Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Challenge is an event hosted by Ngā Kete Matauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust and Te Ara a Kewa Waka Ama Trust, and sits within the takiwa of Oraka Aparima Runaka, Lake Te Anau. The Whakatauki – Ki Uta Ki Tai (From the mountains to the sea) encompasses this takiwa.

This event is sponsored by Oraka Aparima Rūnaka and Nga Kete Matauranga Pounamu (Māori Health Organisation based in Invercargill), and will be based at the Marakura Yacht Club, Lake Te Anau and involve racing for rangatahi and pakeke.

This event was held for the first time in October of 2020. Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge is supported by the Te Anau community and offers Kaihoe and supporters (near and far) an opportunity to paddle and enjoy the majesty and beauty of Fiordland.

While the focus for Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge is paddling, it is also about bringing whānau together and engaging in a healthy activity that benefits all.