Waka Ama is gaining traction as a sport in Central and a new group of paddlers are training for regattas in New Zealand and the Pacific.

Culture is deeply embedded in the inclusive sport, with language, protocols and a strong connection to the voyaging and history of waka sailing for Māori, a part of why many people love it.

Waka Ama (outrigger canoe) leader Henry Heather said the sport was “the whole package” with it opening up windows into history for people, as some people have ended up finding out about their whakapapa (genealogy) and cultural stories after giving waka ama

paddling a go.

“We started out as social paddlers first, then people start to get keen.”

Henry said there was a "hearty lot” of ladies who kept on coming back to train.

“Now they’re keen to kick on with the sport… and have some goals to paddle in regattas both in New Zealand and Rarotonga.”

The Cook Islands regatta “Vaka Eiva” is held in mid November, and for one of the races paddlers make a 36km trip around the island.  

One Alexandra woman new to the sport, Sharne Paranihi said waka ama had taken her out of her comfort zone.

Sharne Paranihi. PHOTO: Supplied 

“In turn it has given me confidence. It’s also a sport I can do with my children, and we can enjoy and do it together.”

Sharne’s children, Sienna and Charlie with waka ama leader Grant Olds. PHOTO: Supplied 

Henry said the two waka in Central sit six people each, but they could be joined together to make a 12 seater.

A long term aim for the group is to establish a club and get more people involved.

Two local high schools Cromwell College and Dunstan High School have had pupils on the water to give waka ama a go, and this is something that Henry would like to see more of.

He acknowledged that there are a wide range of sports also vying for young athletes such as rowing, and dragon boating and then winter sports too.

“It’s a bit of a slow process.”

Whakatipu Waka Ama is the closest club, and has been going for ten years. 

Henry first took up the sport about seven years ago when he was in the Hawkes Bay and hoped to keep paddling going over the winter. 

Moving the waka out of the lake. PHOTO: Supplied 

Waka Ama Manuherekia is a community initiative under Uruuruwhenua Hauora.

For more information get in touch with Henry on 022 198 2670 or check out Waka Ama Manuherekia on Facebook

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]