Thriving at The HIVE

The HIVE’s doors opened in May, and around 30 local vendors now call the Rochester store home, with an overwhelming response from customers and stallholders alike.

“We originally just planned for the six months,” Ms Cain said.

“But because of the overwhelming support from the community, as well as tourists (the store is still open).

“We’ve got 30 individual stallholders so that all the sales go back to them, which means that they then spend money locally and it supports them too.”

The concept of The HIVE is to be a permanent marketplace, offering local artisans and creators a space to showcase their products without the need to travel or move their stock to different towns and events.

“It’s a wonderful thing, it’s more of a community-based shop rather than it being a business,” Ms Cain said.

“We’re here to support those local makers and have a place (that’s) open four days a week.”

The store offers a range of gifts made by locals, from custom-engraved wood pieces to baby clothing, jewellery and art.

Festive decorations and ornaments are also in store to bring the Christmas spirit home.

“We have such a big price range,” Ms Cain said.

“Things like Kris Kringle, teacher gifts and stocking stuffers, and things that you’re not going to find in the shops.

“We’ve also got a big range of gift boxes that are already done for people who just need that instant gift.

“I’m more than happy to put a customised one together and gift wrap it, too.”

Ms Cain is grateful for the community’s contributions, whether shopping at The HIVE or providing their goods.

She really enjoys the environment that she has created.

“The community-minded people that understand what we’re doing in here has been amazing,” she said.

“We also wouldn’t have a shop if it weren’t for the stallholders.

“I absolutely love it. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life, I’m so proud.”