Fun for the whole family
Ever watched a waka glide across the water and wondered what it would be like to be in one? Now’s your chance to find out.
Maitahi Outrigger Canoe Club is running a series of “Give it a Go” days at Tahunanui Beach, and everyone is welcome. Look for our red Maitahi banners waving on the beach, come up and say hi, then jump in a waka with us. No experience and no pressure, just a friendly crew and a great time on the water.
The dates:
Sunday 29 November, 10am – 1pm
Sunday 13 December, 10am – 1pm
Sunday 10 January, 10am – 1pm
Cost: free, All equipment supplied
What to Bring: togs, a towel, sunscreen, a water bottle, clothes that can get wet
Younger kids: if under-18s need a parent or guardian present
Weather: Dates subject to weather (See our Facebook page for updates)
Safety first: we supply lifejackets and all the safety equipment, and you’ll be in the hands of experienced paddlers and steerers the whole time.
What’s on the day
Try a waka: hop in with our crew and feel the glide for yourself.
Give singles a go: keen to taste what it’s like on the water in a single-person outrigger? We’ll help you get started.
Flip & Float drills: for our members, a chance to sharpen your safety skills.
Waka Ama is more than a sport
Waka ama is steeped in the history and traditions of waka voyaging across the Pacific, and Māori culture is part of the sport, from the language to the protocols we follow. At its heart is a culture of sharing, building good relationships with fellow paddlers, living a healthy and active lifestyle, and treating everyone with respect. That’s the spirit you’ll find on our beach, in our waka and around the club.
Waka ama is a team sport, so everyone paddles together, in time, towards the same goal. Strength and fitness help, but technique, rhythm and teamwork count just as much. A first-timer can sit alongside a seasoned racer and still be a valued part of the crew. Some of our paddlers love a relaxed social paddle and a catch-up. Others chase the thrill of racing. There’s room for both, and everything in between.
Age is not a barrier. Neither is experience, fitness or background.
Our paddlers range from around 6 to 90 years old. Whether you’re a curious kid, a busy parent, a keen retiree or a nervous first-timer, there’s a seat in the waka with your name on it. Bring your whānau, bring your mates, or come on your own and meet some new ones.
All you need to bring is a sense of adventure. We’ll provide the rest.
See you on the sand! 🌊
Got any pātai (Questions)? Contact us
