The Te Awa Tupua – Whanganui River Race will be held on 25 July 2026 and marks the one-year anniversary of the incorporation of Tai Awa Waka Ama. This event represents an important milestone for our club as we reflect on our first year of establishment and celebrate the growth of our whānau and hāpori.
Tai Awa Waka Ama was established to create opportunities for our local hāpori to connect through waka ama while strengthening relationships with our awa, and upholding the cultural values that sit at the heart of our club. Our kaupapa is guided by the principles of kotahitanga (unity), whanaungatanga (connection and relationships), whai oranga (wellbeing), and tiakitanga (guardianship). These values shape the way we train, host events, and engage with our whānau and hāpori.
The decision to host a W1 singles race was intentional. While there are many team-based waka ama events throughout the region, there are fewer opportunities for paddlers to compete in a format dedicated specifically to W1 paddling. By hosting a singles event, we aim to provide paddlers with an opportunity to challenge themselves individually, develop their skills, and experience the unique connection between paddler, waka, and awa.
The event also provides a valuable opportunity for paddlers to prepare for the upcoming Long Distance Nationals, which will be held at Orewa Beach in October. The race will allow paddlers to test themselves in a competitive W1 environment, build endurance, and refine their race preparation as they work toward national competition.
The race will be hosted at our club base, Te Ao Hou Marae in Whanganui, providing an opportunity to welcome visiting paddlers onto our rohe and share the beauty and significance of the Whanganui River. Our intention is not only to host a competitive race but also to create an event that celebrates our awa an important part of our identity and wellbeing.
Through this event, Tai Awa Waka Ama hopes to showcase our club, strengthen relationships across the waka ama community, and encourage paddlers from across the motu to experience the mana and beauty of the awa while paddling in a safe, welcoming, and kaupapa-driven environment.
