Katikati’s natural beauty and community pride take centre stage in the newly-released 2026 Katikati Calendar, which is now for sale.

The calendar features photographs submitted by local residents in response to the Love Katikati photo competition held in August by Katch Katikati.

Katch Katikati digital and marketing manager Fiona Powell said the competition invited residents to capture images reflecting their appreciation for the town.

“A total of 42 photographers submitted 96 images, with 13 selected by a judging panel to be featured in the inaugural calendar – one for each month and one for the cover.”

The image for November was taken by Katikati resident Claudia Diggelmann, who has a spectacular view of the Tauranga Harbour from her backyard.

“I’m a photoholic,” said the 94-year-old. “That’s one of my oldest photos [of the view] I think.”

Always beautiful

Diggelmann said a long-time friend had got her into photography long ago, and the passion has grown from there. She entered three photographs in the competition – and one was chosen. The photograph is from her backyard and features Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour and Tutaetaka Island, a sacred Māori burial (urupā) place for local hapū, Ngāi Tamawhariua and Te Rereatukahia Marae whānau.

Diggelmann said this view is always beautiful and changes daily with the weather.

Powell said judging was carried out by representatives from Katipo Creative Studio, Katikati Open Air Art, and Katch Katikati.

“The panel noted the high standard of entries and the difficulty in narrowing down the final selection.”

While none of the chosen photographs featured the town’s well-known murals or iconic sculptures such as Barry and Jack the dog, the final selection offered something equally valuable – a fresh perspective on Katikati’s lesser-known places.

Quiet, everyday scenes

“Many of the images highlighted quiet, everyday scenes – often with water playing a central role, whether the Uretara Stream or views of Tauranga Harbour,” said a spokesperson for the judging panel. “They revealed a personal connection to the landscape and to Katikati as a whole.”

The calendar was an initiative led by Powell, who has long envisioned a locally-driven calendar project to help promote the town. This year, a private sponsor came forward to fund the first print run, making the vision a reality.

Printed locally by Katipo Creative Studio, the calendar reflects a commitment to supporting local talent and businesses. It is available for purchase for $25 at The Arts Junction, while stocks last.

“We were thrilled with the response from the community,” said Powell. “It’s clear that Katikati holds a special place in people’s hearts, and this calendar captures that sentiment beautifully. We hope it becomes an annual tradition.”

Community spirit

The featured photographers for the 2026 calendar are: Kylie Watkins, Tessa Blackett, Richard Addison, Faye Moorhouse, Victoria Denyer, Ruth Taylor, Jocelyn Weir, Karen Crozier, Mats Mönch, Liv Flett, and Claudia Diggelmann.

Powell said Katch Katikati extends sincere thanks to all who entered and shared their unique view of the town.

“The Love Katikati calendar stands as a visual reminder of the pride, creativity, and community spirit that define Katikati.”