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.<\/p>\n
In this article, we\u2019ll guide you through everything that makes Masala Bazaar so special \u2014 from its mission and origin story to its product selection and hands-on workshops.<\/p>\n
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:<\/strong><\/p>\n By the end, you\u2019ll feel much closer to the heart of Masala Bazaar and what it represents.<\/p>\n But first \u2014 take a quick look at their official website or social media to catch a glimpse of their vibrant world:<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Masala Bazaar<\/strong><\/a> is <\/strong>a curated space featuring art, crafts, fashion accessories, fragrances, and more \u2014 all created by South Asian women entrepreneurs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n But it\u2019s more than just a shop, it also serves as a platform where cultures meet<\/strong> \u2014 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.<\/p>\n What is \u201cDesi\u201d?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n “Desi” is a Hindi term that refers to the culture and people of South Asia<\/strong> \u2014 particularly regions like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The word Masala<\/em>, in languages like Hindi and Urdu, means “a blend of spices” or “a mix of ingredients.”<\/p>\n It also carries a broader nuance \u2014 something vibrant, diverse, and full of flavour.<\/p>\n Combined with Bazaar<\/em>, a Persian-origin word meaning \u201cmarketplace,\u201d the name “Masala Bazaar” expresses a vision of a vibrant cultural marketplace<\/strong><\/span> \u2014 where ideas, cultures, and people come together, creating a colourful and stimulating harmony<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Masala Bazaar serves both as a select shop and a creative platform. Let\u2019s take a closer look at each of these.<\/p>\n At Masala Bazaar, you\u2019ll find a wide range of items that blend traditional South Asian craftsmanship and cultural essence with New Zealand\u2019s contemporary aesthetic.<\/p>\n 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 \u2014 offering a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.<\/p>\n All products are handcrafted or produced in small batches, reflecting the values of so-called \u201cslow fashion.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n From accessories and candles to artwork, Masala Bazaar focuses on one-of-a-kind items that carry a sense of warmth and individuality \u2014 something you won\u2019t find in mass-produced goods.<\/p>\n All of Masala Bazaar\u2019s products come from women-led micro-businesses, with a diverse selection of brands featured at any given time.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n At Masala Bazaar, it\u2019s not just about shopping\u2014visitors can also take part in hands-on workshops held in a dedicated space inside the store.<\/p>\n One of the most popular offerings is the Candle Making Workshop<\/em><\/a>, where participants can create their own original scented candles. It\u2019s especially well-loved for the personalised and relaxing experience it provides.<\/p>\n Later in this article, I\u2019ll share my firsthand experience in the section: The founder of Masala Bazaar is Haya Khan,<\/strong> who studied Law and Communications at the University of Auckland.<\/p>\n Masala Bazaar originally began in 2018 as Masala Scents<\/em><\/a>, a candle brand inspired by the aromas of South Asia<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Haya Khan is widely recognised as a prominent female entrepreneur within the business circles of Parnell and Auckland.<\/p>\n She has been featured multiple times in various media outlets, including The New Zealand Herald and RNZ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n (*Partially quoted from the official website)<\/span><\/p>\n 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 \u201chome.\u201d Driven by nostalgia and a sense of longing, she launched Masala Scents<\/em><\/a>, a candle brand rooted in South Asian heritage and made with environmentally friendly materials.<\/p>\n In an unexpected place, she came across a quiet yet vibrant community of Desi (South Asian) entrepreneurs in the Instagram business world.<\/p>\n This community, born out of the struggles during lockdown, was a group of creatives seeking to express their talents and passions.<\/p>\n [2020] Began operating pop-up events under the name Masala Bazaar<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n [2021] Held a full-scale pop-up for 3 months<\/strong><\/p>\n [2022] Opened a permanent store in Parnell<\/strong><\/p>\n References:<\/strong> At Masala Bazaar, every item is carefully curated with a focus on handmade<\/em> craftsmanship and small-batch production<\/em>.<\/p>\n Looking at these beautiful creations might just spark your own creativity and leave you feeling inspired to start something of your own.<\/p>\n Below is an overview of the main product lineup \u2014 and don\u2019t forget, a variety of workshops are also held in-store.<\/p>\n Natural soy wax candles and Arabic-style perfumes.<\/p>\n Earrings and necklaces made from polymer clay or gold-plated materials.<\/p>\n Handmade fabric bags and embroidered pouches.<\/p>\n Garments made with South Asian techniques such as handwoven cotton and natural dyeing.<\/p>\n Watercolour paintings, art prints, and seasonal greeting cards.<\/p>\n Pots, plates, and small dishes featuring South Asian-inspired designs.<\/p>\n One of the most popular workshops at Masala Bazaar is the Candle-Making Workshop<\/em><\/a>, which uses natural ingredients. [<\/strong>Advance booking required]<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n The materials used are carefully selected, including eco-friendly soy wax, essential oils, and scents inspired by South Asia.<\/p>\n The Block Printing Workshop<\/em> (\u201cKARIGARI<\/strong>\u201d)<\/a> offers a hands-on experience of making tote bags using a traditional method of stamping patterns onto fabric with hand-carved wooden blocks. [<\/strong>Advance booking required]<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n At Masala Bazaar, candle-making workshops where you can create your own original candles are held regularly. [<\/strong>Advance booking is required]<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n Based on my personal experience, here\u2019s an overview of what the candle-making workshop is like:<\/p>\n Duration:<\/strong> Approximately 1.5 hours The workshops are held in a dedicated space within the store called the Masala Studio<\/em>.<\/p>\n The workshop began with a clear explanation of the overall process.<\/p>\n Even for those not confident in English, the staff spoke slowly and used simple language, which left a very good impression.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll then choose your favourite scent from around 50 different fragrance options, arranged on both sides of the table.<\/p>\n The standard is to choose three fragrances, but you’re welcome to pick just one or two based on your personal preference.<\/p>\n Personally, I had never really been interested in scents before, but I found the process of discovering my favourite fragrances surprisingly enjoyable.<\/p>\n In the end, I chose \u201cNoel,\u201d \u201cFrench Pear,\u201d and \u201cCoconut Lime.\u201d<\/p>\n Following the recommended mixing ratios suggested by the staff, you gradually blend the scents to create a fragrance that best matches your personal taste.<\/p>\n 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!<\/p>\n Next, the staff will pour the soy wax\u2014now infused with your custom fragrance blend\u2014to form the base of your candle.<\/p>\n Next, the soy wax is gently stirred to ensure an even texture and then slowly cooled and left to set.<\/p>\n Here are the tools used in this step:<\/p>\n As I continue stirring, the wax gradually begins to solidify from the top down, as shown below.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Next, you\u2019ll give your handmade candle a name.<\/p>\n The name you choose will be printed on the label, making it perfect both as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Many people also take a stroll down the Parnell street or relax at a nearby caf\u00e9 while they wait. (I\u2019ll introduce some recommended spots later on!)<\/p>\n I was amazed at how professional it looked \u2014 it truly exceeded my expectations!<\/strong><\/p>\n Before I left, I asked the staff if they had any suggestions for places to visit while waiting \u2014 and they kindly recommended \u00e9clair studio<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n I stopped by and was warmly welcomed by the lovely owner couple. Enjoying their delicious \u00e9clairs and coffee made for a delightful and relaxing break.<\/p>\n Here, we introduce four South Asian female creators and their brands who are actively involved with Haya Khan through Masala Bazaar.<\/p>\n While we can\u2019t feature everyone, the following four creatives have been specially highlighted on the official Masala Bazaar website.<\/p>\n A jewellery brand that embodies craftsmanship and a culture of giving.<\/strong><\/p>\n Founder:<\/strong> Saira McIntosh A featured page on\u00a0Arias Design Co<\/em><\/a> (on the official Masala Bazaar website)<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n [Related Links] Arias Design Co<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n A Watercolour Artist Capturing Landscapes and Memories.<\/strong><\/p>\n Founder:<\/strong> Fareen Roshana\n
\n
\n
1. What is “Masala Bazaar”? A Truly Unique Cultural Marketplace<\/h2>\n
![\"Masala](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-04-at-9.45.36\u202fpm-500x324.png\")
<\/p>\n\n
It is often used in phrases like:<\/p>\n\n
The Meaning Behind the Name<\/h3>\n
![\"Masala-bazaar-featured-image\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-31-at-6.06.31\u202fam-500x190.png\")
<\/p>\n2. The 4 Key Features That Define Masala Bazaar<\/h2>\n
![\"masala-bazaar-displays\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.57.27\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n
Its main features can be summarised in the following four points:<\/p>\n\n
⚫\ufe0e Fusion of South Asian traditions and contemporary design<\/h3>\n
![\"bags\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-08-at-6.06.25\u202fam-500x323.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e Slow fashion and handmade one-of-a-kind pieces at the core<\/h3>\n
![\"creators\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.50.03\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e All products are created by women-led micro-businesses<\/h3>\n
![\"Masala-Bazaar-brands\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.41.23\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"Masala-Bazaar-brands\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-08-at-6.03.45\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e Workshops and Community Events Held In-store!<\/h3>\n
![\"workshop-space\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-01-at-8.53.36\u202fam-1-500x374.png\")
<\/p>\n
\n“5. [Workshop] I Tried the Candle Making Experience!<\/a><\/strong>“<\/p><\/blockquote>\n[Reference] The 5 Core Values Masala Bazaar Stands By<\/h4>\n
\n
3. The Story Behind Masala Bazaar\u2019s Creation \u2013 One Woman\u2019s Journey<\/h2>\n
![\"Founding-story\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-30-at-7.00.52\u202fpm-500x306.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"Masala-Scents\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-03-at-9.56.20\u202fpm-500x255.png\")
<\/p>\nA Respected Female Entrepreneur in the Business Community<\/h3>\n
![\"Masala-Bazaar-featured-on-media\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-30-at-6.45.01\u202fpm-500x309.png\")
<\/p>\nSummary of the Origin Story<\/h3>\n
[2018]<\/strong> While pursuing a career in law, she had a turning point.<\/h4>\n
That moment awakened her creative side.<\/p>\nEncounter with the Desi Community<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n
The full founding story is explained on the official website<\/a><\/strong>, and you can also check out the following features:<\/p>\n\n
“Small business: Masala Bazaar owner on breaking the \u2018stereotypical lens\u2019 for South Asian businesswomen”<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n
“Candlemaker finds a match with like-minded creatives<\/a><\/strong>“<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n4. Product Lineup & Workshops You Can Join<\/h2>\n
![\"masala-bazaar-displays\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.30.59\u202fam-500x377.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"masala-bazaar-displays\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.31.57\u202fam-500x376.png\")
<\/p>\n4-1. Product Lineup<\/strong><\/h3>\n
⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Scents & Candles<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"candle\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.40.11\u202fpm-500x363.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"candles\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.53.30\u202fpm-500x343.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Accessories<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"earrings\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.38.47\u202fpm.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Bags & Small Goods<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"bags\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.46.11\u202fpm-500x376.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"bag\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-5.37.26\u202fam-500x302.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Clothing<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"fashion\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.48.24\u202fpm.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Art & Cards<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"art-cards\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.54.40\u202fpm.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Others (Tableware, Ceramics, etc.)<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"ceramic\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-05-at-8.46.47\u202fpm.png\")
<\/p>\n4-2. Workshops<\/h3>\n
⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Candle-Making Workshop<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-6.31.19\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n⚫\ufe0e <\/strong>Block Printing Workshop<\/strong><\/h4>\n
![\"workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-6.33.03\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\n5. [Workshop Experience] I Tried the Candle-Making Workshop!<\/h2>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1855.png\")
<\/p>\n
Fee:<\/strong> Please refer to the official website<\/a><\/strong> for the most up-to-date information.<\/p>\nIntroduction by the Staff<\/h3>\n
Choosing Your Favourite Scent<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1817-500x375.png\")
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1821-500x375.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1813.png\")
<\/p>\nBlending with Your Own Original Ratio<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1824.png\")
<\/p>\nPouring the Soy Wax<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1828.png\")
<\/p>\nCooling and Setting the Soy Wax<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_1822.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-6.48.06\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\nSetting the candle wick<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-06-at-6.48.21\u202fam.png\")
<\/p>\nNaming your original scent<\/h3>\n
Waiting for it to set<\/h3>\n
Your candle is ready!<\/h3>\n
![\"candle-making-workshop\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-04-at-8.38.01\u202fpm.png\")
<\/p>\n\u3010Recommended Spot While You Wait\u3011<\/h3>\n
![\"\u00c9clair-Studio\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-08-at-6.01.07\u202fam-500x239.png\")
<\/div>\n\n
\nOfficial Instagram\uff1aeclairstudio.nz<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n6. Meet the Creators & Brands Behind Masala Bazaar<\/h2>\n
![\"creator-introduction\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-30-at-7.35.53\u202fpm-500x341.png\")
<\/p>\nArias Design Co<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"Arias-Design-Co\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-30-at-7.28.00\u202fpm-1.png\")
<\/p>\n
Main Products:<\/strong> Polymer clay earrings
Key Features:<\/strong> Each item includes a donation to mental health organisations. All products are allergy-free.<\/p>\n\n
“Fareen Roshana Art”<\/h3>\n
![\"Fareen-Roshana-Art\"](\"https:\/\/askmenz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-30-at-7.28.07\u202fpm-1.png\")
<\/p>\n
Main Products:<\/strong> Original artworks, art prints, and greeting cards
Key Features:<\/strong> A soft and gentle style that blends South Asian culture with New Zealand landscapes<\/p>\n