Creative tourism in Kāpiti has been boosted with the addition of the Creative Manaaki Winter Series. Offering 15 creative workshops for adults and children, six Art for Everyone exhibitions in Paraparaumu, Raumati and Ōtaki, and three meet the artist/exhibition openings, this all weather event is perfect for the Winter season. Exhibitions and supporting events are free to attend. Creative Workshop tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com/cc/creative-manaaki-winter-series-425139
“This is our first exhibition outside our recently renovated building” says Alan Wehipeihana, one of 12 artists based in the Holtom’s building in Paekākāriki. “It is great to have the support of Creative Manaaki collaborating with businesses in the community to make these opportunities available to artists.” Dianna Fary agrees. “We’re really looking forward to our opening on Thursday 9 June in Kiwibank Paraparaumu and seeing people connect through art.” 
Holtom’s Art Studios Exhibition, Creative Manaaki Gallery, Kiwibank Paraparaumu
The exhibition of contemporary art by Holtom’s Art Studios is one of six in the Creative Manaaki Art for Everyone programme, curated by Sandra Smillie. Participating businesses also invite the public to view exhibitions at the following venues:
Raumati Social Club – Jordan Harcourt-Hughes
NZ Sotheby’s International Wellington in Raumati Village – David Owen
Robert Harris, Coastlands – Studio Reset Encaustic Art and Anthea Evelyn Design
Labour Electorate Paraparaumu office of MP’s Barbara Edmonds and Terisa Ngobi – Kapiti Art Studio
Kim Kobialko and Anthea Weir at their exhibition in Robert Harris, Coastlands
“We’re seeing an upsurge in people seeking creative participation experiences for wellbeing, for reconnecting with friends and making up for lost fun in Summer due to Covid” says Jenna-Lea Philpott, director of Creative Manaaki. “Our 600 member industry group has always believed that creative tourism is a way to attract new audience, helping to increase income for creatives and the wider economy. When the new Orange setting was announced, we knew we had to get on and make this event happen to help people connect with each other again and have access to creative wellbeing this Winter.”
Sold Out – Leaf Printmaking with Gelli Plates with Morag Stokes
The variety of creative workshops on offer is a reflection of the available skills in the district’s creative industries. Adults can participate in clay making, abstract art, meditative colour practice and happy hour collage, as well as learn how to free their voice for wellbeing. Children can make NZ native bird mobiles, 3D box houses, fairy doors, and more. All workshops take place in a variety of venues to cater for all tastes and increase accessibility and participation, including artist studios, hospitality, corporate, and wellbeing venues.
“There is something about the creative process that gives the mind a break from everyday life and the joy of making with friends is a rewarding experience” says ceramic sculpture artist, Storm Davenport. “Working with Creative Manaaki has helped me to reach a new audience and has strengthened my creative practice so I’m delighted to participate in the first Winter Series.”
