Ponsonby’s community spirit is taking on new life thanks to local resident and neighbourhood enthusiast Ryan Richards, who is bringing a brand-new Christmas market to Ponsonby’s stunning new urban jewel, Te Rimutahi at 254 Ponsonby Road.
For Ryan — who lives just a couple of hundred metres away on O’Neill Street — the idea wasn’t sparked by a business plan, but by something far more personal. This is a not-for-profit initiative driven purely by community spirit.
“I walk through this beautiful new civic space almost every day,” he says. “And I kept thinking… this is the perfect location for a community market.”
Ryan had followed the progress of Te Rimutahi closely and was thrilled when it finally opened.
To bring the market to life, Ryan has partnered with fair&good — a New Zealand not-for-profit that connects consumers with ethical brands. Together, they’re inviting a welcoming line-up of both ethical New Zealand brands and local Ponsonby businesses, with the aim of creating a warm, inclusive, community-driven event.
He’s also working with local volunteers to secure performances from neighbourhood musicians and choirs throughout the day.
Calling all stallholders: Ryan is still welcoming enquiries, with several stall spaces available. Local Ponsonby businesses receive a discounted stall rate of $84. “If you’re keen to be part of it, we’d love to have you! Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
The Te Rimutahi Christmas Market takes place 9:30am-3pm on Saturday, 13 December 2025.
Email Ryan at ryan@kiaoraponsonby.co.nz
or learn more here:
https://kiaoraponsonby.co.nz/te-rimutahi-xmas-market
