The annual Kāpiti Coast Art Trail 2026 offers an opportunity to explore one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most vibrant creative communities, inviting visitors into the studios, workshops, galleries and shared exhibition spaces of artists working across the region. Now in its 26th year, the self-guided event takes place over two weekends, spanning over Labour Weekend and the following weekend. The 2026 edition brings together more than 140 participating artists across 117 sites, alongside 13 galleries representing over 300 artists in total, stretching from Paekākāriki to Ōtaki.

The trail encompasses a diverse range of artistic practices, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photography, jewellery, textiles and mixed media. From established practitioners to emerging artists, it offers a broad view of the region’s creative landscape, with opportunities to discover both traditional techniques and contemporary approaches to making.

Among the participating spaces are Toi MAHARA in Waikanae, home to the Field Collection, and the historic Kilns at Te Horo, where visitors can explore the distinctive beehive kilns of celebrated potter Mirek Smíšek. Elsewhere, independent studios provide a more intimate encounter with artists and their practices, from experimental painting and ceramics to contemporary jewellery and textile art.