Where We Are

Our Town

Otaki is one of New Zealand's oldest urban settlements and is the pre-eminent historical place on the Kapiti Coast. The town is situated on State Highway 1, half way between Wellington and Palmerston North. It marks the northernmost point of the Wellington Region. The town's population is 5600 (2001 Census).

The town is sited close to the banks of the Otaki River, some three kilometres from its outflow into the Tasman Sea. It is divided into three main parts, Otaki Beach which is mainly residential , the larger and more inland Otaki village which contains the museum, shops and residential areas and along State Highway 1, the part known locally as Otaki Railway.

Our Place

The Otaki Museum building is one of the most historic and prominent on Main street. It was originally built as the Bank of New Zealand in 1918. It was then the Council Chamber for the Otaki Borough Council from 1967 to 1989 and housed the local service centre of the Kapiti Coast District Council until 1998.

It has been restored by the Museum Trust from its near derelict condition to a state that reflects and respects its historic beginnings. The building incorporates fine timber panelling, an elegant staircase, stained glass windows and beautiful pressed metal ceilings.

To find us turn left at the roundabout on the Main Highway. Keep on driving until you reach the township...you can't miss us!