Chance to give waka ama a go Ruamata Waka Ama Club

From left, Te Pumanaawa o Toku ate Rogers, 9, Waikimihia Douglas-Karauna, 9, Waiora Hudson, 9, and Ella Gotz, 8. PHOTO/BEN FRASER

Paddle your own waka or join a crew with others, waka ama is a sport for everyone, according to paddler Yvonne Rogers.

She is a member of the Ruamata Waka Ama Club, which is extending a welcome to anyone who has never tried the sport, to give it a go this weekend.

"The benefits of the sport are endless. Anyone can do it. You can get started at any age and we have people in their 70s and 80s competing," she said.

The sport is rapidly growing with thousands of people regularly competing in national competitions. More than 30 clubs have signed up for the Bay of Plenty/Waikato regional competition at Karapiro in December.

From left, Te Pumanaawa o Toku ate Rogers, 9, Waikimihia Douglas-Karauna, 9, Waiora Hudson, 9, and Ella Gotz, 8. PHOTO/BEN FRASER

More young people are becoming involved in the sport, and waka ama organisers are encouraging healthy eating habits to go hand in hand with the sport.

Unhealthy food and fizzy drinks were not welcome at these events, said Ms Rogers.

She said the sport was safe, fun and healthy, and was good for mental and physical wellbeing.

"Being on the water is very healing. You just let everything go."

Mrs Rogers has been a paddler for nearly 14 years and her first paddling event was a fun corporate weekend with work colleagues. From that initial weekend she was hooked.

Not only does the sport get you active, depending on how competitive you are, you get the chance to travel.

"I have travelled all over New Zealand and slowly I am making my way around the world. Rotorua took a huge contingent to the worlds in May and our club won gold."

People attending the whanau fun day should bring togs, towel and lunch. It is suitable for those with physical disabilities.

For more information contact Yvonne Rogers on 027 477 8961.

What: Waka Ama Whanau Fun Day
Where: Ruamata Club, 44 Waikuta Rd, Ngongotaha
When: Saturday 10am-12pm
How much: Koha or gold coin