Discover Masala Bazaar: A Vibrant Blend of South Asian Roots and Kiwi Creativity
Masala Bazaar in Auckland is more than just a curated boutique — it’s a unique space where culture, entrepreneurship, and women’s stories beautifully intertwine.
Founded by a passionate South Asian woman entrepreneur, Masala Bazaar has attracted attention across media outlets and is regarded as a standout presence in its field.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything that makes Masala Bazaar so special — from its mission and origin story to its product selection and hands-on workshops.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
- What is “Masala Bazaar”? A Truly Unique Cultural Marketplace
- The 4 Key Features That Define Masala Bazaar
- The Story Behind Masala Bazaar’s Creation – One Woman’s Journey
- Product Lineup & Workshops You Can Join
- [Workshop Experience] I Tried the Candle-Making Workshop!
- Meet the Creators & Brands Behind Masala Bazaar
- Masala Bazaar｜Access, Opening Hours & Visitor Tips
By the end, you’ll feel much closer to the heart of Masala Bazaar and what it represents.
But first — take a quick look at their official website or social media to catch a glimpse of their vibrant world:
- Official Website: https://masalabazaar.co/
- Instagram: @masalabazaarco
- Facebook: Masala Bazaar
- TikTok: @masalabazaar
1. What is “Masala Bazaar”? A Truly Unique Cultural Marketplace
Masala Bazaar is a curated space featuring art, crafts, fashion accessories, fragrances, and more — all created by South Asian women entrepreneurs.
But it’s more than just a shop, it also serves as a platform where cultures meet — a place where Desi (South Asian) and Kiwi (New Zealand) influences blend together, and where female creators with South Asian roots gather to share their work and stories.
What is “Desi”?
“Desi” is a Hindi term that refers to the culture and people of South Asia — particularly regions like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
It is often used in phrases like:
- “Desi culture” – traditional South Asian culture
- “Desi community” – South Asian communities living outside their countries of origin
- “Desi food” – cuisine from the South Asian region
The Meaning Behind the Name
The word Masala, in languages like Hindi and Urdu, means “a blend of spices” or “a mix of ingredients.”
It also carries a broader nuance — something vibrant, diverse, and full of flavour.
Combined with Bazaar, a Persian-origin word meaning “marketplace,” the name “Masala Bazaar” expresses a vision of a vibrant cultural marketplace — where ideas, cultures, and people come together, creating a colourful and stimulating harmony.
2. The 4 Key Features That Define Masala Bazaar
Masala Bazaar serves both as a select shop and a creative platform.
Its main features can be summarised in the following four points:
- A fusion of South Asian traditions and contemporary design
- A focus on slow fashion and one-of-a-kind handmade items
- All products are created by women-led microbusinesses
- Workshops and other events are regularly held in a dedicated space within the store
Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
⚫︎ Fusion of South Asian traditions and contemporary design
At Masala Bazaar, you’ll find a wide range of items that blend traditional South Asian craftsmanship and cultural essence with New Zealand’s contemporary aesthetic.
For example, many pieces are based on traditional hand-weaving techniques from India and Pakistan, but are infused with modern touches in colour and detail — offering a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
⚫︎ Slow fashion and handmade one-of-a-kind pieces at the core
All products are handcrafted or produced in small batches, reflecting the values of so-called “slow fashion.”
From accessories and candles to artwork, Masala Bazaar focuses on one-of-a-kind items that carry a sense of warmth and individuality — something you won’t find in mass-produced goods.
⚫︎ All products are created by women-led micro-businesses
All of Masala Bazaar’s products come from women-led micro-businesses, with a diverse selection of brands featured at any given time.
Many of these entrepreneurs are women of South Asian heritage or immigrant backgrounds, and each brand carries a deep connection to cultural roots and personal stories.
⚫︎ Workshops and Community Events Held In-store!
At Masala Bazaar, it’s not just about shopping—visitors can also take part in hands-on workshops held in a dedicated space inside the store.
One of the most popular offerings is the Candle Making Workshop, where participants can create their own original scented candles. It’s especially well-loved for the personalised and relaxing experience it provides.
Later in this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience in the section:
“5. [Workshop] I Tried the Candle Making Experience!“
[Reference] The 5 Core Values Masala Bazaar Stands By
- Empowering Small business communities
- Honesty and Transparency
- Respect for our cultures
- Conscious consumerism
- Mindful of our environmental impact
3. The Story Behind Masala Bazaar’s Creation – One Woman’s Journey
The founder of Masala Bazaar is Haya Khan, who studied Law and Communications at the University of Auckland.
Masala Bazaar originally began in 2018 as Masala Scents, a candle brand inspired by the aromas of South Asia.
A Respected Female Entrepreneur in the Business Community
Haya Khan is widely recognised as a prominent female entrepreneur within the business circles of Parnell and Auckland.
She has been featured multiple times in various media outlets, including The New Zealand Herald and RNZ.
In addition, she was also selected as a finalist in the “Community Contribution” category at the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards, hosted by the Auckland Business Chamber.
Summary of the Origin Story
(*Partially quoted from the official website)
[2018] While pursuing a career in law, she had a turning point.
One evening, while juggling law school, an arts degree, and an internship at a law firm, she began to feel a deep longing for the warmth of “home.”
That moment awakened her creative side.
Driven by nostalgia and a sense of longing, she launched Masala Scents, a candle brand rooted in South Asian heritage and made with environmentally friendly materials.
Encounter with the Desi Community
In an unexpected place, she came across a quiet yet vibrant community of Desi (South Asian) entrepreneurs in the Instagram business world.
This community, born out of the struggles during lockdown, was a group of creatives seeking to express their talents and passions.
[2020] Began operating pop-up events under the name Masala Bazaar
[2021] Held a full-scale pop-up for 3 months
[2022] Opened a permanent store in Parnell
References:
The full founding story is explained on the official website, and you can also check out the following features:
- New Zealand Herald feature article:
“Small business: Masala Bazaar owner on breaking the ‘stereotypical lens’ for South Asian businesswomen”- RNZ feature article:
“Candlemaker finds a match with like-minded creatives“
4. Product Lineup & Workshops You Can Join
At Masala Bazaar, every item is carefully curated with a focus on handmade craftsmanship and small-batch production.
Looking at these beautiful creations might just spark your own creativity and leave you feeling inspired to start something of your own.
Below is an overview of the main product lineup — and don’t forget, a variety of workshops are also held in-store.
4-1. Product Lineup
⚫︎ Scents & Candles
Natural soy wax candles and Arabic-style perfumes.
⚫︎ Accessories
Earrings and necklaces made from polymer clay or gold-plated materials.
⚫︎ Bags & Small Goods
Handmade fabric bags and embroidered pouches.
⚫︎ Clothing
Garments made with South Asian techniques such as handwoven cotton and natural dyeing.
⚫︎ Art & Cards
Watercolour paintings, art prints, and seasonal greeting cards.
⚫︎ Others (Tableware, Ceramics, etc.)
Pots, plates, and small dishes featuring South Asian-inspired designs.
4-2. Workshops
⚫︎ Candle-Making Workshop
One of the most popular workshops at Masala Bazaar is the Candle-Making Workshop, which uses natural ingredients. [Advance booking required]
The materials used are carefully selected, including eco-friendly soy wax, essential oils, and scents inspired by South Asia.
⚫︎ Block Printing Workshop
The Block Printing Workshop (“KARIGARI”) offers a hands-on experience of making tote bags using a traditional method of stamping patterns onto fabric with hand-carved wooden blocks. [Advance booking required]
You can freely create your own designs using wooden blocks handcrafted by Indian artisans, choosing from a variety of patterns inspired by both New Zealand and South Asian motifs.
5. [Workshop Experience] I Tried the Candle-Making Workshop!
At Masala Bazaar, candle-making workshops where you can create your own original candles are held regularly. [Advance booking is required]
Based on my personal experience, here’s an overview of what the candle-making workshop is like:
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Fee: Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.
The workshops are held in a dedicated space within the store called the Masala Studio.
Introduction by the Staff
The workshop began with a clear explanation of the overall process.
Even for those not confident in English, the staff spoke slowly and used simple language, which left a very good impression.
Choosing Your Favourite Scent
You’ll then choose your favourite scent from around 50 different fragrance options, arranged on both sides of the table.
The standard is to choose three fragrances, but you’re welcome to pick just one or two based on your personal preference.
Personally, I had never really been interested in scents before, but I found the process of discovering my favourite fragrances surprisingly enjoyable.
In the end, I chose “Noel,” “French Pear,” and “Coconut Lime.”
Blending with Your Own Original Ratio
Following the recommended mixing ratios suggested by the staff, you gradually blend the scents to create a fragrance that best matches your personal taste.
By the way, if the total volume exceeds a certain amount, the candle may not set properly, so be mindful of both the quantity and balance when pouring!
Pouring the Soy Wax
Next, the staff will pour the soy wax—now infused with your custom fragrance blend—to form the base of your candle.
Cooling and Setting the Soy Wax
Next, the soy wax is gently stirred to ensure an even texture and then slowly cooled and left to set.
Here are the tools used in this step:
As I continue stirring, the wax gradually begins to solidify from the top down, as shown below.
Setting the candle wick
After about 10 minutes, a staff member let us know it was time to stop stirring, and they helped set the candle wick in place.
Naming your original scent
Next, you’ll give your handmade candle a name.
The name you choose will be printed on the label, making it perfect both as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift.
Waiting for it to set
It takes around 30 minutes to an hour for the candle to fully solidify. During that time, I enjoyed browsing the store and chatting with the friendly staff.
Many people also take a stroll down the Parnell street or relax at a nearby café while they wait. (I’ll introduce some recommended spots later on!)
Your candle is ready!
I was amazed at how professional it looked — it truly exceeded my expectations!
【Recommended Spot While You Wait】
Before I left, I asked the staff if they had any suggestions for places to visit while waiting — and they kindly recommended éclair studio.
I stopped by and was warmly welcomed by the lovely owner couple. Enjoying their delicious éclairs and coffee made for a delightful and relaxing break.
6. Meet the Creators & Brands Behind Masala Bazaar
Here, we introduce four South Asian female creators and their brands who are actively involved with Haya Khan through Masala Bazaar.
While we can’t feature everyone, the following four creatives have been specially highlighted on the official Masala Bazaar website.
Arias Design Co
A jewellery brand that embodies craftsmanship and a culture of giving.
Founder: Saira McIntosh
Main Products: Polymer clay earrings
Key Features: Each item includes a donation to mental health organisations. All products are allergy-free.
A featured page on Arias Design Co (on the official Masala Bazaar website)
[Related Links] Arias Design Co
- Official Website：https://www.ariasdesignco.com
- Instagram：＠arias.design.co
- Facebook：Arias Design Co – Polymer Clay Earrings
“Fareen Roshana Art”
A Watercolour Artist Capturing Landscapes and Memories.
Founder: Fareen Roshana
Main Products: Original artworks, art prints, and greeting cards
Key Features: A soft and gentle style that blends South Asian culture with New Zealand landscapes
A featured page of Fareen Roshana Art (on the official Masala Bazaar website)
[Related Links] Fareen Roshana Art
- Official Website：https://fareenroshana.co.nz
- Instagram：@fareenroshana_art
- Facebook：Fareen Roshana Art
“Emily’s Atelier NZ”
An accessory brand that brings a touch of art to everyday life.
Founder: Emily
Main Products: Clay and metal earrings, pearl necklaces, and more
Key Features: Artistically crafted in small batches, with limited edition sets available
A featured page of Emily’s Atelier NZ (on the official Masala Bazaar website)
[Related Links] Emily’s Atelier NZ
- Official Instagram：@emilys_atelier_nz
“Oud NZ”
A Deeply Healing Experience Led by the Scent of Oud.
Main Products: Perfumes based on Arabian oils
Key Features: Centred around the traditional Middle Eastern scent of oud (agarwood), the fragrances are gender-neutral and suitable for everyday wear.
A featured page of Oud NZ (on the official Masala Bazaar website)
[Related Links] Oud NZ
- Official Instagram：@oud.nz
7. Masala Bazaar｜Access, Opening Hours & Visitor Tips
Access
【Location】
165 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1010
The shop is located on the main street, Parnell Road, and its exterior has a charming and inviting atmosphere.
Access from Auckland CBD to Parnell:
- On foot: Approximately 20 minutes
- By bus: Use InnerLink or CityLink (around 10 minutes)
- By taxi: Approximately 5–10 minutes
⚫︎ Opening Days & Hours
- Tuesday: 11am – 6pm
- Wednesday: 10am – 6pm
- Thursday: 10am – 7pm
- Friday: 10am – 7pm
- Saturday & : Sunday: 10am – 6pm
(Closed on Mondays)
8. Summary: Where Culture, Creativity, and Community Meet
Masala Bazaar is neither just a curated boutique nor simply an art gallery.
It is a space where cultural heritage and the bold creativity of women with South Asian roots come alive.
From the vision of its founder, Haya, to the diverse worlds brought by South Asian creators, everything comes together to inspire those who walk through its doors.
Guided by scents, you may find yourself stepping into Masala Bazaar — and feeling a sudden urge to start something of your own.
If you’re even a little curious about Masala Bazaar, we highly recommend checking out their official website.
- 公式Website：https://masalabazaar.co/
- Instagram：@masalabazaarco
- Facebook：Masala Bazaar
- TikTok：@masalabazaar
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