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Auki Central Market
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Landmark
Auki Central Market, located in the capital of Malaita Province, is one of the most significant commercial hubs in the Solomon Islands outside of Honiara. It serves as the primary economic engine for Malaita, the nation's most populous island, attracting vendors and buyers from across the region. The market is renowned for the sale of traditional shell money, which remains a vital cultural currency for bride prices and land disputes on Malaita. In addition to cultural artifacts, the market gives an extensive selection of root crops, fresh fish, and locally crafted household items. Significant infrastructure improvements, often supported by international aid, have enhanced the market's sanitation and storage capabilities. Daily activity at the market reflects the bustling social fabric of the island, acting as a crossroads where traditional customs and modern commerce intersect.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: St. Augustine Cathedral · Reba Cabe
- Nearby: Fauabu (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 281 | 311 | 285 | 217 | 189 | 193 | 203 | 171 | 170 | 209 | 199 | 232 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Auki Central Market is a lively covered market in central Auki, open to all. Visitors can freely enter during regular trading hours and soak up the local atmosphere.
Typical hours
The market is typically open from early morning until late afternoon, with peak business hours between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Sundays and public holidays may see reduced or no activity.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the market, but it's polite to ask vendors for permission first, especially for close-ups of people. The colorful stalls and produce make great photo subjects.
Time needed
Allow 30 to 60 minutes to browse the stalls and sample local specialties. If you also want to explore the surrounding shops, set aside up to two hours.
Combine with
The market is in central Auki, so you can combine it with a walk along the coastal promenade or a visit to the nearby Auki Government Building. Auki Hostel has basic accommodation nearby.
Getting there
The market is easily walkable from most accommodations in Auki. It's about a ten-minute walk from the Auki ferry terminal; taxis and minibuses also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning for the freshest produce and the liveliest atmosphere. Haggling is common, but keep it friendly and smiling - fixed prices are rarely displayed.
Geography
Facts
- Largest market facility in Malaita Province
- Renowned hub for traditional shell money exchange
- Primary outlet for seafood from nearby artificial islands
- Modernized with support from international development agencies
- Key location for observing Malaitan cultural traditions
- Supports the livelihoods of thousands of rural farmers
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Auki Central Market (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about this market?
It is the city's cultural meeting point with a rich selection of local produce.
What currency is accepted?
Only the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD) in cash.
Is it safe to consume products there?
Yes, but raw fruits and vegetables should always be thoroughly washed.
When is the best time to visit?
Mornings are the best time to see the widest variety of fresh goods.
Can I buy handicrafts there?
Yes, in addition to food, local handicrafts are often available.
Auki Central Market: where is it located?
Auki Central Market is located in Solomon Islands.
Auki Central Market: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Augustine Cathedral, Reba Cabe.
Auki Central Market: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Auki Central Market: why is it worth visiting?
Auki Central Market, located in the capital of Malaita Province, is one of the most significant commercial hubs in the Solomon Islands outside of Honiara.
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Nearby cities
Point Cruz Business District
This district in Honiara is the commercial heart of the country.
Honiara
The capital of the Solomon Islands is located on the north coast of Guadalcanal.
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Kokumbona
A former village west of Honiara that served as the headquarters for the Japanese 17th Army during the Guadalcanal campaign.
Lungga
Lungga is an industrial and residential settlement on the eastern edge of Honiara, located by the river of the same name.
Auki
Auki is the capital of Malaita Province and one of the largest towns in the country.
Auki Market Center
Auki is the economic center of Malaita Province.
Buala
Buala is the capital of Isabel Province, located on the Maringe Lagoon.
Tulagi Island
The former capital of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate.
Tulagi
Tulagi was the former capital of the British Protectorate and is now the capital of the Central Province.
A-Tulagi
The surrounding area of Tulagi includes several small island settlements in the Central Province.
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Fauabu
Fauabu is a mission station on the west coast of Malaita, known for its significant hospital.
Malu'u
Malu'u is a significant settlement in the north of Malaita Island, serving as a regional education and trade center.
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Atori
Atori is an important trade center on the east coast of Malaita and the terminus of the road from Auki.
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Afutara
Afutara is a mission station and settlement on the west coast of Malaita, known for its agricultural center.
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Rua Sura
Rua Sura is a small island settlement off the coast of Guadalcanal, known for its coral reefs.
History & landmarks
Honiara City Council
The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.
Langa Langa Artificial Islands
These islands were built by hand from coral stones in the Malaita lagoon.
Langa Langa Lagoon
A lagoon on Malaita famous for its centuries-old artificial islands and the traditional manufacturing of shell money.
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Kwaio District
A region on Malaita known for its historic resistance to colonial rule and its strictly maintained traditional culture.
Nature
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Indispensable Strait
This wide strait runs between the islands of Malaita, Guadalcanal, and San Cristobal.
Lau Lagoon
This lagoon in northeast Malaita is famous for its artificial islands built by locals using coral rock.
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Mount Galau
Mount Galau is the highest elevation on Malaita Island, located in its south-central region.
Florida Islands
Also known as the Nggela Islands, these islands north of Guadalcanal feature deep natural harbors like Tulagi.
More places
St. Peter's Cathedral, Auki
The primary Catholic church in Auki, Malaita, is a monumental religious building in the region.
Auki Mangroves
The mangrove forests near Auki on Malaita are a vital ecosystem for marine species and coastal protection.
Central Range Malaita
The Central Range runs the length of Malaita Island from northwest to southeast.
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Mount Nasuha
Mount Nasuha is one of the significant peaks in southern Malaita.
Florida Ridge
The Florida Ridge is the central mountain spine of the Nggela Islands (Florida Islands).
Tanambogo Island
Twin island to Gavutu, famous for the desperate Japanese defense in August 1942.
Gavutu Island
A small island near Tulagi connected by a causeway to Tanambogo.
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PT Boat Base Sesapi
Sesapi on Tulagi was a major base for US PT boats during World War II.