Communtiy embraces Easter event
Young entrepreneurs host mini kids’ stalls
The Ō taki Easter Market was a resounding success, attracting more than 2000 visitors from within the community and beyond.
There were more than 40 stalls offering a diverse range of products and activities, along with a mini kids’ market which featured six young entrepreneurs — 12-year-old Tal selling 3D printed products, 10-year-old Erin selling handmade dog treats, 7-year-old Penelope selling delicious shortbread, 11-year-old Harper selling gourmet cupcakes, Millie, 11, selling handcrafted jewellery, and Isabel, 11, selling lip balms and knitted gloves.
The Ō taki Community Board were also in attendance, helping with giveaways by handing out black bucket hats which were donated by a member of the community.
The Kāpiti Kindness Trust teamed up with the Easter Bunny to ensure children were treated to an abundance of Easter eggs.
“The Ō taki Easter Market was a real hit, thanks to the amazing support from our community,” said Ō taki Market’s general manager Chrissy Anderson.
“It had such a fantastic family vibe - you could feel the energy and excitement all around. Seeing everyone come together like that is what makes our town so special.”
Anderson said a highlight of the event was a visit from Cheryl Gray, who founded the market in 1995 as an innovative way to raise money for the Ō taki Women’s Community Club.
“Her presence served as a reminder of the market’s longstanding tradition of giving back to the community.”
As part of the event the Otaki ¯ Women’s Community Club offered a lunch to the Te Horo and Ō taki fire brigades who have “had a challenging few weeks”.
“The firefighters, who arrived in their fire trucks, embraced the opportunity to mingle with the community,
It had such a fantastic family vibe - you could feel the energy and excitement all around. Otaki ¯ Market’s general manager Chrissy Anderson
enjoying a well-deserved break, some delicious kai and even welcomed children to explore the fire trucks.”
Food vendors at the market teamed up with the Ō taki Women’s Community Club for this lunch, with P&S Kai Kart, Sweet Ks Kushna, Olde Beach Bakery, and Anthea’s Kitchen contributing.
“The Easter Market was absolutely
amazing - seeing everyone come together with such genuine camaraderie and unwavering support for our local volunteers, like the fire service, really shows the strength of our community spirit,” said president of the Ō taki Women’s Community Club Maureen Wallace.
“And when small businesses chip in to help out, it just reinforces our belief in the power of working together for a common cause.”
Anderson said the success of the Easter Market is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Ō taki community, which continues to come together to support local initiatives and celebrate its vibrant culture.
“As we look forward to future events, we are reminded of the power of community spirit to uplift and inspire us all.”