The Ōtaki Kite Festival 2025, held on March 8-9, 2025, at Ōtaki Beach, New Zealand, successfully concluded with a vibrant display of kites, cultural performances, and engaging activities. Families, friends, and kite enthusiasts gathered at the beautiful coastal location to enjoy the annual event, which showcased a variety of kites, music, and traditional performances.
📍 Festival Overview
▪ Event Name: Ōtaki Kite Festival 2025
▪ Dates: March 8 (Saturday) – March 9 (Sunday), 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
▪ Location: Ōtaki Beach, Marine Parade, Ōtaki, Kapiti Coast
▪ Admission: Free
▪ Official Website: https://www.otakikitefestival.co.nz
Organized by the Ōtaki Promotions Group in collaboration with the Kāpiti Coast District Council, the festival featured kite flying, Māori cultural performances (Kapa Haka), Japanese Taiko drumming, and live music at the Zeal Stage.
🎏 The Sky Filled with Kites
The highlight of the festival was undoubtedly the impressive kite displays. Visitors had the opportunity to fly their own kites or watch massive, intricately designed kites shaped like whales, dragons, and octopuses soaring in the sky.
One festival attendee commented, “Seeing the sky filled with colorful kites against the ocean backdrop was breathtaking. It was an unforgettable experience.”
The kite-flying sessions took place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days, though weather conditions could affect the schedule. Visitors planning to attend in the future are encouraged to check the weather forecast in advance.
🎤 Cultural Performances & Activities
In addition to kites, the festival offered a variety of performances and hands-on experiences that captivated visitors of all ages.
📅 Event Schedule
March 8 (Saturday)
- 11:00 AM Kelly & Co Big Dig (at the beach)
- 11:30 AM Zeal Stage: Carys Ferguson
- 12:00 PM Tui
- 1:00 PM Zeal Stage: Intercite
- 2:30 PM James Stent
- 3:30 PM Charli
- 4:00 PM Festival closes
March 9 (Sunday)
- 11:00 AM Kelly & Co Big Dig (at the beach)
- 11:00 AM The Shed Project (on stage)
- 11:30 AM Ōtaki College Kapa Haka (Māori cultural performance)
- 12:00 PM Taiko Drummers (Japanese drum performance)
- 1:00 PM Zeal Stage performance
- 2:00 PM Taiko Drummers
- 3:00 PM Zeal Stage: The Mi
- 4:00 PM Festival closes
The Kapa Haka performance by Ōtaki College showcased Māori traditional dance and singing, while the Taiko drumming performance added a dynamic rhythm to the festivities.
Kelly & Co Big Dig was a treasure hunt event for children, allowing young visitors to dig in the sand for hidden prizes such as bicycles, ice cream vouchers, and toys. The activity was a major hit among families.
🚗 How to Get to Ōtaki Beach & Parking Information
📍 Location: Ōtaki Beach, Marine Parade, Ōtaki, Kapiti Coast
👉 Google Maps Link: https://www.google.com/maps/place/%C5%8Ctaki+Beach/
🚎 Public Transport
Visitors coming from Wellington can take a train or bus to Ōtaki and then use local transportation to reach the beach. The nearest train station is Ōtaki Station, with buses available for the remaining distance.
🚗 Driving to Ōtaki Beach
- Driving time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Wellington
- Free parking: Available near the beach and in designated public areas
- Important note: Do not park in private business parking lots, as unauthorized vehicles may be towed.
🍔 Food Trucks & Local Cuisine
A variety of food stalls and trucks were set up around the festival, offering visitors a delicious selection of food and drinks.
🌮 Tacos & Hot Dogs
🍦 Locally made ice cream
🦐 Fresh seafood dishes
Ōtaki is known for its high-quality local seafood, making the seafood dishes a must-try at the festival.
🎉 A Successful Festival & Future Expectations
Ōtaki Kite Festival 2025 brought together a vibrant mix of kite displays, cultural performances, and engaging activities, creating a memorable experience for visitors.
A festival organizer shared, “Each year, we see an increasing number of visitors. We will continue to expand the program to ensure that the festival remains a fun, family-friendly event for everyone.”
The Ōtaki Kite Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place on the second weekend of March next year. Visitors can stay updated by checking the official website and social media pages.
📌 Official Website:
👉 https://www.otakikitefestival.co.nz
📌 Official Facebook:
👉 https://www.facebook.com/otakikitefestival
📌 Official Instagram:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/otakikitefestival
📌 Kāpiti Coast Official Event Page:
👉 https://www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/whats-on/events/otaki-kite-festival/
Next year’s festival promises even more exciting kites, performances, and activities for all attendees!