Otakiis a town in theKapiti Coast Districtof theNorth IslandofNew Zealand. It is located onNew Zealand State Highway 1and theNorth Island Main TrunkrailwaybetweenWellingtonandAucklandand marks the northernmost point of the Wellington Region.
The town is sited close to the banks of theOtaki River, 4 kilometres from its outflow into theTasman Sea. There are recreational walks and cycling along the river and north of the mouth of the river is Otaki Beach. The safe sandy beach is popular as a swimming and fishing destination.
Otaki is home to Te Wānanga o Raukawa aTikanga Māoriuniversity. It also hosts the annual Maoriland Film Festival and Otaki Kite Festival.
Otaki Forks is the western gateway to theTararua Forest Park. It offers recreational activities ranging from short walks, swimming, rafting and kayaking to advanced tramps of 3 – 5 days duration, including the Southern Crossing that ends atKaitoke45km northeast of Wellington.