Alayna Flighty | Holtom's Art Studios, Paekākāriki
Artist registrations are now open for the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail 2026 — one of the district’s biggest community events and a highlight of our local creative calendar.
This year the Art Trail will take place on new dates: Labour Weekend (24–26 October) and 31 October–1 November, giving visitors even more opportunity to explore studios, galleries and creative spaces across the Kāpiti Coast.
Event dates: Labour Weekend 24–26 October and 31 October–1 November 2026
Registrations close: 5pm, Wednesday 15 April
Artist places available: Approximately 140
Participation options: Open your own studio or join a shared exhibition space
The Art Trail is a unique opportunity for artists to connect directly with visitors, grow their audience, showcase their work and sell their art. Each year the event draws thousands of visitors to experience the vibrant creative community of Kāpiti.
Artists can open their own studios to the public or collaborate with others in shared spaces or galleries — a great option for newcomers wanting to experience the Art Trail for the first time.
Visitors consistently tell us that meeting artists in their own creative spaces is what makes the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail so special. The kaupapa of the event therefore remains firmly focused on ‘Artist in Studio’.
Due to the popularity of the event, participation will again be limited to around 140 artists. Some places will be reserved for exhibition venues and new or emerging artists.
Registrations are generally considered on a first-in, first-served basis, while also taking suburb and artistic medium into account to ensure a good spread across the district.
Before registering, please read the Terms & Conditions for information about fees and artist criteria.
Ready to share your work with thousands of visitors and be part of one of Kāpiti’s most loved creative events?
Artist registrations close 5pm, Wednesday 15 April.
Register now to secure your place in the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail 2026.
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