Back in 2009, we collectively set a target of reaching 10,000 affiliated members, and this milestone marks the halfway point towards achieving that goal.

It is important to have goals, but it is just as important to celebrate the achievements along the journey. As a sport we have come a very long way, and this milestone is certainly the result of a combined effort of everyone involved in our sport at a national, regional, club and paddler level. 

In the five years since 2011, Waka Ama's affiliated membership has increased from 2536 to 5000. That is an increase of 97% - statistics that any sport in New Zealand would be proud of. 

From 6-year-old midgets to our wise master 70's, we have grown in paddler numbers across all ages; we have grown in the number of clubs that exist; our regions are strengthening; and  our national office is world leading. All these achievements within our 25 year vision are underpinned by strong values, teamwork across our sport at all levels, good planning and a desire to all paddle our waka together to achieve the goals set.  

In 2016 we have just commenced our sports 3rd strategic plan, that is aimed at achieving our 25 year vision set in 2009. There are many more exciting milestones to achieve together. 

Congratulations to everyone on reaching 5000 members today. 

He waka eke noa!

Ngā mihi nui 

Paora Howe                                               Lara Collins
Board Chair                                               Chief Executive 
Nga Kaihoe o Aotearoa,                             Nga Kaihoe o Aotearoa,
Waka Ama New Zealand Inc.                    Waka Ama New Zealand Inc.                      

Link to our membership thermometer http://wakaama.co.nz/statistics/2016/general/thermometer