local stories

Finding Inspiration in our community

This is a space dedicated to celebrating our vibrant, supportive community and sharing updates on our local initiatives, events, and market happenings. Through our stories, we aim to highlight the diverse projects and partnerships that bring us together, promote the incredible talents within our town, and keep our community informed about upcoming activities.

A Year in Review 2025 – Ōtaki Women’s Community Club

The word community isn’t just part of our name, it’s at the heart of everything we do. From high teas to markets, school workshops to national recognition, 2025 has been a year of connection, growth, and celebration for the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club (OWCC).

Women's Club

Dec 14, 2025

in the newspaper

Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki Children's Day – A Sweet Success!

Children’s Day in Ōtaki was nothing short of magical! Families, friends, and community members gathered for a day filled with laughter, fun,

Mar 3, 20252 min read

ŌTAKI KIDS MARKET STALLHOLDERS TO INSPIRE CREATIVITY AT NGĀ HAPŪ O ŌTAKI CHILDREN’S DAY

The Ōtaki Women’s Community Club is proud to announce Lana and Harper from the Kids Market will be at the Children's Day event.

Feb 27, 20251 min read

Ōtaki Kids Market Kicks Off the Year with a Successful Event

The January Ōtaki Kids Market was a vibrant and energetic celebration of young talent and creativity, with over 60 young entrepreneurs.

Jan 26, 20252 min read

Summer at the Ōtaki Market

The Ōtaki Market is thrilled to welcome 2025 with a summer packed full of vibrant weekly craft and food markets.

Jan 22, 20251 min read

Ōtaki Christmas Market Brings Holiday Cheer and Record Success

The Ōtaki Christmas Market, held this past weekend, delivered festive joy to the community. With record-breaking attendance, vibrant stalls,

Dec 22, 20242 min read

Ōtaki Kids Market Shines at Kāpiti Food Fair with Pop-Up Stall

The Ōtaki Kids Market proudly showcased its talent and creativity at the Kāpiti Food Fair

Nov 30, 20242 min read

Ōtaki Market Team Wins Prestigious BSI Workplace Culture Award

The Ōtaki Market Team has been recognized for its outstanding workplace environment, taking home the BSI Workplace Culture Awards.

Nov 26, 20241 min read

Otaki Kids market to showcase at kapiti food fair

Ten young entrepreneurs from the Ōtaki Kids Market be at the Kāpiti Food Fair, showcasing their creative talents, business skills, and passi

Nov 14, 20242 min read

Pat Bloxham - the new patron of the Ōtaki women's club

Introducing Pat Bloxham, the new Patron of the Otaki Women's Community Club (OWCC). Pat is a familiar face in our community, known for her w

Oct 31, 20243 min read

We are finalists! Workplace culture excellence awards

We are finalists in BSI People Skills Ltd Workplace Culture Excellent Awards!

Oct 18, 20241 min read

local stories

Our History: 1987 Husband of the year competition

Back in 1987, the Ōtaki Lionesses hosted their iconic Husband of the Year event, a night of laughter, friendly competition, and community spirit. Local men tackled quirky challenges—from washing dishes to “chatting up the wife” mannequin-style—while a panel of notable local figures judged the fun-filled evening. Peter Downes took home the trophy, leaving a legacy of joy and creativity that still brings smiles today.

Women's Club

Anne Chatterton competing the in Otaki Raft Race

OUR History: The 1981 Otaki Raft Race

A look back at the early 1980s Ōtaki Lions Club raft races on the Ōtaki River, featuring the first women’s team home, local school champions, and novelty rafts — bringing the community together for fun and fundraising!

Women's Club

Lucinda from Seriously Pickled: to Mentor the Next Generation of Foodies

Lucinda's journey with Seriously Pickled started with homemade meals and a whole lot of hustle. From car park sales to catering, to running a commercial kitchen, she’s built a food business grounded in passion and heart. Now, she’s sharing her knowledge with the next generation as a mentor at the Little High Tea Soirée—helping young chefs build confidence, create with joy, and embrace the magic of food.

Kids Market