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.

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

Jul 10

in the newspaper

Smiling woman (Tracey Humphrey) in a floral top stands outdoors, with a tree and green fence in the background. Bright daylight, cheerful mood.

Ōtaki Women’s Community Club Announces New Leadership Team

The Ōtaki Women’s Community Club (OWCC), a cornerstone of community connection and support in Ōtaki, is proud to announce the appointment of its new leadership team.

Jun 292 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 272 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 242 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

Rāhui Māreikura

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

Oct 15, 20244 min read

A Heartfelt Farewell to Long-Serving Members of The Ōtaki Women’s Community Club

Today, we find ourselves reflecting on the dedication, service, and countless contributions made by several beloved members of the OWCC.

Oct 5, 20242 min read

local stories

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

Kids Market

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.

Kids Market