Waka ama winter series
Top of the South – waka ama interclub winter series. Strengthening the bonds we share of paddling waka and being on the water.
All club members are encouraged to participate
Each year the waka ama clubs in the Top of the South hold a series of waka ama races with each club hosting one event in their area. The clubs, Onetahua (Golden Bay), Motueka (Kaiteriteri), Maitahi, Te Tai & Whakatu Marae (Nelson) and Waikawa (Picton) are competing for the trophy.
The series usually runs from May to October and is a great chance for all paddlers to get a taste of racing, whether they normally compete or are just social paddlers. It’s is a very relaxed atmosphere and a great chance to catch up with our extended waka whānau in the region. The club will send out a Teamer notification to see who is keen to participate.
Waikawa hosts at Picton
The first event in the series is usually in May and many members make a weekend of it in Picton. In the past we have enjoyed a paddle to Lochmara for coffee on the day after the race. It’s always a great couple of days and for many new paddlers it’s their first taste of racing in a welcoming and friendly environment.
Here is the information on this year’s race.
Onetahua hosts in Golden Bay
Golden Bay normally turns on fabulous weather for some great paddling out around the shag colonies at Tata Islands, through to the mussel farms in Wainui Bay.
Again, it’s often a whole weekend away for club members and Onetahua are always great hosts.
Top of the South @ Nelson
This is Maitahi’s home leg of the Winter series.
It’s a great chance to get some local racing under your belt as well as help with putting on the race for our visitors.
Motueka hosts at Kaiteretere
Moteuka host a great event from the beach at Kaiteretere. Always lots of fun and a chance to head out towards the iconic Split Apple Rock.
Maitahi normally takes a large contingent to this race.
Its never too early or too late to start paddling waka ama
We welcome new members to the Maitahi Outrigger Canoe Club. Maitahi has social and racing waka ama crews catering for a wide variety of ages and abilities.