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

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

Dec 14, 20259 min read

Ōtaki Shines Bright as Finalists in the Wellington Airport Community Awards!

It’s a proud moment for Ōtaki, with three of our local initiatives named finalists in the 2025 Wellington Airport Community Awards. The Ōtaki Women’s Community Club, Ōtaki Market, and Ōtaki Kids Market have each been recognised for their incredible work in supporting the community, empowering tamariki, and bringing people together.

Jun 27, 20252 min read

Group of people smiling around a yellow "Ōtaki Kids Market" sign in a hall. Stalls with crafts are visible. Cheerful atmosphere.

The Ōtaki Kids Market invited to a meet and greet with MP Tim Costley and the Minister of Finance

It’s not every day that tamariki and rangatahi get to speak directly with leaders shaping our country’s economic future, and we saw this as an ideal platform for our kids to ask questions, share their ideas, and talk about their business ventures.

Jun 23, 20251 min read

Ōtaki Market Joins the Kāpiti Coast Arts Trail: A Celebration of Creativity, Culture, and Community

The Ōtaki Market Collective is proud to announce its official inclusion in the prestigious Kāpiti Coast Arts Trail.

Jun 5, 20252 min read

Otaki Easter Market colouring competition

Ōtaki Easter Market Draws Huge Crowd for Family Fun in the Sun

The Ōtaki Easter Market proved to be a huge hit this year, with 1,500 visitors turning out to enjoy a fun-filled family day under the clear blue skies.

Apr 14, 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

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

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