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

Student making a bracelet at the Ōtaki Kids Market workshop

The Ōtaki Kids Market Team Inspires Young Entrepreneurs at Local School

The Ōtaki Kids Market recently visited a local school to run an engaging workshop on young entrepreneurship.

Feb 27, 20251 min read

Behind the Scenes at the Ōtaki Market

The Ōtaki Market is a vibrant, bustling space filled with creativity, delicious food, and friendly faces.

Feb 24, 20252 min read

Thanks to kcdc and the otaki community board

The Otaki Market and the Otaki Kids Market has been on a revitalization journey for the past two years.

Dec 27, 20242 min read

A year in review - the otaki women's community club

The word community is not just in our name – it’s at the heart of everything the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club does.

Dec 18, 20247 min read

Bailey's exciting journey in canoe polo

Young Otaki local Bailey Johns is quickly becoming a canoe polo champion, winning school qualifiers and scoring gold at nations. The...

Nov 22, 20241 min read

Ōtaki Market Flag Designing Project

We are excited to announce the Ōtaki Market Flag Designing Project, a community-driven initiative to create unique flags that will...

Nov 21, 20243 min read

Gold! Champion powerlifter Riria Ropata

Local women Riria Ropata went to South Africa this October to represent Aotearoa at the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships.

Nov 1, 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

Rāhui Māreikura

Rāhui Māreikura is local rugby team who recently went to Auckland to compete in a tournament.

Oct 15, 20244 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