The sun was shining on Douglas Street at the weekend, making for perfect conditions for the neighbourhood’s third annual sale.

The street took on a market-style feel on Saturday as stalls lined front gardens.

Top marks went to the stall at 12 Douglas Street, where the Buchan and Metcalfe families combined to create an atmosphere that judges described as warm and welcoming.

Winner Carol Buchan accepted their prize of vouchers for Robert Harris, Appenzell Bakes and Cakes, Whakamax and Pana food truck on Tuesday.

She said the families’ children, aged between 10 and 14, sold coffee, blueberry muffins, pulled pork buns and soft drinks.

It was so successful that the kids had to go back into the kitchen at 10am to bake another batch of muffins.

They had other items for sale including a table, which people were invited to sit at to eat their lunch and enjoy their drinks until it sold.

Coffees were served in reusable cups sourced from CReW, that people could take away. Food was served on plates rather than disposable options.

This was the first year The Great Douglas Street Sale had a competition aspect incorporated.

The judging panel consisted of Andy Stretton, Carolyn Hamill, Gerard McCormack, Shelley Bremner and Aroha Tanatiu.

They noted the sustainable focus of the stall, availability of shelter and shade, excellent range of quality items for sale, good signage, pricing and layout.

“The cafe was wonderful, continuously restocked with fresh baked muffins and real coffee.”

Four out of the five judges voted the sale to be their top pick.

There was only meant to be one winner, but the judges thought two other sales deserved commendation and pitched in their own money for two $20 Robert Harris gift vouchers.

Number 57 Douglas Street was said to have been fun with music, laughter and a friendly whānau feel.

“The home baking was amazing, and the gazebo gave shade.”

Number 60A Douglas Street stood out to the judges for the wide array of items available for sale – including a bus.

Judges said it was a friendly sale and by providing the St John blood pressure monitoring service they showed they were community minded and provided a hub of activity.