22 wakaama teams competed over three races, novice and junior 5kms, women’s, mixed and men’s 15kms. Teams came from Auckland and throughout Northland. 18 single and doubles paddlers competed in wakaama, kayaks and surfskis, including Olympic champion Ben Fuohy.

Parihaka chairperson Richard Pehi says “It was a fabulous day, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions, we can only see this getting bigger next year. Our idea was to create an event that attracted paddlers to come to Whangarei – to have a great experience on and off the water. What an awesome way to celebrate Matariki – doing something we love with our families”. Mr Pehi notetd that Team Anderson from Manuakau consisted of all whanau members who were celebrating Matariki – a great example of whanau celebrating together.

The inaugural Hoe Matariki trophy was awarded to Nga Hoe Uranga ki Kaipara, a club based in Pahi, a recently new club formed in 2005. Parihaka Sports Club gifted the taonga to Nga Hoe Uranga ki Kaipara for their work in fostering wakaama in the Kaipara and upholding the kaupapa of wakaama. Club member Kim Phillips, who accepted the award on behalf of the Nga Hoe Uranga ki Kaipara, said “ we are really humbled and proud to receive this award and we dedicate it to one of the founders of our club Te Rihia Waata who gifted the club our name.”

This event was supported with funding from Whangarei District Council and the Whangarei Harbour Marina Management Trust as well as several local businesses including Sportman’s Choice and Marine North.

Ngaire