It's no secret that Tauranga is home to some fantastic night markets and if you're in town tonight be sure to check out the Gourmet Night Market at Coronation Park in Mount Maunganui from 5-9pm.

Whether you're making a family night out of it, going on a date night or just filling time, nothing symbolises summer better than being out on one of those cooler nights, basking in the ambience and the culinary delights of a great night market.

The night market that is a particular highlight of my summer is The Gourmet Night Market at Coronation Park in Mount Maunganui.

The market runs every Friday from December 1-March 16 (except for January 19), 5pm until dark and is the perfect way to spend your night and wind down after a long week.

Coronation Park provides the most serene location to lay down your picnic blanket and gather together as you enjoy a huge range of irrestible dinners, scrumptious desserts and ambient live music.

Plus dogs are allowed here (as long as you keep them on their leads) – always a bonus!

Another favourite is, of course, the Bayfair night markets which run during the weekends from January 30-February 28.

As a first-timer to these markets a few years ago one of my initial responses was how much they reminded me of the Queen Victoria Night Market I had visited in Melbourne, only done on a smaller scale and iconic to Tauranga.

These markets are a great night out for the family, and the undercover location means it's an all-weather event.

The kids can experience food from other cultures, hear live music and watch performances. Buskers, magicians and, at some events, dance troupes provide additional entertainment.

Being in such a convenient location too means that if you don't fancy tucking in to those delightful eats at the venue, then a sunset dinner on Mount Maunganui beach is only a short walk or drive away.