The growing sport of waka ama sees six paddlers working as a team over varied distances from 500m and 1500m to marathon races of 30 to 75km. The ama or outrigger on the left-hand side balances the waka or canoe, helping it to speed through the water with each stroke of the paddlers.
This very competitive sport also provides a unique link with the past. Outrigger canoes have been used by every Polynesian culture for thousands of years as a means of transport and a way of life and, although the building materials have changed, the technique for paddling remains.
The championship race distances are sprints with the shortest distance being 250m and the longest 1500m. There are straight races and races where the crews have to do up to five hairpin turns, adding excitement for spectator.
The event will be promoting an important water safety message throughout the week and running swimming instruction for youth while the waka ama racing is taking place.
With alarming drowning statistics in New Zealand, this event offers the opportunity for waka ama paddlers to learn more about taking better care of themselves and their mates in our oceans, rivers and waterways.
Water Safety New Zealand will lead the education component of the event. Chief executive Matt Claridge says both Maori and Pacific Island groups are over-represented in our nation's drowning statistics and the waka ama nationals present the ideal opportunity to deliver vital water safety messages and education to participants and their support networks.
"Our team will be on site for the duration, working with our partners, to promote safety as the first priority for any aquatic-based activity."
There is no entry fee for spectators.
For more info please contact Lara Collins on 0275484612. Lane draw and race schedule can be found at www.wakaama.co.nz
