Festival of Pots and Garden Art
Celebrating Artistry and Creativity
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Join us Wellington Anniversary Weekend at Anam Cara Gardens in Ōtaki for a captivating five-day celebration of pottery and garden art
This annual event brings together talented artists, musicians and art enthusiasts to showcase, explore, and experience the beauty of ceramics with live music in a stunning garden setting. From Thursday 15th January – Monday 19th January 2026, 10am – 4pm daily, with a late night until 8pm on the Friday. Entry: $5 per person, free for under-16s (door sales only) |
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Visitors can enjoy an impressive range of pottery and garden art, watch live demonstrations, enjoy the ambiance and even try their hand at clay with our free 'have a go' sessions. Each year features guest artist talks, an expanded exhibition space, and new creative experiences.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to be inspired, connect with artists, and take home a special piece of handcrafted art.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to be inspired, connect with artists, and take home a special piece of handcrafted art.
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
2026
The 2026 Festival of Pots and Garden Art proudly features three exceptional guest artists. Celebrated ceramicist Fiona Tunnicliffe brings her much-loved animal-inspired works, full of character and intricate detail. Award-winning painter Shona Mackenzie shares 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 add a striking three-dimensional presence to the festival. Together, their diverse talents promise an inspiring and memorable experience.
Fiona Tunnicliffe
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Win Oliver
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Shona Mackenzie
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Live Music at the Festival of Pots and Garden Art
Enjoy live music woven through the Festival of Pots, with outstanding local and national performers adding atmosphere, warmth, and a little magic to the weekend. Come for the pots, stay for the music.
Unity Wara
Sunday morning, 11am (18 January)
We’re delighted to welcome back Unity Wara, a dynamic and multi-talented performer known for her powerful, soulful voice and captivating stage presence. Now based in Kāpiti and teaching Māori performing arts, kapa haka, and vocals, Unity’s performances blend song, guitar, looping, Māori instruments, and elements of her cultural heritage. Having performed internationally and supported artists such as Stan Walker and Hollie Smith, Unity brings energy, heart, and connection to the festival.
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 15th January – Monday 19th January 2026 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.