Ōtaki Shines Bright as Finalists in the Wellington Airport Community Awards!
- Claire Roper
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
There’s something pretty special happening in Ōtaki, and now the rest of the region is taking notice! We’re absolutely thrilled to share that the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club, Ōtaki Market, and Ōtaki Kids Market are all finalists in the 2025 Wellington Airport Community Awards.
These awards recognise the tireless efforts of volunteers and local groups across the region—and this triple nod is a huge moment of pride for our little town.
Ōtaki Women’s Community Club
At the heart of everything is the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club—run entirely by volunteers, these amazing wāhine are the engine behind so many great things in our community.
Not only do they run the Ōtaki Market, they also reinvest the profits back into local causes—supporting everything from scholarships and surf lifesaving to youth groups and St John.
This finalist spot is a beautiful recognition of their dedication to health, well-being, and community connection.
The Ōtaki Market
The Market has become a weekly favourite for locals and visitors alike, full of colour, creativity, and good vibes. From fresh produce and handmade crafts to live music and great kai, it’s more than just a market—it’s a gathering place.
What makes it even more impressive is that it’s completely community-run. After facing near-closure during COVID, the team pulled together to breathe new life into it—and now it’s busier than ever.
Ōtaki Kids Market
Now this one really tugs at the heartstrings! The Ōtaki Kids Market gives tamariki and rangatahi aged 5 to 19 the chance to be stallholders and entrepreneurs. Whether they’re baking cupcakes, making crafts, or selling slime and air plants, these kids are learning real-world skills—and having a blast doing it.
It’s not just about selling stuff—it’s about building confidence, learning about money, and connecting with the community. With around 80 participants and thousands of visitors, it’s one of the most-loved additions to the market calendar.
To have not just one, but three local projects up for awards is a huge win for Ōtaki. It shows just how strong our volunteer culture is, how creative and community-minded our people are, and how much we can achieve when we work together.
It’s a proud moment—and whether or not we come home with trophies, we’ve already won.
So next time you’re at the market, give the team a high-five, a thank you, or a warm “ka pai!”
They deserve it. 💛
Comentários