Our History
Our Origins & Purpose
The Wellbeing Market is grounded in tradition and guided by deep experience.
From its beginnings, the Wellbeing Market has been shaped by vision, compassion, and a shared commitment to holistic wellbeing. Founded by Anthony Life and Peace Summerlife, the market was created as a safe and welcoming space where people could gather, share their gifts, and support one another on their individual wellbeing journeys.
From the outset, the market had two clear intentions: to offer the wider community access to a diverse range of healing modalities, and to provide a supportive environment where both emerging and established practitioners could connect, learn, and grow together as a spiritual community. This founding vision remains strong today. It is with great respect that we acknowledge Peace and Anthony, whose dedication, leadership, and belief in collective growth laid the foundations for a market that continues to thrive more than twenty-five years on - thanks to the ongoing support of stallholders and the wider behind the scenes community.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Derek John Thompson was entrusted by Anthony & Peace's whānau to carry their vision forward. Taking on this responsibility with humility and care, Derek continues to nurture and develop the market while remaining true to its core values. As steward of the Wellbeing Market’s legacy, he sees this chapter as both an honor and an opportunity for growth, ensuring the founders’ intentions remain at the heart of everything the market represents.
A Holistic Philosophy
True to the market’s spirit, Derek embodies a holistic approach in his own work. His healing practices weave together traditional methods such as Reiki with more contemporary modalities including MiriMiri Massage Therapy. This balance reflects the essence of the Wellbeing Market itself - a meeting place of ancient wisdom and evolving practice.
Community & Connection
At its core, the Wellbeing Market is built on connection. It is a place where unity, belonging, and shared purpose come to life. Derek’s approach strongly aligns with this philosophy, emphasizing oneness, interconnectedness, and the relationship between the individual, the collective, and the wider universe. In much the same way, the market brings together diverse practitioners and visitors, creating meaningful connections rooted in respect and shared intention.
Learning, Growth & Empowerment
Education has always been central to the Wellbeing Market. Through talks and workshops held at larger markets across locations such as Cambridge, Napier, Taupō and Whitianga, the market continues to be a place of learning, reflection, and empowerment. Derek’s dedication to mentoring and training future Reiki practitioners helps ensure the market remains a living, growing source of knowledge for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
As the Wellbeing Market continues to evolve, Derek’s passion and experience remain a vital part of its journey. Together, we honor the past, support the present, and look ahead with optimism - committed to expanding, adapting, and continuing to serve as a trusted space for wellbeing, community, and connection.
We invite you to be part of this journey and experience the heart of the Wellbeing Market for yourself.