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

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

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

Irgo selling fresh fruit and vegetables at the Otaki Market.

Introducing Irgo: Fresh Fruit & Veg at the Ōtaki Market

Irgo has joined the lineup, bringing fresh, high-quality fruit and vegetables at fantastic prices.

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

Introducing Francesca: A Young Entrepreneur on the Rise

Meet Francesca! She’s a 15-year-old student from Manakau who’s just getting started in the market scene.

Feb 1, 20253 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

Capturing Memories with Tessa: Fun Photoshoot with the Ōtaki Market Team

Ōtaki Market Team had the pleasure of working with Tessa Calargoaris, an incredibly talented photographer, for a special team photoshoot.

Jan 19, 20251 min read

Info for kids market stall holders

Welcome to the Kids Market, below are all the details for stall holders and their caregivers. The Market will go ahead, rain or shine

Jan 16, 20252 min read

Why There’s No Hawking at the Ōtaki Market

The Ōtaki Market’s no-hawking policy is more than just a rule—it’s a reflection of its values.

Dec 29, 20242 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

Brian and Chrissy: Bringing Nature to Life with Art

The Festival of the Pots, a cherished event celebrating creativity and craftsmanship, will feature many local artists, including Otaki loc

Dec 27, 20241 min read

How to Make the Most of Your Stall at the Ōtaki Kids Market

Selling handmade crafts, baked goods, or unique items, making the most of your stall is key to standing out and maximizing sales.

Dec 27, 20244 min read

Harper’s Gourmet Cupcakes: A Sweet Treat for Everyone

Every Ōtaki Kids Market, one stall always draws a crowd: Harper’s Gourmet Cupcakes. Known for her beautifully crafted and delicious cupcakes

Dec 26, 20242 min read

Tal’s 3D Creations: From the Ōtaki Kids Market to National TV

Meet Tal, a 14-year-old entrepreneur with a knack for innovation and design. Tal’s stall at the Ōtaki Kids Market showcases his 3d printing.

Dec 26, 20242 min read

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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