Tuna E Hoe Ana (Paddling with the Eels)

Maitahi Lake Rotoiti race 2017

Tuna E Hoe Ana (Paddling with the Eels)

Maitahi's annual regatta

A Unique alpine waka ama experience

Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes

This is the first year this race has been sanctioned by Waka Ama NZ.
Read the Panui

All races are held in Kerr Bay, Lake Rotoiti, on a course which has lots of turns. The racing is visible from the shore at all times, so makes for great spectator viewing.

There is racing for singles, doubles and W6 across a range of divisions for both experienced and novice paddlers. Crews can change paddlers between races making it a fun and exciting format.

 

Note: This video was made before the drone ban was in place at Lake Rotoiti

February 20th & 21st 2026

Regatta schedule

Friday: 4.00 - 7.00pm
Races for one and two-person waka ama (OC1, V1, OC2).

Saturday: 8.00am - 2.00pm, races for six-person waka ama for men's, women's, mixed & novice races. Races are followed by dinner and prize giving at 5.15pm.

tune-e-hoe-ana-lakes-race-logo
Pub charity logo
Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō logo

Sausage sizzle at lunchtime

There will be a BBQ sausage sizzle and T-shirts and caps for sale (cash and internet banking).

Come prepared!

Remember this is an alpine event and the weather can be much colder than at sea level – also we share the lake with sandflies, wasps, and bumble bees - if allergic, please come prepared!

No Dogs, No Drones & No Freedom Camping

Please note that dogs and drones are not permitted in Kerr Bay, as it is in a National Park. Freedom camping is not permitted at the lake (however, there are DOC camping grounds at Kerr Bay and at West Bay). We  ask all our paddlers and whanau to respect these DOC rules

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Race Information

To view the race panui you will need to check out the event on the Waka Ama NZ website.

Race Results