditions.

As a result, we expect stallholders to commit to both Fair days on application.

If you are unable to make it on one or other of the scheduled days, you still apply and pay for both, but let us know in your application what your plans are.

It is not always easy to fill a single fair day, but we will try to get a replacement on your behalf and if we are successful, may consider refunding one day's site fees less an administration fee.

Can I rent multiple sites

Yes you can. 

Multi-site applications can be achieved by making multiple separate stall applications and paying for each one separately.

Can I share a stall site?

Site sharing must be discussed with the Convener first.

Two food vendors will not normally be able to share a site due to food handling and licensing requirements.

Stall sites may be shared, but not sub-let.

The site cost may be shared, but for no more than a reasonable share of the established site fee.

All products intended to be on sale are to be listed on the application form, and the fact that the stall is to be shared noted in comments, but one person will take responsibility for application, payment and dealing with fair management regarding all aspects of the stall site and its use.

Can I skip a year and yet retain the stall site I love

If you just can't make it one year, but fully intend to be back, let us know, and we can make sure the stallholder your site is allocated to knows it is a temporary placement.

Can you please confirm if there are spaces left in/at ....

Check the site front page for updates on that.

For a normal year (Feb/March fairs), returning stallholders' paid applications are processed first during the month applications open, with the expectation that they can return to their previous sites or be transferred if possible. 

At the end of the first month, all paid applications are then processed and any remaining sites allocated on a first come basis.

For those reasons, we can not know what sites are likely to be available until after the opening month.

We do try to place applicants according to their expressed preferences, but reserve the right to place stalls at our discretion.

When do I have to apply and pay by

You should be paid within 14 days of application. 

Normally, applications open 1st October and we allocate returning stallholders during that month.

After October, (December in 2022) all other applications are processed and will be allocated any sites not yet claimed by returning stallholders.

If you want to secure your site from last year, you need to have your application in and paid before the end of the first month.

If you don't get your application in before the end of the first month - don't be surprised if your site is given to somebody else - and they will have first dibs the following year.

When do stall applications open

Stall applications normally open on the 1st of October. (December for the 2023 market)

Getting your application in as soon after that as possible will help in stall allocations.

Normal operation:

Returning stallholders who apply and pay in the opening month will be processed first.  

From the following month on, all PAID applications are processed in a first-come first-served basis.

We insist on payment before processing because we have found it time-consuming chasing people for payment otherwise.

This way, if you don't pay, your application will not be considered and so we can be confident that stallholders we have allocated sites to have paid.

Why do I have to pay on application?

We insist on payment before processing because we have found it time-consuming chasing people for payment otherwise.

This way, if you don't pay, your application will not be considered and so we can be confident that stallholders we have allocated sites to have paid.

We are generally able to accommodate most applicants, so it will be unusual for your application to be turned down.

It will only be on grounds such as unsuitable product lines, incompatible site requirements (e.g. unusual power or size requirements) or previous misbehaviour, that an application will be declined.

Check the  stallholder guidelines for information on site restrictions.  If you satisfy all the criteria, you will probably be welcomed to the Fair.

Once we are approaching capacity, we will advertise the fact on this website and when full, we will still take applications from those who wish to be put on the waiting list.

If we are unable to accommodate you for any reason, your site application fees will be refunded in full.

 

Notes: Getting your application in as soon as applications open will help in stall allocations.

Returning stallholders who apply and pay in October will be processed during October.  

From the 1st of November on, all PAID applications are processed in a first-come first-served basis.

Refunds

Refunds will be made at the discretion of the Convener based on the reason you are unable to make it to one or both of the Fair Days.  If the Convener is advised more than two weeks prior to the February Fair date, a refund is possible, although 25% of the claimed amount may be retained as an Administration fee.

No refunds will be given due to inclement weather or any other circumstances beyond our control.

I am unable to attend the (Feb/Mar) market but would like to attend the other Fair. Is that possible?

Answer. 

The Martinborough Fair normally operates over two days, but we have separated the days by one month.

This has the advantage of offering our stallholders and visitors a better chance of a successful day's business each year as it would be very unusual for both days to suffer from adverse weather or other limiting conditions.

As a result, we expect stallholders to commit to both Fair days on application.

If you are unable to make it on one or other of the scheduled days, you still apply and pay for both, but let us know in your application what your plans are.

It is not always easy to fill a single fair day, but we will try to get a replacement on your behalf and if we are successful, may consider refunding one day's site fees less an administration fee.

Cash exchange

Cash window

Stallholders can get change and rationalize cash holding at the cash exchange service that is run out of the Martinborough Fire Station.  The cash window will be open at the front of the building.

If I arrive on Friday evening where can I stay in the vicinity of Martinborough?

Some stallholders camp in their caravan on the road around the square somewhere near their stall site on Friday night so they can make an early start to setting up. (Please don't camp in the grassed area of the square)

Booking of more formal accommodation needs to be arranged well ahead due to the popularity of the Fair.  Many late-comers find they can only find accommodation as far away as the Hutt Valley or Masterton.

Powered sites

There are 7 power supply boxes around the Fair for use by stallholders who have applied for power.

It is the responsibility of each power user to provide their own extension leads to connect to the power outlets and to ensure all cables and appliances are safe and have been tested and tagged.

All cables that are exposed to foot traffic must also be protected mechanically. Strips of gaffer tape will not be adequate.  Use carpet strips or purpose made cable covers that will withstand 50,000 feet standing on them and being kicked and pummeled by feet and wheels all day.

Oxford street and Cambridge Road

These two supply boxes are mounted on power poles.   You will need a small ladder to reach these outlets.

Leads run from these boxes must be protected by RCD units. Any cables exposed to foot traffic must also be physically protected. Gaffer tape is not enough. Lengths of carpet or purpose built cable covers must be used.

Mitre 10 Car park

Powered sites in the Mitre 10 car park can run leads in through the Mitre 10 roller doorway or from Pain and Kershaw. Use RCD protection for these supplies.

Memorial Square (under the trees)

Four power boxes are mounted on poles around the South-Western sides of the square. One opposite the Martinborough Hotel, one opposite the Mitre 10 car park, and two are mounted over the road from the Jellicoe Stree entrance. 

All these four power box outlets are already protected by RCD units back at the main supply panel. Users must still ensure all cables and equipment connected to these boxes are certified safe. 

Memorial square atrium

The main power distribution box in the middle of the square will have a few spare outlets for use by stallholders who have applied and paid. They are all protected by RCDs.

 

Is electricity available for stalls?

Yes, there are a limited number of stalls where electricity can be provided at a fee over and above the fee for the stall site.

Extension cords

All extension cords are the responsibility of the stallholder and must be adequately protected where crossing public areas. All electrical equipment used on your stall must be tested and tagged by an authorised tester.

Generators

Generators will only be allowed under special circumstances and with prior written approval.  If circumstances are deemed to warrant the use of a generator it will be required to meet stringent noise and emission standards and must be approved by Fair management BEFORE use.

When should I set up my stall

Our traffic management plan as filed with Transit NZ calls for road closures between the hours of 8am and 4pm on Saturday, and the District Council allows us to use public reserve areas during the same times.

We are allowed some setup/tear-down time, so cars may use the roads while sites are being set up, typically from about 4am to 7:30am for set-up, and tear-down time from 4pm to around 5pm.

Roads around Martinbourough Square are open and may not be obstructed outside those times.

Once set up, the Fair runs from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm officially but we often have people “shopping” from 7:00 am onwards. 

Many stallholders start setting up in the small hours of the morning with the centre of Martinborough buzzing by 5:00 am. 

Your car/van/truck needs to be outside the road closure area by 7:30am so it's probably a good idea to aim at arriving in Martinborough no later than 6:00am to unload, get the car parked somewhere away from the stall areas and set up your stall ready for a busy day.

Food Stall licensing

The District Council keeps a very close eye on food preparation and provision at the Fair.If you are selling ANY food, whether you are preparing it yourself in some way, or simply on-selling packaged human consumable food, you MUST have been issued a licence to do so for this event specifically.

Previous licences or permissions for other events are not considered valid and you risk being closed down on the day if you do not comply.

Food stall providing food that can be consumed at the Fair should register under the Food/Drink (consumable on site) Category, other foodstuffs like honey, water, olive oil or packaged tea/coffe etc, should choose Food/Drink (Other).

On-site food stalls will conrtibute towards health and safety costs, as well as the SWDC licensing fees. ($60)

Packaged product will only incur the licensing fee ($20)

The stall application form will include a section where you can provide all the information required to applying for a SWDC food stall license. If the applicant is a registered food business, they will need to provide a scanned copy of their current registration certificate.

We will forward the application information to the Council and pay any fees, and they will contact the applicant if there are any questions.

The Council will evaluate your application and then inform the Convener of their decision, at which point, we will be able to finalise your stall allocation.

Food Trucks

Sites are nominally 6x3 metres but there are sites at the end of a row, or street, or in open areas that could be used to accommodate a bigger vehicle.  But we need to know about it before-hand.  Sites are not flexible, they are pre-marked in grids and there is no leeway.


We also need to know about extractor positions so we don't place you next to a clothing stall with the resultant danger of claims being made against you for damage.

General info about sites with access to power

There are 7 power supply boxes around the Fair for use by stallholders who have applied for power.

It is the responsibility of each power user to provide their own extension leads to connect to the power outlets and to ensure all cables and appliances are safe and have been tested and tagged.

All cables that are exposed to foot traffic must also be protected mechanically. Strips of gaffer tape will not be adequate.  Use carpet strips or purpose made cable covers that will withstand 50,000 feet standing on them and being kicked and pummeled by feet and wheels all day.

Oxford street and Cambridge Road

These two supply boxes are mounted on power poles.   You will need a small ladder to reach these outlets.

Leads run from these boxes must be protected by RCD units. Any cables exposed to foot traffic must also be physically protected. Gaffer tape is not enough. Lengths of carpet or purpose built cable covers must be used.

Mitre 10 Car park

Powered sites in the Mitre 10 car park can run leads in through the Mitre 10 roller doorway or from Pain and Kershaw. Use RCD protection for these supplies.

Memorial Square (under the trees)

Four power boxes are mounted on poles around the South-Western sides of the square. One opposite the Martinborough Hotel, one opposite the Mitre 10 car park, and two are mounted over the road from the Jellicoe Stree entrance. 

All these four power box outlets are already protected by RCD units back at the main supply panel. Users must still ensure all cables and equipment connected to these boxes are certified safe. 

Memorial square atrium

The main power distribution box in the middle of the square will have a few spare outlets for use by stallholders who have applied and paid. They are all protected by RCDs.

What size power outlets are available

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The Martinborough Fair is a fun day for visitors and we welcome musical entertainment that adds to the enjoyment of everyone associated with the Fair. 

Although the streets and parks of the  Martinborough village precinct, including Memorial Square, are ‘closed’ for the duration of the Fair, we follow the South Wairarapa District Council’s policy relating to music in the public space.  In particular we refer to the sections about volume and appropriate lyrics. that basically says – Any person busking or conducting a street performance, or other such activity must not cause any nuisance or obstruction to any person using any public place    

Our intention is to enable musicians to also have fun while performing at the Fair, so these few guidelines are designed to avoid issues or problems that are foreseeable, especially relating to site/location and amplified volume: 

  • On arrival at the Fair go to the Information Centre in the middle of the Square. You’ll be introduced to whomever is liaising with musicians on that day. There are some dedicated sites for musicians, and you’ll be assisted to find your site(s).
  • Some sites are more popular that others so, to rotate access, we ask that you play for no more than an hour before moving on to another site. So not only will you get to play in a different place, it also gives the stall holders adjacent to the site a variation in music throughout the day.
  • Volume of music and speech through amps and PA systems is the most common cause of complaint, and it’s an issue we and you can simply avoid through good communication, especially by occasionally checking with neighbouring stall holders. 
  • Amplified music should not, in general, be significantly louder than acoustic production. Generally, if your neighbours are comfortable with your volume and music style, then all is well.

NB Most of our musicians are solo, duo or trio.  For larger bands we have set aside the staging area in front of the Town Hall where higher amplification is suitable.  Performance times in this location are usually programmed prior to the Fair day, so if you wish to book a playing time please contact us.   We want you, together with everyone else at our Fair, to have a good day.  We don’t expect to have disputes but if that happens then the situation can (if your efforts fail) be resolved by our music coordinator.  

For any issues on the day, contact our head office on the day at the Fire Station in Texas Street East.