The first anniversary of the Ōtaki Kids Market in January 2024 was a huge success, boasting over 50 stalls operated by 80 enthusiastic tamariki and rangatahi. From Ashhurst to Wellington, as well as locally from Ōtaki, Te Horo, Paraparaumu, Waikane, Raumati, Levin and Pukerua Bay: young minds converged to create a vibrant celebration on the Kāpiti Coast.
Adding a sweet touch to the festivities, Zhyla (12) and Meia (10), two creative spirits from Ōtaki, took on the challenge of decorating the one-year anniversary cake, turning it into a masterpiece adorned with the Ōtaki Market logo. The cake-cutting ceremony, featuring Zhyla, Meia, and Councillor Shelly Warwick, marked a delightful highlight, and everyone was invited to savor a slice.
“I enjoyed seeing so many happy faces and people at the kids market and I loved seeing all the kids creations, how they started from scratch and made really cool things to sell and of course I LOVE making money” – Matthew Cowan (9) from Ōtaki
The market showcased the talent of children from across Horowhenua, Kāpiti, and Greater Wellington, presenting an array of crafts, art, handmade jewellery, lip balms, plants, garden art, books, clothes, toys, homemade lemonade, and delectable home baking.
“The Ōtaki Kids Market is a bustling hub of young entrepreneurs, where every little stall is a spark of creativity and a testament to the awesomeness of our local tamariki and rangatahi – proving that success comes in all sizes!” – Chrissy Anderson, Ōtaki Market General Manager
The prestigious Best Kids Stall Award, judged by Kāpiti Coast Councillor Shelly Warwick, went to 11-year-old Ciara Schneider, who travelled from Upper Hutt to partake in the Ōtaki Market. Local talent was also acknowledged, with runner-up Keani Heartwood and special mentions for Aria Sannazzaro and Lana Reeves from Levin, and the sibling trio Isla, Harlen, and Jake Douglas from Manakau with their stall Blooming Forest.
Held every school holiday, the Ōtaki Kids Market, organized by the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club, encourages children to embrace entrepreneurship with a donation for stall fees. This event not only supports young talents but also channels 100% of stall fees back into the local community through the charitable endeavours of the Ōtaki Women’s Community Club.
The Ōtaki Kids Market, was runner up in the 2023 Wellington Regional Airport Awards in child/youth development.
Next Kids Markets are schedule for: Sunday 21 April, Sunday 21 July (Workshop), Sunday 13 October
