Books & Co

The best stories are often found off the beaten track, and just off State Highway 1 in Ōtaki you’ll find Books & Co – one of the region’s neatest little bookshops with shelves packed with ideas and plenty of reasons to linger.

From the window displays to the tall, dark shelves stacked with books, the store has the feel of a proper old-school bookshop. It’s a bibliophile’s paradise, with uniform shelving lining every available wall and encouraging you to peruse at your leisure. The long table in the middle is also overflowing with all manner of tomes, giving the space a nice symmetry and making it a breeze to browse. The statement is clear – if you’re here to hunt out a new read, chances are you’ll be leaving with at least a couple.

There’s certainly plenty to discover, from crime; thrillers; sci-fi; fantasy; romance and romantasy; to a strong selection of non-fiction. New Zealand history and biography sit alongside books on te reo Māori and te ao Māori, as well as cooking, gardening, and lifestyle titles. The dedicated children’s area is a particular highlight, with picture books, games, and plenty to capture younger imaginations. And it’s not just books you’ll discover here either, with a thoughtful selection of gifts – mugs, baby gifts, a proudly Kiwi fashion range, and more – rounding out the experience.

In keeping with its status as the only truly independent bookshop on the Kāpiti Coast, Books & Co is committed to getting to know its customers and fostering a genuine community. The space is kept busy with regular activities, from author events to four book clubs a month. Whether you’re stopping by to pick up your next read or hear from your favourite local authors, a visit to Books & Co is sure to be an important chapter in your day.