Festival of Pots and Garden Art
Celebrating Artistry and Creativity
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Join us each Wellington Anniversary Weekend for the much-loved Festival of Pots and Garden Art, presented by Ōtaki Pottery Club and held in the beautiful surroundings of Anam Cara Gardens.
This vibrant five-day celebration brings together talented ceramic artists, sculptors, painters, musicians, and art lovers for an inspiring weekend of creativity, connection and discovery. Stroll through stunning garden pathways filled with pottery and garden art, watch live demonstrations, enjoy music drifting through the trees, and even try clay for yourself. Festival hours Thursday - Monday, Wellington Anniversary weekend 10am – 4pm daily Late night Friday until 8pm Entry $5 per person Free for under-16s Door sales only Each year we release a full programme of demonstrations, workshops and performances closer to the event. |
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About the Festival
The Festival of Pots and Garden Art is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse display of artistic expressions. It serves as a platform for emerging and established artists to come together, exchange ideas, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to witness stunning exhibitions, interactive workshops, live demonstrations, and engaging discussions that shed light on the creative process and the rich history of pottery. Guests will also have the chance to purchase a treasure of their own to take home from the artisan market.
Festival of Pots Featured Guest Artists
Each year we feature a curated selection of guest artists across ceramics, sculpture, painting and mixed media.
Featured artists change annually to keep the festival fresh and inspiring.
👉 Upcoming guest artists and workshop details are announced closer to the event.
Featured artists change annually to keep the festival fresh and inspiring.
👉 Upcoming guest artists and workshop details are announced closer to the event.
The 2026 Festival of Pots and Garden Art proudly featured three exceptional guest artists. Celebrated ceramicist Fiona Tunnicliffe brought her much-loved animal-inspired works, full of character and intricate detail. Award-winning painter Shona Mackenzie shared her evocative semi-abstract pieces, influenced by the beauty of nature and her ties to New Zealand and Scotland. Completing this year’s line-up is sculptor Win Oliver, whose imaginative forms added a striking three-dimensional presence to the festival. Together, their diverse talents created an inspiring and memorable experience.
Fiona Tunnicliffe
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Win Oliver
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Shona Mackenzie
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Festival Highlights
Kelly & Co - Have a Go!Learn from the best! Participate in hands-on free activities led by skilled potters, where you can learn pottery techniques or try your hand at the wheel.
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Guest Artist TalksEngage in insightful conversations with featured artists as they share their artistic journey, and experiences in the world of pottery.
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Live DemonstrationsWitness the magic unfold as talented artists showcase their skills through live pottery-making demonstrations.
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Kindly sponsored by Kelly & Co Realty and supported by KCDC and CNZ
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Onsite CaféTo enhance your Festival of Pots and Garden Art experience, Anam Cara Gardens offers the convenience use of an onsite café which Ōtaki Pottery Club utilise.
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Take a break from exploring the stunning pottery displays and workshops and indulge in a delightful selection of refreshments and delicious treats. The café provides a relaxing and welcoming environment where you can savour the moment and connect with fellow art enthusiasts over shared passions.
The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces, along with the convenience of an onsite café and abundant seating, creates an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone attending the Festival of Pots and Garden Art.
The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces, along with the convenience of an onsite café and abundant seating, creates an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone attending the Festival of Pots and Garden Art.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
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Mark your calendars for Wellington Anniversary weekend (January),
and be a part of this enriching and memorable event. Thursday 21st January – Monday 25th January 2027 We look forward to welcoming you to this exceptional celebration of pottery and artistry! Follow us on social media to stay updated with the latest news and announcements about the festival. |
For more information, please contact us:
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Anam Cara Gardens
150 Rangiuru Road, Ōtaki Beach
150 Rangiuru Road, Ōtaki Beach
Our Commitment to Waste MinimisationThe Festival of Pots & Garden Art is committed to reducing waste and caring for our environment. We encourage all visitors, artists, and volunteers to help us minimise what goes to landfill by using the recycling and composting stations provided, choosing reusable containers, and taking personal waste home whenever possible. Together we can keep our festival beautiful, sustainable, and community‑focused.