The Shepherdess Muster is coming to Tokanui, Murihiku Southland, from 6 – 8 March 2026 and we’re looking for stallholders to help create a rich and vibrant experience. Whether you’re a potter, jam maker, jeweller, jersey knitter, run a gardening shop – or offer something else you think would be a great fit – we'd love to hear what you have to offer our crowd of approximately 300 rural wāhine who will be attending The Muster.  

Please see below for more information about being a stallholder at The Muster and if you are interested, please submit an Expression of Interest form below.

If you have any questions throughout the process, please do not hesitate to contact our Stalls, Health & Beauty Coordinator, Greer – via [email protected] 

Cost 

The cost for stallholders to attend The Muster is $519 (incl GST) per person.The cost includes full catering throughout the weekend – six delicious meals, plus supper and morning and afternoon teas. There will be a coffee cart on-site to get your coffee fix, and a bar on-site for refreshments.  

You’re welcome to attend guest speaker sessions and workshops whenever it fits around running your stall. 

Accommodation 

The cost of your ticket includes the option to bring your own camping set-up - tent, caravan, campervan, horse float, or just camp in the back of your ute! We will provide toilets and showers, but please note there is no power available in the camping area. 

Pre-set-up tents are available to book at an additional cost. The paid tent set-up includes a comfy foam mattress, pillow, full bedding, and basic lighting. There are both two- and three-person tent options. Please enquire for more information on tented accommodation pricing.

On-site Set-up 

The Shepherdess Muster will be held at the Tokanui Rugby Club (81 Turner Road, Tokanui). The stalls will be located under a marquee, providing basic shade and shelter. Stallholders will be allocated an around 2.5m x 2.5m space on grass to set up their stall. We ask that stallholders bring their own tables and chairs, and anything else that they might need for their stall. These outdoor sites do not have access to power, and internet access may be limited due to the event’s location.  

Security for your property and equipment will be your sole responsibility. Facilities at The Muster are basic – such is the nature of offering the event in a remote location – and we ask that you please work with us to make the most of the facilities that we do have.

Key Dates & Timings 

• August and September. Expressions of interest will be assessed by the Muster Project Team and the Muster Committee. If we have any questions, Greer will be in touch.  

• Wednesday 29 October 2025 – If you’re selected as a stallholder you’ll need to complete an agreement form and pay your invoice by this date, at the latest, to confirm your place at The Muster 2026. Once that’s done, we’ll be able to start promoting your involvement – the earlier, the better! 

• Friday 6 March 2026 – Load-in begins 11am. Your spce must be set up and ready to go before 3pm.  

• Sunday 8 March 2026 – The event finishes at 1pm. You can start your pack down after 1pm, and be loaded out your space by 5pm.

Opening Times During the Event 

• We ask that you are open from at least 3pm through to 6pm on the afternoon of Friday 6 March during event registration. After 6pm, there is a formal welcome followed by food and entertainment for all. You can participate in the festivities or staff your stall from 7pm to 11pm. 

• Stallholders are welcome to then open from Saturday morning until noon on Sunday, with The Muster attendees wandering through the market stalls throughout the weekend. More information on times to be open will be available upon confirmation.

Sponsorship Opportunities 

 
We are currently seeking sponsors and supporters to bring The Muster to life. It's also an opportunity to have your brand associated with the event and reach a wide audience. If you are interested in seeing our Sponsorship Prospectus, reach out to Greer – via [email protected]

shepherdessmuster.co.nz