The arrival of Covid-19 changed the world in ways we never imagined possible. It drastically affected our lives and turned all upside down.
Our customers and friends told us their stories and how, for so many, it was so hard to make a living. We are Tienda Pachamama, we chose this name back in 2006, because Pachamama represents our mother earth, the Latin American spirit, a sense of community and is our vision. This is why we felt the need to respond to and find a way to assist the Latin American community in New Zealand. That is when the idea of the first 'mercadito' was born. We invited people to bring their creations, foods and goodies and the first Pachamama Latin market was born.
We were amazed by the number of people who wanted to participate and the wonderful foods and crafts they had to offer. The experience was a success and it was clear to all of us that there was a desire for more. Other expressions of our vibrant Latin culture including live music, activities for kids and traditional dances were incorporated. The market provides a great space for many entrepreneurs to launch their businesses, test their products and make themselves known to the community. Artists and performers from South America have a stage where they get the opportunity to perform and express their identity. The market grew and became a place to meet with friends, enjoy live music, and share our culture in all its expressions. It is common to see people drinking mate, eating arepas, ceviche or empanadas, chatting with friends and listening to live music while the kids play.
Pachamama Latin market brings together the most beautiful aspects of Latin American culture: solidarity, togetherness and the joy of sharing. People relate to it in a familiar way. Going to the market every third Sunday of the month is already a tradition, like going to eat with your family or an asado with your friends once a week. It’s an opportunity to feel the vibrant Latin American culture, taste its delicious foods, meet new people or feel at home.
In these uncertain times, when we don’t know when we’ll be visiting our families, when we miss not only our foods and cultures but the closeness of our beloved ones and the familiarity of our language, In these uncertain times, when we don’t know when we’ll be visiting our families, when we miss not only our foods and cultures but the closeness of our beloved ones and the familiarity of our language, the market offers a place to connect, chat in Spanish or bring friends and families from New Zealand to get to know and taste a little piece of South America.
Pachamama Latin Market will reopen its doors and hearts when we are allowed and is safe to do so; bringing the best Latin American foods, crafts, shows and the familiarity of being surrounded by our culture. Meanwhile, we share the stories of the business, entrepreneurs and artists who participate and make the market possible. In these weird times, it’s important that we support each other. Kia Kaha!
Check out the best street foods and artisans from Latin America that make Pachamama Latin market possible. Below you can see their logos and link to order delicious latin fooods or artisanal products from their facebook page (at the end of the page).
Pachamama Latin Market food and artisanal stalls: