Sunny Otaki

Otaki Forks has been developed for a wide range of activities, there will be something for everyone to enjoy, from Historic sites, fords, swing bridges, camping, fishing, swiming, tramping and hiking!  My first stop when heading to Otaki Forks is always the road swing bridge, if your not too scared of heights or bridges and venture across the bridge either by car or foot, you'll be in for a real treat.   There are fantastic views of the amazing Otaki River from both directions. Just remember to be safe and watch out for vehicles as this bridge is used by local residents and tourists.

Otaki Beach, what can you say, it's the most beautiful beach on the Kapiti Coast. It can be wild and ruggered with an amazing collection of driftwood or smooth sand and seashell collecting.  Kapiti Island There are always fantastic views of Kapiti Island and a great place to swim with the family or your friends. (remember to always swim between the flags!)  If your taking a long stroll with your pooch across the sands or dipping your toes in the water, so much to love about Otaki Beach. And then there's also the stunning sunsets which are always different and always spectatular. So whoever your with, enjoy the view.  #Paperpeople      

My last blog post, Around the World in Otaki  was so popular, I thought I would create a part 2.  Otaki and Te Horo have some beautiful landscapes, varying wildly from sunsets, kite festivals, forests, rivers and churches which rival that of other locations around the world and you can visit some of the most famous locations around the globe right on your door-step! Check out Around the World in Otaki Part One here .

Otaki has come along way, the beautiful Rangiatea Church was destroyed in a horrific fire, but rebuilt by the community, there is amazing shopping on the main highway and on Main street, the Beach Pavillion is still used the by public.   It may not be a post office anymore, but it's a well used and well loved building housing cultural art work. We've put togther a couple of then and now photographs. What do you remember from this wonderful town ?

Retracing your family steps and finding out where you come from can be an amazing step back into history. Otaki and Te Horo both have a wonderful and rich history, and using the local resources available you'll be able to research your family tree. Who know's who you'll find...

"This year I was lucky enough to follow the Maoriland story for the whole week. Everyday I woke up wondering what I would see, hear, and be reflecting on by the day’s end.  Personal highlights for me would be the enthusiasm for the festival from our local schools, particularly on Wednesday morning at the Wananga where the students creations were watched, cheered and critiqued. What an opportunity, to realize that a creative act can be carved out right here at home in Otaki using just talent, enthusiasm and hard work." Simon Neale - Otaki Threads

How many different ways can you photograph the word Otaki, we've put together a few to get you started, what can you do, shells, sticks, water, leaves, people, what ever you can get your hands on, photograph the word Otaki with what you can find...

Every country develops its own slang, which can make it difficult for overseas visitors to understand. New Zealand is no exception, often the same word, for example "True" can have three very different meanings.

Be part of an amazing and beautiful cultural experience, learn about Otaki’s rich history and explore the historic sites of Otaki with Zilchoo's 10 ways to discover Otaki's Rich History... 

Otaki`s Main street is dominated by then Otaki Bank Heritage Preservation Trust building .This was  bujlt in 1918 as a Bank of New Zealand  branch  and sold  to the Otaki Borough Council in 1965.  However the building became vacant when the Borough  Council was abolished in 1989 when its  functions were  taken over by the newly established   Kapiti Coast District Council .