Otaki

Otaki is one of the oldest urban settlements in the country and is now an attractive town flanked by the hills on one side and the ocean on the other. It services the rural community as well as providing a refreshment stop for many people passing through on the highway – just as in the the days of the stagecoach runs between Wellington and Foxton when the beaches were used as roads.

Otaki is the site of both the oldest Catholic Church still in use in New Zealand, St Mary’s Pukekaraka Church built in 1851; and Rangiatea, the oldest surviving Anglican Maori Church. Rangiatea was started by the famous Maori Chief of Kapiti, Te Rauparaha, but he died in 1849 before the church was completed. It was tragically destroyed by fire in 1995 but has now been rebuilt.

The Otaki economy is enjoying a period of growth thanks to Te Wananga-o-Raukawa, an unique centre of higher learning devoted to the world of Maori knowledge (Matauranga Maori). This large and growing educational facility promotes group learning with a teaching method   based upon knowledge and wisdom passed on by their    ancestors.                                                                              

The dramatic Otaki River Gorge offers views of native bush, walking tracks as well as the more energetic river activities like rafting. You can enjoy pleasant riverside picnic spots or embark on one of several challenging tramps including the Southern Crossing along the Tararua Peaks to Upper Hutt.

For full details of the Kapiti Coast Arts Guide, which is a new Kapiti Coast District Council initiative, contact your local visitor information centres for a copy of the guide. This guide has addresses, opening hours and contacts phone numbers. This guide is free of charge.