Kayaking Kanakyland Kiwi Style - Canoe & Kayak

ISSUE 54 

Win 

See Page 40 

Kayaking Kanakyland 

Kiwi Style 

Josh Neilson on his latest 

white water film - 

REALM 

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Coast to Coast 2010 

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Kiwis win at Slalom World Champs 

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Issue 54 

contents 

Speight’s Coast to Coast Race Report: 26 

Features 

08 Kiwis Kayaking Kanakyland - Friends & Family paddling 

08 

14 

New Caledonia. 

22 Kayaking Tonga 2009 

48 “Orca!” - Some Sit-on-top kayakers got up close. 

Kayak Fishing 

30 Kayak Fishing - Holiday Style. 

White Water Kayaking 

14 Realm - Josh Neilson’s new film. 

Quick find from the cover 

Kayaking Kanakyland 

Kiwi Style 

Josh Neilson on his latest 

white water film - 

REALM 

I S S U E 5 4 

Win 

See Page 40 

40 

Sea Kayaking 

16 Tail winds, Food and Coffee, make for a very civilised 

time - Kayaking Queen Charlotte Sound. 

32 Remote Camping - Rediscover some of our more 

remote campsites. 

Multisport 

6 What Next? - Finished training for the Speight’s Coast to 

Coast. So where to now? 

12 From Lake to Sea - the inaugural Rangiteiki 

Paddle Marathon. 

26 Speight’s Coast to Coast 2010 - Race report. 

31 Trans Taupo Under New Direction. 

Canoe Slalom 

24 Kiwi Success at Aussie Slalom Nationals. 

Regulars 

5 Editorial 

20 Technical - Insurance, are you covered? 

28 Technical - Beacons of Hope. EPIRBS... 

34 Technical - Rock Snot not the only pest to look out for 

this summer. 

35 Join us for a summer of fun - listings of 

excursions available. 

36 Product Focus - New Skua! 

38 Start your adventure here - Courses available 

40 Smokin’ Aces - Smokers you can take with you. 

41 Buyers Guide 

$7.50 NZ 

$7.50 AUST 

SPONSORED BY 

ALSO INSIDE... 

Coast to Coast 2010 

Some of our favourite remote 

kayak campsites 

Kiwis win at Slalom World Champs 

26 

32 

24 

Front cover photo: Gareth Burgess of Mission Kayaking carving up at 

the Mount. Photo by Steve Knowles (C&K BOP) 

Photo above: Gordon Walker on his way to first - Photo courtesy of 

Discover Another World 

www.sportzhub.co.nz 

4 ISSUE FIFTY Four • 2 0 1 0 www.kayaknz.co.nz

SubScribe to be in to Win one of 50 Dry PocketS. See Page 40 

$7.50 NZ 

$7.50 AUST 

Now’s the time to take time... 

• Coromandel Classic 2009 

• Motu Challenge 2009 

• D’Urville Island Circumnavigation 

• Discover Stewart Island 

SPONSORED BY 


I S S U E 5 3 

$7.50 NZ 

$7.50 AUST 

We discover the joys of taking the family kayaking. 

A follow up on the girls training camp in Nepal. 

SPONSORED BY 


I S S U E 5 2 

tips for taking a newbie kayak fishing. 

• Multisport events for 2009 

• White water paddling 

• Fishing in the Manukau 

$7.50 NZ 

$7.50 AUST 

A sport the whole family can get into. 

and an unplanned polar swim! 

Tale of the tuna, shark and me. 

SPONSORED BY 


I S S U E 5 0 

• Trans Taupo Race results 

• White water paddling Aratiatia 

• Taranaki Fishing Contest 

• Anakiwa Forum Review 

$7.50 NZ 

$7.50 AUST 

• Saltwater Fly Fishing 

• Speight’s Coast to Coast 2009 

• White Water Paddling in Africa and Nepal 

SPONSORED BY 


I S S U E 4 9 

#49-9.indd 1 20/02/2009 10:25:20 

editorial 

Wow, how would you do this? 

Take around 1000 athletes, 

probably 2000 support crew, 

hundreds of officials, set a course 

across the South Island, set up all 

the check points, arrange the traffic 

management including police road 

closures etc, etc, etc, etc. 

That would be out of my league to 

start with, but then picture the potential 

chaos when half way through the race the 

heavens open, the river looks as if it will 

Read these issues online... www.kayaknz.co.nz 

Get the Family Kayaking 

Women and Kayak Fishing 

Karen Knowles talks to a newbie kayak fisher-woman. 

Taking on Jeff’s Joy 

Tony Barrett and the crew take on the rapids. 

Canoe & Kayak wish 

competitors good luck 

in the Speight's 

Coas to Coast 2010 

Getting Kids into Kayaking 

Nepal Update 

Wasps, Wakas & Wekas 

Some unexpected discoveries while paddling the lakes. 

The Buddy System 

Scott Challenor and Steve Knowles provide 

EDITOR: 

Peter Townend 

Ph: 0274 529 255 / (09) 476 7066 

Email: pete@canoeandkayak.co.nz 

PUBLISHER: 

New Zealand Kayak Magazine is published 

five times per year by Canoe & Kayak Ltd. 

PRINTING: MHP Print 

DISTRIBUTION: Gordon & Gotch 

SUBSCRIPTIONS: (see page 40) 

New Zealand – 6 Issues = $40 

Overseas – 6 Issues = $60 

Copyright: The opinions expressed by 

contributors and the information stated in 

advertisements/articles are not necessarily 

flood and the telephone network 

goes down. You would think that 

the race would be cancelled but 

oh no not in these guys hands, 

they just ‘step up to the plate’ with 

the Apollo 13 attitude that ‘failure 

is not an option’. They change 

the course several times to suit 

the conditions and demands of 

government agencies and get 

most people through to finish 

the race. 

Absolutely stunning. Well done Robin 

Judkins, Dale Coulter, his team, all the 

Speights Coast to Coast interview 

Paddling Antartica 

Kayakers experience the magnificence of Antarctica 

Be prepared! 

agreed to by the editors or publisher of New 

Zealand Kayak Magazine. 

Pricing: At the time of printing the prices 

in this magazine were accurate. However 

they may change at any time. 

CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome 

contributors’ articles and photos. 

• Refer to www.canoeandkayak.co.nz. 

New Zealand Kayak Magazine 

‘Contributors’ Guidelines’ for more 

details. 

ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO: 

James Fitness 

Email: james@canoeandkayak.co.nz 


Win 

a $500 

gift voucher 

volunteer officials, the competitors 

and their support crews for organising, 

reorganising and competing in this year’s 

Speight’s Coast to Coast. 

The joy of multisport to me (a very 

part time warrior) is that people are 

enthusiastic and competitive but also 

inclusive and supportive. When I did my 

first Coast to Coast teams event plenty 

of people ran and cycled past me giving 

positive words of encouragement. For 

an undertrained, over extended 40 year 

old this was hugely uplifting. It added 

to the stunning scenery to increase the 

feeling of massive achievement from just 

competing in the race, let alone actually 

finishing. 

If you have not had a go at this 

great sport then pluck up your 

courage and kick start your motivation 

and have a go. You will never 

regret it. 

Have a great remainder of the summer 

and early autumn. Do get out and enjoy 

this settled change of season, warm 

days, cool nights; my favourite part of the 

year. 

Cheers Peter Townend 

www.kayaknz.co.nz 

ISSUE FIFTY Four • 2010 5

What next? 

- James Kuegler shares tips on 

staying motivated post event. 

There is often a similar theme when it comes to the postevent 

actions of many individuals after a race such as the 

Coast to Coast. Chances are you have made significant 

financial, physical, social, family, and emotional sacrifices 

to get to the start line of such an event. 

You elatedly finish, though as you cross the finish line, it is as 

though there is an anti-climactic paradigm shift. For weeks before, 

you likely had single-minded determination and focus towards 

your goal. For weeks, if not months after, you drift without 

direction, feasting on rubbish food and avoiding the likes of 

your inhumane fibreglass kayak seat. The realisation that your 

six-pack has rapidly become a keg, is for many the type of 

emotional jolt that allows them to reset, and refocus towards a 

new aspiration. 

With a goal in mind such a rut is much less likely, even 

less so if you take it one step further and map out a plan for 

beyond your event. As I write I am putting the finishing touches on 

my preparation for the Coast to Coast, and I have also spent some time 

putting the foundations in place as I build towards Total Sport’s North 

Shore City Coastal Challenge. I am definitely not suggesting that there 

shouldn’t be a period of rest and recovery after any event, though by 

“unless my goals raised the hairs on the back 

of my neck... they weren’t powerful enough to 

guarantee success.” 

having the intent and desire already present, it allows me to leapfrog in 

my progression. 

Most people can force themselves to endure the torment of 

training through early mornings, aching muscles and 

unfavorable weather for a (short) period 

of time. I am willing to 

bet that 

your 

motivation will fade, as 

discipline alone will never sustain you 

over a longer period of time. 

This is why your goals need to be extremely real, so vibrant in your 

mind that they are almost tangible. In his book “Lucky Legs”, Steve 

Gurney makes the comment that “unless my goals raised the hairs on 

the back of my neck, made my stomach tighten, put a big cheesy smile 

on my face, made me flush, raised my heart rate or put a really big 

spring in my step, they weren’t powerful enough to guarantee success.” 

Goals of this nature never falter, even when things are not going your 

way. Dr. Kerry Spackman talks of motivation being constantly topped up 


Suppliers of Kayaks to 

Competitors in the 

Speight’s Coast to Coast 

Multisport 

Ruahine Kayaks 

Designers & 

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Benje Patterson: Speight’s Coast to Coast Two Day Individual winner 2006 

Designed to be the fastest multisport kayak in the world. 

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winners Richard Ussher and George Christison. 

06 875 0043 / 021 273 0550 

kevin@ruahinekayaks.co.nz 

www.ruahinekayaks.co.nz 

with positive enthusiasm “The Winner’s Bible”. The same enthusiasm 

that has you leaping out of bed at 5:00am to train your fatigued body in 

merciless conditions. 

Setting goals should be a multi-factorial process and can be quite 

time consuming, though most people find it a lot of fun. The process 

that I recommend using is to list your goals, and explore each one 

to ensure that each is S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, 

Realistic, and Time-based). Find some photos or pictures and create a 

story around the goal. Bring your senses into play, what will it taste and 

smell like not just how it will feel. In doing so you will begin to re-wire 

the circuits in your brain. Your goals should be revisited every day. It 

is not enough to think that merely mapping out your goals is enough 

to cement them in your subconscious mind. Dr. Spackman suggests 

formulating these goals into a private “Winner’s Bible” and spending five 

minutes each morning visualizing, and making your goals come alive, 

so much so that they feel tangible. 

I think it is extremely important to put the major focus on enjoyment 

rather than results. Athletes in endurance based sports always seem to 

be battling an insidious niggle or injury of some description. Too often 

I see peoples ‘world’ fall apart as a result of their inability to train due 

to injury. Though frustrating, in the grand scheme of the major goal it is 

often very minor, and hence with the focus on the enjoyment it is less 

difficult to deal with. In the words of Guatama Buddha “There is no way 

to happiness. Happiness is the way.” 

www.jameskuegler.blogspot.com for more of articles by James. Or 

email jameskuegler@gmail.com for help towards your goals. 

3rd annual 

The pinnacle of open fresh water paddling. 

A 44km paddle race across the pure crystal 

mountain fed waters of New Zealand’s 

3rd annual 

(and Australasia’s) largest freshwater lake. 

surf ski 

Over 200 paddlers sea kayakhave now conquered the 

waka ama 

lake crossing. ocean See rower www.epicevents.co.nz 

for more information, results, 

video footage and photos. 

Sea Kayaks, Surf Ski’s, 

New class for 2010 

Waka ama and Ocean Rower. 5km fun race - Wharewaka Point to the Taupo 

From Tokaanu to Taupo. 

Yacht club - for plastic sit on top kayaks - 

The pinnacle of open fresh Sea Kayaks, Surf Ski’s, 

Full course and Team Relay options 

water paddling. 

a great option for Waka kids ama and and novice Ocean paddlers! Rower. 

(25km and 19km legs) 

From Tokannu to Taupo. 

A 44km paddle race PLUS across Reduced Solo entry and fee Team for Categories. 3-6 person 

the pure crystal mountain 

fed waters of New craft, Zealand’s just $50 per Saturday person, 20th great March for Waka 2010 

(and Australasia’s) largest 

freshwater lake. ama teams. 

New class for 2010 

5km fun race - Wharewaka to the Taupo Yacht club - for plastic 

sit on top kayaks - $20 per person - a great option for kids and novice paddlers! 

PLUS Phone: Reduced 021 983 entry 766 fee for 3-6 person craft, just $50 per person, great for Waka Ama teams. 

Email: nick@epicevents.co.nz 

Over 200 paddlers have now conquered the lake 

crossing. See www.epicevents.co.nz for more 

information, results, video footage and photos. 



Feature 

Kiwis Kayaking Kanakyland 

by Nora Flight 

Do you fancy an easy, warm, one way kayak trip along palm 

lined beaches with occasional foreign cultural exchanges? 

You can paddle, land on a beach, snorkle over multi-coloured 

coral into clear deep blue water on La Cote Oubliee – the 

Forgotten Coast - where kayakers are rarely seen. 

Four ‘Flights’ were in good company with four from the Rynn/Williams 

family planning our trip for 6 months. Though individually and together we 

had enjoyed remote expeditions for many years.This time we were going 

where there is no cell phone or VHF radio coverage. Our sea kayaking 

skills would be critical and of course we had to be ready to cope with 

emergencies. 

On 30 th June ‘09 Bevan and I were checking piles of gear on the cool floor 

of l’auberge de jeunesse in Noumea when fourteen year old Tarn Rynn’s 

distant Kiwi voice caused smiles. The expedition’s eight had meshed. 

Odon Vanhalle heads ‘Terraventure’, an organisation of outdoor 

enthusiasts. He supplied our kayaks and for three hours drove us 

through the rugged hinterland of Noumea to Mamie, the end of the road 

on the South East coast of New Caledonia. It is a typical Kanak village of 

lightly made shacks in tidy yards amid flowering plants. A 90 km coastline 

inaccessible by road, stretched invitingly northwards. 

Early morning camp 4 - Photo by Al Rynn. 

Despite trepidations, in a sweaty 2 hours our plastic Prijon kayak 

doubles were stuffed to the gunwales. The large food 

Will it all fit. Our 'put in' at Mamie. 

bag, bursting 

An easy start on day 1, using a tent fly - 

Photo Al Rynn. 

8 ISSUE FIFTY Four • 2 0 1 0

Feature 

Approaching Menyuru Is with a rare tail breeze. 

 

 

with a mix of French cuisine and Kiwi Freeze 

Dri, stowed between my legs, shrank all too 

slowly over the next 8 days. 

Palm lined sandy beaches between the 

headlands were perfect for camping, and there 

was usually water. Following Terraventure’s 

A gap in the reef 200 metres out, allowed suggested itinerary, which recommended 

us easy passage to the open sea. In a small 

following chop we rafted together, rigged a 

fly/sail with paddles as spars and covered 

15 kms in 2 hours. Someone said and all 

agreed, “This is the life” We caught a few fish 

and Bevan hooked a Spanish mackerel, the 

largest fish caught for the trip. 

In fading light we paddled the last 2 km 

of the day to the sandspit of the Poco Mie 

River where we quickly pitched camp and 

roasted marshmallows to celebrate a good 

chunk out of the trip. Our tired kids lit their first 

experimental coconut roasting fire. Typical for 

all our campsites bar one, there was plenty of 

firewood and coconut husks, for fuel. 

At first light the following morning Cath had 

a brew on the fire. We repacked gear in better 

places while Al scouted for water and Bevan 

‘jury-rigged’ his ‘Pacific DownUnder’ V sail on 

his double. Then in mid 20 degrees we swam 

before paddling. 

Most mornings we were dogged by head 

winds. We found that making an early start 

allowed us a reprieve from the wind. We 

had extended lunches, beachcombed and 

snorkled then we were into the 

headwind again, inside the reef 

coasting centimetres above coral, or 

out in the deep. 

When on day 3 we rounded a 

headland Adele ( 14 ) called, “I’ve 

never been in such large head seas 

before”. Thankfully, due to 

suitable, but not essential, camps, we pitched 

tents almost on someone’s front lawn in the 

Nickel mining community of Quinne. Fresh 

bread from the mine’s shop was a bonus, as was 

chatting to expat New Zealanders. 

My favourite camp was on a narrow neck of 

land where we pitched our tents on a grassy 

glade amongst hibiscus, palms and ficus. It 

was garden-like, a horticultural heaven. Another 

great camp was amongst colourful shacks in 

raked yards under shady trees. This had been 

the holiday community for workers during the 

1980s nickel mining heydays. Now uninhabited 

we gratefully used the tables, chairs, and tapped 

water in a holiday away from the holiday. In 

firelight we sang to a harmonica. 

When not hugging the rugged headlands, 

we had views of steep, nickel-rich hills. For 

years multi-national mining companies have 

been prospecting here and their burn-offs have 

created many sparsely covered hills. 

Round a headland women in ‘mother hubbard’ 

dresses ran to greet us. We were expected! 

Quite daunting really. Eager hands helped to 

drag the boats up, and we were led to the guest 

house. Refreshments were spread on large 

tables decorated with flowers while passionfruit, 

papaya and mandarins were brought on platters 

for the kids. Then, speaking stilted French, 

we enjoyed an evening with Georgette and 

Jon, an elderly Kanak couple, who run a small 

tourist establishment. Dinner, all local produce 

including octopus, was served under the 

a reef further offshore, the 

waves were a large chop, 

rather than ocean swell. 

Low tide about lunch time 

created tricky surf. Once 

Bevan mistimed the approach. 

Dangling diagonally on the 

reef Al grabbed and hauled 

him on. Generally we had to 

float the kayaks across 100 

metres or so of fringing reef, 

stepping carefully between the 

corals. Suitable footwear was 

necessary to avoid dreaded 

coral cuts. 

In pursuit of the phone at 

the tribu of St Roch. 

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Feature 

Georgette Nonke and 

her gift of sugar cane. 

grand thatched roof of the guest house. “ The best part of the whole trip”, 

declared Francesca (13 ). 

The Kanaks are the indigenous people of New Caledonia, and although 

supposedly not a sea-faring race, they certainly treat the reef as a food 

source. They own much of La Cote Oubliee. Often we saw their camps 

and gravesites, and spotted individuals way out on the reef with nets or 

spears. Run-abouts seemed the way to get about. 

On leaving Chez Georgettes, our two fairly normal, but now travel 

stained, NZ families were out to bag a rest day, and an island. 

Menyuru lay a few kilometres away, a low lying area of heavily 

forested paradise. Here we pursued individual activities, 

entertained by lurking hoards of hermit crabs who pounced on 

any scrap of unattended food. Kirk (11) had a hermit crab race 

course – no need for digital entertainment here. 

Every day we saw elusive turtles and occasionally, when 

snorkling, we saw sharks. Often under water there was more 

beauty than in the world above. When the morning was calm 

and the sun was shining kayaking over the shallow inner reef 

revealed beauty almost as well as snorkling. 

Cloud cover, and an opportunity to use a tail wind to Tupeti 

Island, caused us to cut short our 7 th July rest day. At 2 pm 

we abandoned the kids huts and rafts, packed and paddled 

the 8 kms. We camped with a backdrop of dense bush and a 

roaring Rusa stag. Large bats flew into the trees. The 2 metre 

tide, which peaked at 6 pm, left sufficient dry sand for Adele to 

prepare a fire. 

‘Woomph!’ On our last kayaking day a coconut shocked us 

awake. It had fallen10 metres right beside our tent. Any closer 

would have been dangerous! In drizzle we paddled a mangrove 

lined channel to the Tribu of St Roch. It was pouring with rain 

when we found a large picnic shelter which provided perfect 

cover for our tents. 

Exploring, we discovered a very simple but beautiful church, the 

Tribu’s malfunctioning public phone and Rastafarian influence on 

Kanak lifestyle. 

All too soon our kayak trip of the Forgotten Coast was over. It had 

been a privilege to share in our two families’ adventure and experience of 

French and Kanak culture. 

Tarn departing Quinne early Day 3 

Photo Al Rynn.

Right: All happy at trips end. Nora, Bevan, 

Kirk, Cath, Al,Tarn, Francesca, Adele. 

Below: Francesca and the Hermit crabs - 

Menyuru Is - Photos by Al Rynn 

Feature 

Above: Tricot raye sea snake. 

Left: Mother and Daughter heading to Menyuru 

Island - Photos by Al Rynn. 



From Lake to Sea 

- the inaugural Rangiteiki Paddle 

Marathon 

By Jim Robinson 

Forty-two kilometres is a backside-aching distance to 

paddle a kayak. But it’ll be no problem for participants 

in the inaugural Rangitaiki marathon paddle race 

this March: because with several portages along the 

way, there will be plenty of opportunity to loosen the 

posterior. 

The marathon journey will start at Lake Matahina and finish 

at Thornton, near Whakatane in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The 

event is designated a “championship” so many of the country’s 

best long-distance kayak and waka ama paddlers will be vying 

for kudos and prize money. 

But fun is the real key and all levels of paddlers are welcome, 

including those in sea kayaks and plastic sit-ons. The river has 

a good flow but there’s no white water: it’s very user-friendly for 

even the inexperienced - who can take part in a relay. 

The marathon is a highlight of the Rangitaiki River Festival 

– which celebrates the many communities and the long history 

linked together by the Rangitaiki. At 155 km long, the Rangitaiki 

is the fifth longest river in New Zealand. Its source is east of the 

Kaingaroa Forest in the northern Hawke’s Bay. Lake Matahina is 

formed by a hydro-electric dam. 

Kayakers will do a large loop of the bush-edged lake waters, 

then carry their boats down to the base of the stone dam, where 

the waka paddlers will start, for a 33 km paddle down the river 

to Thornton. 

Along the way, a couple more short portages will be thrown in 

for extra dimension. “Portages are a great way for spectators to 

get a good view of the action. And it’s an opportunity for kayakers 

to see how their competition is doing,” enthuses Bill Clark, who 

came up with the idea for the festival and has worked with local 

communities to bring it to reality. But waka paddlers, relax. 

Portages are for kayakers only: you won’t be required to carry 

your craft. 

Racing over, paddlers and spectators alike can then enjoy 

the main event: the Rangitaiki River Festival. Fun activities will 

include a kayak fishing contest, kids racing and a wealth of 

family entertainment, with masses of delicious kai from the fertile 

Rangitaiki plains and sparkling Pacific Ocean. What better reason 

to do the marathon paddle and work up a healthy appetite? 

Entries and information: www.whaktane.com

Josh Neilson running the 

Hardanger River in Norway. 

Photographer - Greg Dashper

As the New Zealand Summer 08/09 comes to an end I’m 

filled with ideas. “How can we do as much kayaking and 

travelling as possible with the limited funds we have?” The 

plan changed about a hundred times as an itinerary was 

patched together. 

The crew committed, and the trip mostly sorted, I began a plan to capture 

our missions on film and share them with the world. New Zealanders are 

renowned for pulling off some epic first descents and are now making 

a name for themselves in the competitive extreme racing circuit. Our 

crew of paddlers are among the top in these fields. This got me thinking, 

the 2009 film would start by following a number of Kiwi kayakers on our 

mission to the Northern hemisphere where first descents were made and 

extreme races were won. The 2009 trip consisted of a bunch of extreme 

racing, mixed with expedition kayaking and to cap it all off some big water 

kayaking on the White Nile. 

The year started with Lou Urwin, Tyler Fox and myself exploring the 

Central and Northern reaches of Quebec in Canada. With a car loaded 

with cameras and gear bulging from the seams, we spent 3 weeks driving 

river to river and running a bunch of ‘sweet’ sections and ticking off a few 

new rivers in the region. The atmosphere was set to change. From being 

in the wilderness of Quebec to the bustling ski town of Vail, Colorado. 

Here we met up with Mike Dawson, Sam Sutton and Bradley Lauder 

who were hot favourites, in our minds, to place highly in the Homestake 

Creek race. 

My racing speeds were far from best, but it was still fun to compete. 

Once I had taken my run, I filmed Mike, Sam and Lou’s runs. Unfortunately 

Lou had a DNF, with a boat break after a collision with a rock. Sam had 

a slower first run but came back in the second run with a course record. 

This was not enough to get ahead of Mike’s consistent runs which took 

him to gold. 

Other events over the weekend saw the Kiwis on the podium 

once again. 

Lou headed back to Canada while Sam, Brad, Mike and I headed out to 

Italy, meeting up with Jared Meehan for Mountain Games in Italy. Due to 

a few travel mishaps, I missed filming the guys on the first Extreme race. 

But I made it in time for the World Teams Extreme Race Championships. 

Sam, Mike and Jared took gold, another success for the crew! 

We parted ways, with Jared heading to Russia, and Mike to Spain 

for slalom commitments. The rest of us headed to Norway for the Voss 

Extreme race and another season of amazing waterfalls! Between runs, 

with camera in hand, I captured the kiwis dominating the rounds with a 

new kiwi face, Mike Abbott taking out the first round with Sam not far 

behind. In the end Sam missed first by just hundredths of a second and 

Mike Abbott took third. 

The racing scene was mostly over, so we went back to river running. 

For some reason one of Norway’s best rivers decided to run for a whole 

week, instead of its usual 2 or 3 days a year! With a pile of racing footage, 

it was a nice change to be behind the lens capturing the guys hucking off 

massive drops and running tight smooth lines! The New Zealand dollar 

was weak against the Norwegian dollar and more time in Norway was 

not looking very promising. There was one more race in 2 weeks, but if I 

stayed, I would be forced to return to NZ immediately after and back into 

the heart of winter! 

A few emails here and there, and a new plan was hatched. With the 

funds I had, it was either 2 weeks in Norway or 3 months in Africa. 

Four days later I was on a plane to Uganda. I contracted Malaria three 

years ago while paddling the Nile in Uganda. Since then, I have been 

making films and showing these throughout New Zealand, raising money 

for a malaria clinic on the banks of the Nile. Previously I had sent the 

money over, but this year I wanted to hand deliver it. While the film has 

focused on the talents of Mike and Sam, their racing and the expeditions 

of Lou and myself, the fundraising is also an important function of the film. 

It’s pretty selfish to go to these amazing places and not give something in 

return. To paddle the Nile every day, while helping out the community and 

raising awareness back home about a cause that is close to my heart, 

is pretty choice! 

Within 3 weeks of of my return, I was back to rock bottom with another 

case of Malaria. Thanks to good friends and help from the clinic close by, 

I was once again treated and back on my feet. To help show the severity 

of this sickness, Bernard Oliver, also from NZ, got behind my camera 

while I shared my experiences. Once I was well again, we set out to 

document the clinic and what they do, as well as capture the raw power 

of the river. 

Another reason to return to the Nile is the dam construction which will 

flood the famous Silverback section. It will be shut down to kayakers 

and rafters by April next year and gone forever. Part of the film set out 

to show what will soon be lost and to find out how it will affect the locals 

and users of the river. 

With my time fast running out in Uganda I changed my flight and stayed 

for another month so I could be there for the last Nile River Festival in 

November. The last month was amazing with trips to the equator to tie 

in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere theme to the film as well as 

filming out in the Murchison Falls National Park where we saw elephants, 

hippos, leopards and lions. 

The last week was the hardest, as I was having my final runs down 

one of the most amazing sections of river I’ve ever paddled and leaving 

all my amazing friends. I rounded the corner into an eddy, looked back 

upstream, having come down the Silverback rapid. It slowly disappeared 

as I floated silently thinking “I am defiantly thankful to be able to do these 

things and sad to see them go.” I will always have the footage from these 

years of film to remind me how lucky I am! 

Now the Northern Hemisphere summer has come to an end. Mike, 

Sam, Lou, myself and the rest of the kayaking nomads from the South 

have made their way back to NZ. Here I will be putting the finishing 

touches to a worldly kayaking film, which follows a bunch of mates from 

their home in the South to the far reaches of the North. 

Now that the edit has begun it was time to get the film a name! The 

film this year is called ‘REALM’ and you can expect to see shows around 

NZ during March and April with the global premiere at Murchison’s Buller 

River Festival! 

Cheers and hope you enjoy it! 

For More information on my travels for the year and for what you can 

expect from the Southern Underground Productions film for 2009 check 

us out at www.whitewater-koa.blogspot.com


Tail winds, food and 

coffee, make for a very 

civilised time. 

by Mandy Gilmour 

When Andy pulled out a 

chocolate gateau from his 

kayak I knew it was going to be 

our kind of trip. I also knew we 

could have packed much more 

food into my kayak. You live and 

learn. The trip to Queen Charlotte 

Sounds for the weekend was the 

first Yakity Yak trip for myself and 

my partner Neil. Some in our party 

of eight would be adding leadership 

training along the way. 

We arrived at Picton around 10.30pm on 

a beautifully calm, mild and starry evening 

for the night paddle to the campsite at 

Kumutoto Bay. Helped along by a tail wind 

we set up camp after midnight slightly further 

round the bay from our planned site. 

Saturday was a lovely sunny morning. 

The duck we thought had pecked Neil awake 

turned out to be the Weka flitting in and out 

of the tents whilst we had a lazy breakfast on 

the beach. 

Neil in the pristine Queen 

Charlotte Sounds 

The author making the 

most of the weather 

Serenity, Marlborough Sounds style-it was 

raining in Wellington during this weekend 

A tail wind again made 

paddling easy and we had 

a leisurely time, taking in the 

seals on the rocks and clouds 

of jelly fish. Andy, fishing for a 

few minutes, reeled in a nice fat 

fish. We stopped off for a picnic 

lunch at Lochmara Lodge and 

indulged in real coffee. 

Very civilised. 

The afternoon produced even 

more perfect weather as we 

explored the coast’s coves and 

headed for the Davis Bay campsite. 

Once we’d pitched our tents right on 

the edge of the beach we relaxed 

in the sun, took in the view and 

generously fed the local sandflies. 


Weakened by all the paddling we 

needed nourishment. We chipped 

in our shared nibbles but the prize 

once again went to Andy with a 

platter brimming with goodies. 

It must be a magic bottomless 

kayak he’s got. I want one. 

The weather on Sunday 

was cloudy with slightly 

stronger winds on the cards 

and we made an earlier 

start to take account of 

conditions. Spookily, the 

wind was in the right 

direction again. We had 

another tail wind for 

most of the way. We 

spent the morning 

paddling round the 

coves and then 

after a dash across 

the shipping lane, 

picnicked at Bob’s 

Bay close to 

Picton. 

The final leg was a short 

paddle back to Picton, arriving just before the 

rain. We certainly had the best of the weather and couldn’t have 

asked for better for our first trip. A kayak is definitely the best way to 

appreciate this beautiful area and the trip has certainly given us a taste 

for more. 


Andy enjoying a morning cuppa 

Tui Excel 

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For information on our complete range and stockist, 

visit www.q-kayaks.co.nz or phone 06 326 8667 



Join Your Local 

The whole family can get involved. Fun in the sun and on the water! 

F U N 

FITNESS 

F R 

I E N D S 

Come and explore our beautiful country’s 

tranquil waterways ... 

...or experience adrenalin filled days on 

our world class rivers 

www.canoean 

CALL NOW TO JO

Yakity Yak Club Today 

Enjoy some fishing in great company. 

All training is provided, just come and have fun! 

The Yakity Yak Kayak Club 

concentrates on the important things 

in life. 

Spending time with a bunch of 

mates, exploring New Zealand’s 

beautiful coastline and waterways. 

What is more important than that? 

We don’t get bogged down with the 

dreaded ‘club committees’. There are 

none. We gather once a month for a 

nibble and a drink, discuss the trips 

we’d like to organize, then just do it. 

Show up and have fun. That’s 

our motto. 

Because we are all different, there 

are differing types of trips available. 

Easy day trips for the ‘not so fit’ and 

multi day expeditions for the more 

adventurous. You are never too old 

for the gentle motion of kayaking. 

Anyone with average fitness 

can paddle. 

So come and join our club. You will 

get a weekend skills course to show 

you paddling techniques and 

safety skills. 

Don’t worry if you don’t own a 

kayak- we have heaps. Once you 

have completed the weekend skills 

course, come along on club trips. We 

can hire you a kayak for these if you 

need. 

There is something on nearly every 

weekend year round. Sometimes we 

go away camping, fishing, or we just 

cruise around the harbour stopping on 

beaches for coffee and chocolate, or 

our legendary club pancakes! 

We’ll even send you the New 

Zealand Kayak Magazine and there 

are loads of in-store benefits for our 

club members. 

So take a look at the back page and 

give your local Canoe & Kayak centre 

a call or better still come and see us. 

We’d love to tell you more and get 

you hooked on the wonderful sport 

of kayaking and probably the best 

kayak club in the world! 

dkayak.co.nz 

IN 0508 KAYAKNZ 

Photo by Mike Dawson 

The boys check out the rapids.

Technical Multisport 

Am I insured? 

By Ruth E. Henderson 

Maybe, maybe not...it depends… Do not presume and then All the companies who participated stated in one way or another – 

be disappointed when pay out is declined. It pays to ask that we, the insured must take care, and that insurance cover is for 

sudden and accidental (unexpected, unintended, unforeseen) loss or 

questions, curly questions at the time of taking out a policy 

damage. 

or before glibly thinking your new pride and joy is covered 

Aaron Mortimer of Mariner Marine Insurance said “The insurer 

under your household insurance policy. 

must always act as if they are uninsured” and in the scenario of the 

It pays to be honest. Your insurer needs to know if you are an ‘ordinary’ kayak being left overnight on the roofrack at the boat ramp he said the 

kayaker, or are planning on doing a Paul Caffyn or Freya Hoffmeister and test would be along the lines of “was the insured taking all possible 

circumnavigating something bigger than Great Barrier Island, or spending care to minimise or avoid a loss? Would they leave the boat like that 

your weekends hurtling down the Huka Falls one weekend and the Aratiatia if they were not insured?” He did go on to say that in extenuating 

rapids the next like Josh Neilson and friends, or competing alongside Sam circumstances such as if the insured had an injury kayaking and was 

Goodall in the Speight’s Coast to Coast. The type of kayaking you do may taken to hospital overnight and was not able to organise alternative 

affect your premium or excess or eligibility for cover. And sometimes, so storage, then they would take a more benevolent approach to a kayak 

does your “profile.” 

stolen in that situation. 

To get a feel for what would be covered I chose five different craft 

Chris O’Connor from Ansvar made the point that “The client must 

(kevlar Southern Skua, plastic Shearwater, Cobra Fish ‘n Dive, Blisstick take precautions. Must take enough care so that a reasonable person 

Mystic mini, Ruahine Swallow) that a “fifty year old female with a 

would say that you have taken reasonable care.” 

mortgage and five years kayaking experience” could conceivably own To answer the question “Am I insured?” it does ‘depend’. It depends 

and posed a number of questions to eight different companies. These on you, and the precautions you take and the company you select. 

included: 

Am I insured if my kayak; 

1. Is on my roof rack? 

2. Flies away/ comes off my roof rack (not tied down properly, 

or roof rack faulty)? 

3. Is sheared off as I enter an underground car park? 

4. Is stolen, whilst in a Supermarket for one hour, from the 

car park? 

5. Is stored at my residence, and stolen from the carport within 

a fenced section? 

6. Is stored at my bach, and stolen from locked storage 

beneath? 

7. Is on the beach, while I am sleeping after lunch and the 

incoming tide takes the kayak. 

8. Is smashed on rocks or against obstacle (e.g. channel 

marker) while training or in normal use. 

9. Is smashed whilst on expedition, racing, on white water 

Grade 3 rapids or surfing? 

And, “Are my fitted accessories on my insured kayak covered 

too? e.g. Fitted compass, fish finder, flag, rod holders, hatches, 

foot pump?” 

“What about the non- fitted ones in my insured kayak? e.g. dry bags, 

hand pump, paddle float.” 

Know the height of 

your vehicle and load. 


Duct Tape can save the day, 

if not the boat. 

Technical 

Be insurance –wise: 

ßß 

When storing a kayak outside a locked garage, 

ßß 

choose a place which is not visible to the ‘man on the 

street’. Store your boat ‘around the back’ or under the 

house. 

Invest in some lockable tie downs and secure these to 

ßß 

your racks and boat. Use lockable tie downs to secure 

your boat to your roof rack. See your Roof Rack 

Centre to check that your roof rack and cradles are in 

good repair and correctly fitted. 

Use bow and stern ropes so that your kayak has 

ßß 

less chance of flying if your roof rack does fail. Greg 

Haverkort of Thule NZ commented “Since we have 

packaged our Quickdraw bow & stern lines with our 

874 kayak cradles, claims for lost boats from roof 

racks have fallen to zero.” 

To help with gear retrieval identify it. Put your name 

ßß 

and phone number on or in your boat, dry bags etc. If 

the waterproof pen marks wear off in the cockpit, stick 

some duct tape on the under side of your hatches and 

write on that. 

Beware of ‘loose canons’ in your hatches. Items 

such as full 2 ltr water bottles or axles of trolleys can 

puncture your boat in a surf landing. 

Visit 

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/insurance 

for a table of questions and answers about 

kayak insurance. 

Sometimes you just gotta land 

whether your kayak likes it or not! 



Travel 

Kayaking Tonga 2009 

By Chris Shirley 

'Apiteniko Kalavi & Malia Veamatahau 

(Front), do it Islander style... 

Kayaking has become the love of our lives. Each year the two 

of us paddle/camp many 100’s of miles along the coast where 

we live and on the lakes in the Central North Island during the 

summer holidays. For us it is all about doing the things we love 

together with our family and friends. 

We are always looking for new adventures and this year Tonga was the 

place we could afford. We had been there many times before as ocean 

sailors, but never as kayakers. This proved to be one of the m o s t 

fantastic paddling places we have been to. 

Before the trip we researched the area 

and found only one business 

which provided 

k a y a k s , 

Tim Day, owner of Fatai Kayak 

Adventures, leads the way. 

and 

t h e y 

were sit 

o n Cobras. Julie and I 

paddle 

the older single Puffins and 

have a QK Dusky Bay Classic Double for our expeditions. We 

have never really liked the sit-on-tops, but we were certainly in for 

a surprise. The Cobras were excellent. They tracked well, were 

very stable and are ideal for the hot conditions that you get in the 

tropics. 

On our kayaking days, we were met by Tim and Vila of Fatai 

Adventures. They are a young couple who live right beside the 

lagoon with their extended family. We had been given an invitation 

to teach them what we knew about kayaking in return for the use of 

the Cobras. 

Once on our kayaks, we paddled into the wind and along the 

sheltered lee shore of the lagoon. The tide was nearly full and the 

places we could go with the kayaks were amazing. We were able 

to paddle around small islands, right up close to villages, people 

fishing, birds, fish and sea life in an unspoilt, clean and beautiful 

environment. We really appreciated that it was so quiet. No engines, 

just the sound of our paddles. 

Tim and Vila offer many kayaking options such as day trips to the 

inshore islands with all food supplied, but the experienced kayaker 

can also choose from the small uninhabited islands around the 

main island of Tongatapu. They are easily reached and you have 

them completely to yourself. 

Julie and I spent a lot of time teaching Tim and Vila about 

wind, tides, rescue/paddle techniques, VHF, and how to 

weather proof this type of business. The trade winds certainly 

have a huge bearing on where and how you would kayak 

and great care is needed with the strong tides and currents 

around the island. Once away from the main island you are in the 

ocean and the seas can be huge. 

You certainly would not want to be in fading light, an offshore 

current and a strong trade wind. 


Travel 

Pockets now available 

on Multisport decks 

Editors Note: A great range of 

boats! The photo featured is 

European. In NZ a buoyancy aid 

must be worn. 

The Rasdex Multisporter PFD has 

had another successful Speight’s 

Coast to Coast, taking a win with 

Gordon Walker. A good number 

of the other top 10 finishers in 

all classes also chose it. Why? 

Because it is the most complete 

multisport PFD on the market: 

quick side entry, light 

weight, plenty of 

pockets, comes with 

bladder and routing 

for 3 tubes via our innovative 

block system. Why compromise 

your race? Use what the winners use! 

RRP $289.95 

The new Hydra PFD has been tested to NZS 5823:2005. It 

is also approved for night time use. Available in high viz 

yellow (see Auckland harbour bylaws) and red, and in 2 

sizes. Features large front pocket and key clip, plus hidden 

side pockets which allow extra foam to be fitted 

so it can be used for canoe polo. 

RRP $149.95 

Holonga Lagoon with Moungatapu 

Island in the background. 

In the 2010 July School Holidays we are going back to Tonga with a 

group of paddling explorers. 

If you would like a budget holiday, living in very basic fale’s, eating 

heaps of local food, having a wonderful time with the locals and 

exploring the small coastal islands, please contact us .This invitation is 

open to anyone who would like to come. 

Julie and I live in Maraetai, right above the beach. There is excellent 

parking for kayakers, on a reserve right next to us, and an easy launch 

spot beside that. 

We welcome kayakers, so please do call in anytime and share your 

adventures with us. 

Chris and Julie Shirley 09 5365106 chris@nzoe.co.nz 




KIWI SUCCESS AT 

By Aaron Osbourne 

The boys at Snobbs creek water fall 

Aaron Osbourne 

Andrew Robinson and Bryden Nicholas on their 

way to winning the Southern Cup Series 



AUSSIE SLALOM NATIONALS 

On the 28th December 2009, in blazing weather, the New 

Zealand Junior Development Team reached the small town of 

Eildon, Lake Eildon, with its many houseboats, and Snobbs 

Waterfall, 2 hours north of Melbourne. To cope with the 

shocking 40 degree heat we frequently needed ice, frozen 

drinks, to steal the fan, and in my case to stand in the fridge! 

But we settled into team life; between training, enjoying 

movies, cards, swimming and cook offs. A storm on New 

Year’s Eve brought 48 mm of rain in one hour and some relief 

from the heat! 

Amongst over 190 athletes from all over Australia the Kiwis did well in 

the Australian Secondary Schools Championships, races three and four 

of the Southern Cup and then the Australian National Championships. 

New Zealand paddlers dominated all age groups in the schools 

competition for K1 men with young guns Andre Sperling winning the U14 

K1 and Finn Butcher 1st in U14C1. Shaun Travers paddled to victory 

taking the Southern Cup in the U23C1, while his sister Kelly won the 

women’s U16 K1 Southern Cup. 

Kiwi’s Ben Gibb & Bradyn Church arrived earlier in the week to win the 

Australian Schools title. Bryden Nicholas and Andrew Robinson took out 

the Southern Cup Series. Gibb and Church then produced some great 

paddling to win the Under 23 C2 class at nationals. I had success as well, 

winning the Southern Cup Open Mens title and took silver in the Open 

division at the Australian Nationals. 

The New Zealand team did exceptionally well in the Australian Open 

Nationals picking up a bunch of medals and wining most team events we 

entered. In a outstanding performance Callum Gibb beat all the Aussie 

juniors (under 18) to the podium’s number one spot. Team mate Jane 

Nicholas won the U18 K1 women’s the day after she won the overall 

under 23 category in the Southern Cup. 

Racing extremely well in individual and team events, we won close to 

80 medals making the tour one of the most successful for New Zealand’s 

young canoe slalom paddlers. Canoe Slalom New Zealand is in good 

shape for the future and everyone was a great ambassador. 

Full podium results can be found at www.canoe.org.au. 

For more information about canoe slalom go towww.slalomnz.org.nz 

or follow me at www.aaronosborne.co.nz 

Ian Mercer Feeding out lollies 

after hard training Session 

Southern cup winners 

The team and our medals! 



Speight’s 

Coast to Coast 

2010 

By James Kuegler 

The 2010 Speight’s Coast to Coast will certainly be 

remembered, like 1992 and 2004, for extremes in weather and 

course changes. Under difficult circumstances, with confusion 

and 11 th hour course changes, competitors and officials still 

managed to produce a competitive and exciting race. 

In scorching sunshine on Friday 12 th February the two day competitors 

raced on bikes and foot from Kumara, half way across the South Island to 

their day’s end at Klondyke Corner. Rangiora’s Rhys John recorded the 

fastest time for the Mountain Run over Goat Pass. 

In direct contrast, the metservice forecasted 150 mm of rain at rates of 

up to 45 mm/hr, with 70 kph wind gusting to 130 kph, between midnight 

and 9 am on Saturday morning. As a result, race director Robin Judkins 

was forced to move to plan B. The competitors in the Speight’s World 

Multisport Championship, Longest Day competition would ride 55 km as 

normal from Kumara Junction to Aickens Corner. Then they’d run up the 

steep Otira Viaduct State Highway 73 to Klondyke Corner instead of the 

usual 33 km Mountain run over Goat Pass. From Klondyke the Longest 

Day and Two Day competitors would have a gruelling 140 km cycle over 

Porters Pass, via Waddington and along Old West Coast Road to North 

Hagley Park in Christchurch before a revised relatively short 20 km kayak 

down the rapidless and recreationally busy Avon River to Sumner. 

Talented duathlete Simon Kristiansen had a four minute lead at 

Klondyke Corner. Defending champion Gordon Walker, and 2008 Two 

Day winner Dougal Allan then chased down Kristiansen in a partnership 

that lasted all the way to transition from bike to kayak at Hagley Park. 

Walker made the comment “It wouldn’t have made sense to leave each 

other”. By staying together, they shared the work, and built a solid 

advantage over the chasing competitors. 

The defending champion’s superior horse-power quickly showed 

through in the kayak, as the pair battled the weedy and shallow Avon 

river, as well as negotiating their way through and around the Two Day 

competitors and Punts that were also occupying the river. 

Walker crossed the line in 9:43 to claim his third Speight’s Coast to 

Coast victory. Dougal Allan claimed second exactly five minutes behind, 

with Cantabrian 

Jacob Roberts third. 

In the women’s 

race Elina Ussher 

shook off her Coast 

to Coast hoodoo. 

She led from the 

start, winning her 

first Speight’s Coast 

to Coast over thirty 

minutes ahead of 

Louise Mark and 

112 Milan Talley and 02 Emily Miazga 

in the One Day event. 

Tony Le Sueur powers down the Avon

Sophie Hart. 

Adam Milne, James Kuegler, 

and JJ Wilson recorded the three 

fastest individual times for the 140 

km cycle to overtake Rhys John’s 

first day lead. They finished first, 

second and third in the Two Day 

event. Joanna Williams won the 

women’s two day individual title 

ahead of Amy Brazier and Helen 

Chittenden. 

The Christchurch and Palmerston 

North pair, Luke Vaughan and 

Peter O’Sullivan, held on to their 

day one lead and won theTwo Day 

teams race. Fleur Pawsey and Sia 

Svendsen were dominant in the 

women’s Two Day teams. 

Cameron Durno in the One Day 

Gordon Walker crosses 

the finish line. 

0380 Peter Fullerton-Smith and 

0576 Nigel Lowry competing in the 

Two Day Individuals

Technical 

Beacons of Hope 

Mosgiel hunter John Adams knows better than anyone the 

value of carrying a personal locator beacon (or PLB) when 

going bush – the device saved his life. 

John was hunting alone in the Nitz Creek area of Fiordland in April 

2008 when he slipped and fell, landing chest-first onto a log, cracking 

several ribs and puncturing a lung. 

“Initially I thought things weren’t too bad, and with a spell and a drink, 

I would be okay, but I had severe pain in the left side of my chest and 

ribs. After a spell of 30 minutes, I tried to put my pack on and descend 

to the valley floor…it was at that stage I started having breathing 

problems and also blood in my urine, and realised for the first time that I 

was in serious trouble.” 

Unbeknown to John, his lungs had begun filling with blood from the 

injury, which if left untreated, would be fatal. 

“Even though it was a lovely warm day, my body was beginning to 

shiver and shake, and breathing was becoming increasingly difficult. I 

knew my condition was fast deteriorating.” 

Fortunately for John, he was carrying a 406 MHz personal locator 

beacon (PLB) – a recent gift from his daughters. 

Thanks to the PLB being recently registered with the Rescue 

Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) – who detect and respond 

to all New Zealand 406 MHz emergency beacon alerts – rescuers 

were able to call the emergency contact numbers provided and confirm 

“Even though it was a lovely warm day, I 

knew my condition was fast deteriorating.” 

is a hired beacon, the hire company should have registered all their 

beacons, and you just leave your details with the company for the 

particular trip you are doing,” Nigel says. 

“Once you have your beacon, it’s also important to know how to 

activate it in an emergency and also understand that it does have some 

limitations.” 

“These limitations mean that while activating your beacon will initiate 

a rescue response, it won’t necessarily result in an ‘immediate’ rescue, 

John is one of many people whose lives have 

been saved thanks to carrying the beacons. 

as it takes time for the beacon’s signal to be confirmed to an accurate 

position, for other checks to be made, and for rescue resources to be 

mobilised and dispatched. Factors such as the terrain, beacon type 

and satellite passes can affect the beacon’s performance and the time 

taken to receive and then respond to the distress alert. In addition it 

may be very challenging or even impossible to mount a rescue attempt 

immediately at night or in very poor weather.” 

“While every effort is made to respond to every beacon alert as 

quickly as possible, people need to be realistic about response times 

and be adequately prepared to be able to survive on their own until 

such time as help can reach them. In some cases, this may take 24 

John’s details and location, before launching a rescue mission. 

“When I heard the noise of the (rescue) chopper coming up the valley, 

and hovering directly above me, it’s a feeling I will never forget,” 

John says. 

In hospital it was revealed he had three broken ribs and a badly 

punctured lung. He was operated on immediately, and his condition 

successfully stabilised. 

“The surgeon told me how lucky I was…that I would have died in the 

next 24 hours without treatment.” 

RCCNZ’s Group Manager, Nigel Clifford, says John is one of many 

people whose lives have been saved thanks to carrying the beacons. 

“As John’s experience shows, carrying a beacon can make all the 

difference between life and death in an emergency. Although beacons 

vary in price from about $700 to $1,500, they are still a pretty cheap 

form of life insurance.” 

“However, if you’re going into the bush and cannot afford a beacon, 

don’t worry, as many Department of Conservation visitor centres and 

tramping and alpine clubs have beacons available for hire at low cost,” 

Nigel says. 

“Whether you hire or buy your beacon, it is critically important that 

it is registered with RCCNZ. This service is confidential and free, and 

provides us with important contact details that allow us to get in touch 

with you or your nominated emergency contact person if the beacon is 

activated. This not only greatly assists in the response during a genuine 

emergency, it can also save us from launching an unnecessary and 

potentially costly and time-consuming search if the beacon is set off by 

accident.” 

“If it is your own beacon, then you need to do the registration. If it 

TAKING THE SEARCH OUT 

OF SEARCH AND RESCUE 

GPS positioning 

406 MGHz 

121.5 MGHz 

Homing signal 

SOS strobe 

Waterproof 

down to 

10 metres 

Floats! 

Only $849 

from your local outdoor 

equipment supplier 

Your position is transmitted to the Rescue Co-ordination Centre within a 

few minutes and the search area is narrowed down to 30 sq metres. 

Peace of mind for loved ones and so small it fits in a pocket! 

Distributed by Bright Ideas ELB Ltd 

Ph: 09 366 6867 www.brightideas.co.nz 

28 ISSUE FIFTY Four • 2 0 1 0

Technical 

hours or even longer.” 

“The accuracy of the beacon, however, can be improved if people 

buy a model that is fitted with GPS, which provides rescuers with more 

accurate positional data when the beacon is activated.” 

Nigel says “While RCCNZ encourages those going into the great 

outdoors to always carry a beacon, this should be in addition to a 

range of other safety precautions, such as telling someone where you 

are going and what time you are expected to be back – making sure 

you have enough food and water and the appropriate clothing and 

equipment to survive in the outdoors.” 

RCCNZ provides a professional search and rescue service 24/7. 

Each year they respond to around 1,200 incidents, over half of which 

involve an activated distress beacon. 

More information on emergency beacons is available from: 

www.beacons.org.nz or by contacting RCCNZ on freephone 

0800 406 111 or 0508 406 111. 

Although this article is on a situation 

that arose in the mountains, a simple 

lesson can be learned. 

If you want to be rescued as quickly as 

possible, carry a distress beacon. 

As with all electronics, prices have fallen 

as new technology has come online. Cheap 

insurance considering batteries normally 

last 5 years before requiring replacement. 

Articles kindly supplied by Maritime New 

Zealand 

- Ed. 

Disposing of old beacons 

Old EPIRB’s need to be correctly disposed of in case they 

accidentally activate and trigger a false alarm. Active beacons have 

been found at the bottom of rubbish tips, triggering expensive and 

unnecessary search operations. There is also the risk that someone 

may think one of the old 121.5MHz EPIRB’s is a useful safety device. 

It is also important to the environment that beacons are disposed of 

correctly. The batteries are normally toxic and must be disposed of in 

accordance with the relevant regulations. Please take the batteries out 

before disposing of an old beacon or return it to your beacon retailer. 

If you sell or dispose of a registered 406 MHz beacon, please let 

RCCNZ know by phoning 0800 406 111. 

Discover the World with... 

THE WORLD’S QUIETEST ROOF RACK 

Introducing Prorack’s Whispbar TM . 

The most innovative, technically 

advanced roof rack system that 

will radically reduce drag and fuel 

consumption. Now that’s brilliant 

Kiwi ingenuity! 

Now available from your local 

Canoe and Kayak store. 

Visit www.prorack.co.nz to see it on your car 



Fishing 

Kayak Fishing 

By Andy Doncaster 

Holiday Style... 

All the best ideas are never planned and this was definitely 

the case with our summer holiday. Having a good yarn with 

some mates around the BBQ, talk always revolves around 

our adventures kayak fishing. Then the inevitable happened. 

Suddenly we were all going away together for our December 

holidays and it was agreed Tauranga Bay was the go. Booking 

with the Tauranga Bay Holiday Park was easy but packing my 

fishing gear even easier - my gear is ALWAYS packed ready 

for the next trip. 

A few short weeks later a rainy Auckland was in our rear-view mirror 

as we headed to the far north for a week of kayak fishing, 

oh and some time with the wife 

and kids of 

c o u r s e . 

Our first 

m o r n i n g 

was clear 

but crisp 

so out came 

my trusty 

Sharkskins 

and by 5.30 

am we were at 

the water edge 

being greeted 

by a wide 

open ocean. 

S t e v e n s o n 

Island was off 

in the distance, 

a slight swell 

running and the 

predicted offshore 

breeze. In this 

region the offshore 

breeze is common 

until about 9am then 

it normally swings to 

an onshore making 

the trip home a bit easier, yes it’s a kayak fisho’s paradise. On 

the water I immediately kept my eye on the sounder to find at just 500 m 

off the shore the area was teeming with fish. One of the guys decided to 

head out further but my mate and I turned round and paddled about 200 

metres back in and set the drift anchor 

in order to drift back over the spot where 

we had seen the activity. 

Drifting back I got my line in the water, 

gave it about 40 seconds for the soft bait 

to get to the bottom in around 15 metres 

of water then bam! First fish resulted in 

about a 35 cm snapper brought to the surface, in this area this is a small 

fish so these ones we put back. Every cast after that resulted in the same 

success as well as kahawai we caught for live bait because we were 

planning some kingfish action. Next I landed a 14 pound porae, which I 

have formally nicknamed the rubber lips fish, and a few casts later ended 

in me losing some tackle to a kingfish that reefed me. All in all a great 

Andy’s best ever! 

Boaties were all whinging about 

how slow the fishing was. Kayakers 

on the other hand were cleaning up. 

start to a week’s fishing, boy oh boy it had only been about an hour. What 

a welcome to Tauranga Bay! 

Day two arrived with the same great weather and by 6.30 am were 

we heading for Stevensons Island’s hotspots. Not long after arrival we 

were again into the fish this time we however had managed to find the 

nursery with not much over the 30 cm mark. Moving to another local 

hotspot about 2.5 kms further around the point of the island we were 

introduced to the full brunt of the swell running and fairly soon some of 

the guys were feeling a bit ill. But fish we did and were rewarded with 

a nice catch. That night I whipped up a batch of my world 

famous (in our 

house at least) fish 

fingers and the kids 

devoured them in 

about 10 minutes 

flat, the big kids 

only getting some 

if you could fight 

hard enough for 

them. 

Day three 

saw us on 

the water 

bright and 

early again 

h e a d i n g 

for some 

b r o k e n 

islands just 

north of 

the bay 

about an 

hour and 

a half of 

p a d d l e 

a w a y . 

We found some 

good ground but to no avail we caught a 

whole bunch of nothing. I tried every trick in the book including 

fishing some standing waves forming over a concealed reef but still 

nothing. Heading home about 3.5 km’s offshore luck at last. I landed a 

couple of good ones including a 10 pounder. However there is sometimes 

a price as half way through the fight the fish took about 4 metres of my 

precious 6 pound braid with it, but like they say just stick with it and you 

have a chance. About 7 minutes later I had the fish onboard and we at 

least had a feed for the night. 

Apart for one day of bad weather the 

rest of the time was much the same with 

the boaties not liking us kayak fisho’s at all. 

All week the boaties were heading back 

in with minimal fish and whinging about 

how slow the fishing was. Kayakers on the other hand were cleaning up 

with most of the guys catching personal bests and beating all previous 

records held within the clan. All in all the trip was a great success and I 

will be going back there again, many times. 


Trans Taupo Under New Direction for Year 3 

News 

Kiwi Association of Sea 

Kayakers N.Z. Inc. 

(KASK) 

KASK is a network of sea kayakers 

throughout New Zealand 

Familiar Faces - Pete & Bronnie van Lith competing last year. 

The country’s biggest open water reduce to encourage more Waka ama boats 

paddle race – the ‘ Trans Taupo’, taking involved, including the W6. 

The full course is 44 km and is a true 

place 20 March on Lake Taupo now 

challenge for even the strongest paddlers, 

has new local owners. Nick Reader 

so there are shorter options available 

from Epic Events Ltd has taken over 

including a team relay with two legs of 25 km 

the event created by Neil Gellatly of and 19 km. 

Dare2Sweat events. 

To get more kids involved in this fantastic 

The iconic water sports event across sport a new 5 km race has been created from 

Australasia’s largest fresh water lake has Wharewaka Point to the finish line at the Yacht 

attracted top quality fields of kayakers and club. 

rowers since 2008. Categories include Surf 

On line entries are now open at 

Skis, Sea Kayaks, Waka ama and Ocean www.epicevents.co.nz/page/52-Trans-Taupo 

Rowers. Competitors race the length of the 

For more info, please see 

lake with the wind at their backs. 

www.epicevents.co.nz 

The fees for multi person craft have been 

or e mail nick@epicevents.co.nz 

KASK publishes a 200 page 

sea kayaking handbook which 

is free to new members: the 

handbook contains all you 

need to know about sea 

kayaking: techniques and 

skills, resources, equipment, 

places to go etc. 

KASK publishes a bi-monthly newsletter 

containing trip reports, events, book reviews, 

technique/equipment reviews and a ‘bugger’ 

file. KASK holds national sea kayaking forums. 

Website: 

www.kask.co.nz 

Annual subscription is $35.00. 

Kask 

PO Box 23, Runanga 7841, 

West Coast 



Remote Camping 

By Karen Knowles 

Making the most of the 

shade at Fantail Bay 

The traditional Kiwi campground has 

certainly had a makeover in the past 

decade. Facilities border on 5-star luxury. 

Splendid for some, but what if you prefer 

to camp where rules are not plastered on 

every wall, the loudest noise is a tui’s 

call and from time to time there’s a waft 

from the long drop? Happily for you NZ 

has plenty of remote camping grounds, 

many offering fantastic kayaking. 

The Department of Conservation has over 

250 campsites with vehicle access , many 

more with only water access. In addition 

both regional and district councils administer 

remote, basic camps throughout the country. 

From the quirky flax labyrinth of Curio Bay 

Campground to Spirits Bay in Northland you 

can find your own, unique piece of paradise. 

A great way for kayakers to enjoy remote 

camping is to string together a number of 

campsites. Packing up each day can be a drag 

but the scenery and paddling in isolated and 

far flung places is reward enough. Amongst 

places which combine basic campgrounds with 

fantastic paddling are Lake Waikaremoana, 

Lake Tarawera, Marlborough Sounds, the 

Hauraki Gulf Islands. the Coromandel 

Peninsula and Great Barrier Island. 

Yakity Yak member Natasha Romoff has 

paddled Coromandel’s stunning coastline and 

has this to say about its campgrounds and 

paddling. 

Stony Bay makes a great base providing 

access to the top end of the Coromandel 

Peninsula and some amazing paddling. It’s 

very easy to paddle around to Fletchers Bay 

for a lunch stop and a swim and even go 

onto Port Jackson before returning to Stony 

Bay. Alternatively, head south down past 

Sandy Bay to Waikawau Bay. The coastline is 

wonderful, but best done in a south westerly 

flow as it is exposed to easterly swells. 

Stony Bay is also good for non-paddling 

family members because of the hiking, 

mountain biking and snorkeling options right 

there. Being at the end of a long and winding 

gravel road means not many people go there 

so it is not going to be crowded. Also there 

is no slipway for launching boats except the 

smallest tinnie. 

Campsite facilities very suited to paddlers 

include a fresh water stream with pools large 

enough to soak in after a paddle. You, your 

salty gear and even your boat can be wheeled 

in at the end of the weekend! What better 

place for sundowners at the end of a long 

day’s paddle? 

It’s not a big drive to Waikawau Beach 

campsite and its great white sandy beach with 

surf for body surfing or a refreshing swim on 

the way home. But the campsite takes up to 

Orama on Great Barrier 

The Green, Great Barrier

Stony Bay at rush hour... 

1200 people in the season. 

Fantail Bay [East of Port Jackson] has a 

small and friendly campsite, but it’s divided 

from the water by the main road north to Port 

Jackson and Fletchers Bay so it wouldn’t be 

good for kids. 

The best use for Fletchers Bay is as a jump 

off point to crossing the Firth of Thames to 

Waiheke Island. 

Together with Waikawau, Stony Bay, 

Fletchers Bay, and Port Jackson, Fantail links 

together DOC campsites that can be used to 

paddle from the east side of the Coromandel 

all the way across to the big smoke of 

Auckland. 

Great Barrier can be circumnavigated 

using basic campsites conveniently scattered 

around the island’s coast. But plan carefully 

to allow for changes in weather. Paddlers can 

wheel kayaks onto the ferry and start paddling 

from Tryphena or Port Fitzroy. 

If you don’t fancy an entire circumnavigation 

take a vehicle across on the ferry and base 

yourself at Harataonga to explore the eastern 

coastline and Arid Island (Rakitu Island). On 

the western coast most campsites are within 

cooee of civilization. The small, secluded, 

very pretty Green Campsite, with nearby 

hot springs and camping amongst the 

pohutukawas, is an exception. This is another 

ideal isolated campground for a base or a 

night on a kayak trail. 

To plan a kayak trail using basic and 

isolated campsites look at the following 

websites. 

www.doc.govt.nz www.arc.govt.nz 

Don’t forget to check what facilities are 

available so you are prepared. And my advice: 

pack a small bottle of very strong smelling 

toilet cleaner. A waft of long drop may be part 

of the adventure but a stench can make you 

long for that 5 star holiday resort you just 

paddled past. 

Photos supplied by Natasha Romonoff 

and Julie Reynolds 

Bathing kayak and kayaker Stony Bay 

Approaching Fletchers Bay

Technical 

Rock snot not the only pest to look out 

for this summer 

The dreaded didymo is not the only pest to watch out for 

in the waterways this summer. 

Other freshwater nasties are out there, and everyone in a kayak or 

canoe is a vital part in the fight against pests like oxygen weed, hornwort, 

koi carp and mosquito fish. 

Didymo, known as rock snot, has still not been 

detected in the North Island, but these other 

Hornwort 

pests affect many of our waterways and can be 

devastating to freshwater ecosystems. 

Like didymo, aquatic pest plants are 

hitchhikers. They can be easily spread 

when plant fragments are carried on kayaks 

and canoes, trailers and other equipment. 

Pest fish can also be spread when juvenile 

fish or fish eggs are carried on unwashed gear. 

As well as spoiling the look of our lakes and rivers, 

freshwater pests can crowd out native species, 

downgrade water quality, and block irrigation and 

drainage systems. They can also limit access to 

waterways for recreation. 

It is simple to help stop their spread 

and if people Check, Clean, Dry between 

waterways, they will help prevent the spread 

of didymo and other pests and keep our 

waterways clean. 

An easy way to clean a kayak or canoe is to scrub 

the exterior, then fill it with biodegradable detergent 

and water to wash the inside. Small items and gear 

can be cleaned in this solution as well. 

If you can’t wash your gear, you can leave it to 

dry completely for 48 hours, or restrict your use to a 

single waterway. 

The Check, Clean, Dry campaign is an initiative 

introduced and funded by MAF Biosecurity New 

Zealand to work with the community to prevent 

the incursion and spread of didymo and other freshwater pests that can 

damage New Zealand’s waterways. 

For more information on the Check Clean Dry campaign visit 

www.biosecurity.govt.nz 

Didymo 

Alligator weed 


Join Us For A Summer Of Fun. 

Taupo Maori Carvings 

Waikato River Discovery 

White Water Paddling 

Taupo Adventure Tours 

Half day guided trip to the rock carvings, 

Lake Taupo... only accessible by boat. 

A leisurely paddle of about 3 km to the rock 

carvings. The largest is over 10 m high and 

from below in a kayak it is imposing. 

$85 per person (bookings essential). 

Phone 0800 KAYAKN for details. 

2 hour guided kayak trip. Experience the 

magnificent upper reaches of the mighty 

Waikato River - soak in the geothermal 

hotsprings - take in the stunning 

environment... a perfect trip for all the family... 

Need some excitement? Take a kayak 

down a wicked Grade 2 river run... this is 

a whole day of thrills and fantastic scenery 

down some of New Zealand’s best rivers. 

We can organize specialized kayak tours 

to suit any budget. 

From helicopter access, white water 

paddling to extended cruises aboard a 

mother ship. 

Give us a call and we will give you a 

memory of a lifetime. 

Adult $45, Children $25 

Special group and family rates. 

Call 0800 KAYAKN for details. Call 0508 529 256 for details. Phone 0800 KAYAKN for details. 

Canoe Polo 

Waitara River Tours 

Mokau River 

Sugar Loaf Island 

A great game for young and old. 

A fast, furious and fun way to improve 

your skills. 

There’s a league to suit you. 

Contact your local Canoe & Kayak Centre 

for more information. 

Call 0508 529 256 for details. 

For those who are slightly more adventurous 

at heart, this is a scenic trip with the 

excitement of Grade 2 rapids. Midway down, 

we paddle under the historic Betran Road 

Bridge where we will stop for a snack. 

Allow 2 hours paddle only. 

Priced at $70. 

Phone: 06 769 5506 

Enjoy this beautiful scenic river which 

winds through some of New Zealand’s 

lushest vegetation. Camping overnight 

and exploring some of New Zealand’s 

pioneering history. A true Kiwi experience. 

Two day trip $250.00 

One day $80.00 

Phone 06 769 5506 

From Ngamutu Beach harbour we head out 

to the open sea to Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf 

Island Marine Reserve. View the scenic & 

rugged Taranaki coastline as we draw closer 

to the Sugar Loaf Islands. Enjoy the seal 

colony and experience the thrill of close up 

views of these fascinating marine mammals. 

Allow 3 hours subject to weather. 

$70.00 per person. Phone 06 769 5506 

Glow Worm Kayak Tour 

River Tours 

Kayak Hire 

NZKI 

Join us for a picturesque paddle on Lake 

McLaren to view glow worms by night 

or beautiful waterfalls by day. This trip 

takes about 1.5-2hours and is suitable for 

paddlers with no experience. All gear, hot 

drinks and nibbles are supplied. 

Price $75 per person. 

Phone Canoe & Kayak BOP for bookings 

07 574 7415 

Exploring beautiful estuaries. 

Enjoy a scenic trip with wildlife and 

wonderful views. 

Have some paddling fun on the beach or 

let us run a tour for you and your friends 

and explore beautiful areas. 

New Zealand Kayaking Instructors 

Award Scheme 

A great progressive way to become a 

kayaking instructor or guide. 

Phone Canoe & Kayak 


on 0508 529 256 for details on 0508 529 256 for details 

Phone 0508 529256 

Paddle to the Pub Twilight Tours Customized Tours 

Join the Yakity Yak Club 

Kayaking to a local pub is a unique way 

of spending an evening, bringing your 

group of friends together by completing 

a fun activity before dinner and making a 

memorable experience. 


on 0508 529 256 for details 

Departs from one of your local beautiful 

beaches. Enjoy the scenic trip with the sun 

setting as you paddle along the coastline. 


on 0508 529 256 for details 

• Work Functions • Schools 

• Clubs • Tourist groups 

Whether it’s an afternoon amble, a 

full day’s frolic or a wicked weekend 

adventure we can take you there. 

If there’s somewhere you’d like to paddle 

we can provide you with experienced 

guides, local knowledge, safe up to date 

equipment and a lot of fun. 

Contact your local store 

on 0508 529 256 

We’d love to tell you more and get 

you hooked on the wonderful sport 

of kayaking and probably the best 

kayak club in the world! 

So give your local Canoe & Kayak 

centre a call or better, come and 

see us. 


on 0508 529 256 to find out more. 



Products 

Skua Plastic 

Sea Kayak 

- the latest release from Q- Kayaks surpasses all expectations 

Yahoo! 

I’ve been waiting for a hard arsed kayak. 

I wanted a kayak that is responsive, fast and with enough stability to 

allow me to fish and take photos. In plastic too, so I can treat it with a 

rock landing and the occasional mistake rock gardening. Along with a 

kayak I can use on the river. 

And here it is. 

I want it now. 

Peter Townend 

Director & Founder – Canoe & Kayak Ltd 

New 

Other features include extra bungees on the stern deck for 

stowing a split paddle, a compass mount on the foredeck and 

padded thigh braces. For those who prefer a larger cockpit, the 

Skua can be ordered without the moulded-in thigh brace. 

Steve Knowles of Canoe & Kayak BOP says “The Skua is a real 

kayak surfers’ boat. With the moulded-in thigh braces I felt at one 

with the kayak. It punched out through the 2 metre swell with ease, 

was agile and handled the rough conditions well. Quick off the 

mark and easy to paddle, the Skua is a dream.” Steve also added 

“The modified self rescue system on the aft deck works well. The 

paddle park forward of the cockpit is useful when fishing or taking 

photos.” 

Comfy padded thigh 

braces moulded in. 

Specifications 

Length 515 cm 

Beam 60 cm 

Weight Standard: 27 kg 

- Lite: 24 kg 

Volume 355 Litres 

- Front 75L, Rear 75L, 

Centre Compartment 45L, 

Cockpit 160L 

Cockpit 79 x 46 cm 

RRP $2775 


Products 

Anchor Winders 

from Q- Kayaks 

This new anchor winder from 

Q-Kayaks is a must for all fisho’s. Keep 

the anchor line under control by simply 

winding it around the moulded plastic. 

Threading the anchor line through the 

two holes will ensure the winder isn’t lost 

and is ready for deployment when you 

are. The bitter end is then clipped to your 

anchor system and hey presto! 

New Rhino - 

- Canopy with a Difference. 

2009 A.A.A.A Award Winner 

For a Rhino Sales Centre near you phone - 

0800 866322 

RRP $25.00 

NZKI 1 Star & 

Grade Two River certifcates 

We believe our comprehensive Grade Two Training & Certification is the best you can get. 

To gain the skills to confidently paddle on white water, you need at least 

three weekends on the water with our instructors. 

PHONE NOW 0508 5292569 

OR CALL IN TO YOUR LOCAL CANOE & KAYAK 

CENTRE FOR MORE DETAILS AND COURSE DATES 

2010 Multisport Package $995 



Start Your Adventure Here 


SKILLS COURSE 

A comprehensive course designed to cover the skills required to become a 

competent and safe paddler. The course develops techniques and confidence at 

an enjoyable pace with great end results. It runs over a weekend or by request in 

the evenings. 

With this course you become a Yakity Yak member with access to lots of trips 

and activities around the country. 

Duration: 1 Weekend 

RESCUE COURSE 

WEATHER & NAVIGATION 

You need rescue skills to look 

after yourself and your paddling 

buddies in adverse conditions. 

This course covers towing 

systems, capsized kayaks, T- 

Rescues, paddle floats, stern 

deck carries, re-enter and roll. 

Duration: 1 Session 

ESKIMO ROLLING 

Understanding the weather and ability to navigate 

in adverse conditions is vital when venturing into the 

outdoors. Learn to use charts and compasses and 

forecast the weather using maps and the clouds. 

Duration: 4 Sessions 

KAYAK SURFING 

You’ll learn the skills required to become a competent Eskimo Roller. 

You increase your confidence, allowing you to paddle safely in more 

challenging conditions. 

Duration: 4 Sessions 

OCEANS COURSE 

An advanced course designed to build on your skills. It covers paddling 

technique, kayak control, rescues, preparation, planning and decision making. 

Duration: 1 Weekend/ Overnight 

Surfing is heaps of fun when you know how. You 

will spend the evenings starting in small surf and 

building up to one and a half metre waves. We use 

a range of sit-on-tops and kayaks to make it fun 

and easy to learn. Skills to be taught include surfing 

protocol, paddling out, direction control, tricks 

and safety. 

Duration: 4 Sessions

Phone 0508 529 256 for more info & booking 

White Water Kayaking 

INTRO TO WHITE WATER 

A comprehensive course designed to cover 

the skills required to become a competent 

paddler. Starting off in a heated pool and . 

progressing through flat water to moving 

water, it allows you to develop techniques and 

confidence at an enjoyable pace with great 

end results. 


MULTISPORT & WHITEWATER 

RIVER SKILLS 

On this course you continue to build on the 

Intro to White Water course, developing your 

skills, technique and confidence on faster moving 

white water and progressing to a Sunday day trip 

on a Grade 2 river. It includes eddie turns, ferry 

gliding, rolling, surfing and building new skills in 

River Rescue techniques and River Reading. 


ADVANCED 

WHITEWATER 

A comprehensive package of instruction and coaching designed to 

progressively build your kayaking skills to NZKI 1 Star & Grade 2 Racing 

Certificate level. Run over three weekends you are introduced to white water, 

develop water confidence, river reading and white water skills. You’ll enjoy 

river running instruction on the fastest lines and rebooting all the other skills 

we have taught you during your first two weekends. 

Duration: 3 Weekends 

RIVER RESCUES 

Suitable for paddlers 

who feel comfortable on 

Grade 1 to 2 rivers, you 

learn rope skills, muscle 

techniques, team control, 

heads up, risk management 

and combat swimming and 

skills required to cope with 

entrapments, kayak wraps, 

swimming kayakers and 

their equipment. 


Sharpen your white water skills and learn simple 

rodeo moves. We focus on skills such as river 

reading, body position and rotation, advanced 

paddle technique, playing in holes and negotiating 

higher Grade 3 rapids. We recommend you are 

already feeling comfortable on Grade 2+ rapids. 

Duration: 1 Weekend

Smokin’ Aces 

By Ruth E. Henderson 

Farzad's fish 

smoker 

Nick and Farzad are keen kayak fishermen, who know the 

parable of the loaves and fishes or how to make a few fish feed 

the masses. Their secret is to smoke ‘em, and provide finger 

food for 25 fellow yakkers, offering hot smoked snapper, fresh 

off their portable home-made smokers. 

Nick has created his out of an old biscuit tin with hinged lid. The tin had a 

few holes punched in the sides to let the tantalizing smoke escape. Inside 

he placed and old cake rack. (Another option would be chicken wire.) On 

the tin base he sprinkled untreated manuka sawdust. The prepared fish 

was then placed skin side down 

on the rack. Then the tin 

was placed 

on a standard gas bottle 

cooker and cooked for 

about 10 - 15 minutes. 

Farzad’s smoker is 

made out of a circular 

large coffee tin and 

used lying on its 

side; Easier to fit 

in a small kayak 

hatch, but more 

fiddly to insert the 

fish through the 

Nick's fish smoker 

tin lid opening. 

The preparation 

of fish for smoking 

is simple. There is 

no need to scale it, 

de-bone it or fillet 

it. Simply cut off its head, remove its guts, and then carefully slice close 

to the backbone stopping before you reach the dorsal fin. The fish can 

then be laid out like an open book. Place on smoker rack. On the cut 

surfaces sprinkle a mix of 3 parts brown sugar and one part rock salt. 

The boys have this ready mixed in a screw top jar. Leave to dissolve, 

soak in and marinate for as long as you’ve got: 20 mins is ok, 2 hours 

is better. Time of 

cooking depends on the size and 

thickness of the fish. As a rough rule 

of thumb, allow about 15 

minutes for a one 

pounder (500gm) 

fish. Catch 

enough and 

you will soon 

have it down 

to a fine art. 

Hot smoked fish ready to eat 

Subscribe & Win 

Subscribe today to be in to win one of 

25 Great Stuff 

opti 10l drybags 

worth $29.90 

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Or phone 0508 529 2569 

email: info@canoeandkayak.co.nz 


1 

Buyers Guide 

5 

2 

3 

6 

4 

Inflatables 

When storage is an issue, you can’t beat an inflatable. Inflatable 

kayaks can be stowed in a cupboard or locker in the apartment, on 

a yacht, motorboat or camper van. 

There is no need for a roof rack, as you can transport it in the 

boot. They are light and easy to handle, you can even take them in 

an aircraft. Inflation only takes minutes with a good pump. 

Modern inflatables are surprisingly rigid, easy to paddle and very 

stable. Fun for the whole family. 

Please note: Prices do not include accessories. 

from 

1 Advanced Frame Length: 3.1 m, Weight: 16 kg, $1399 

Single Kayak 

Width: 810 mm 

2 Helios II Length: 3.8 m, Weight: 17 kg $1995 

Width: 750 mm 

3 Safari Length: 3.04 m, Weight: 12.5 kg, $1895 

Width: 720 mm 

4 Whakapapa Length: 4.3 m, Weight: 23 kg, $3087 

Width: 1025 mm 

5 Helios I Length: 3.1 m, Weight: 13.5 kg, $1695 

Width: 710 mm 

6 Advanced Frame Length: 4.5 m, Weight: 25 kg, $2199 

Convertible Double Width: 810mm 

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz 

0508 KAYAKNZ

Buyers Guide 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

Family Kayaking 

The best part of summer is spending time at the beach, on the boat or in 

Please note: Prices do not necessarily include any of 

the water. What better way to enhance the experience than to take a kayak the accessories, hatches, seats or rudders etc shown in 

with you. 

the photos. The prices were correct at the time of printing 

A kayak allows you to get away from the crowded beach and find a more however due to circumstances beyond our control they may 

secluded bay around the corner. The kids will love paddling, jumping off, or alter at any time. Please contact your nearest Canoe & Kayak 

swimming around the kayak. Paddle around the rocks to get to your fishing Centre and they will put together a great package of the best 

spot, or explore the coastline, lakes and rivers. 

equipment available for your kayaking fun. 

Sit - on - top kayaks are extremely stable making them suitable for young 

and old. Your options are endless. You can customize your kayak, to suit 

your needs. Adding seats for comfort, storage hatches, anchor systems, rod 

holders, and even GPS and fishfinders! There is a kayak to suit all uses. 

Grab a kayak that surfs well and the ‘older’ kids will have hours of enjoyment. 

Fun for the whole family. 

Unlike boating, there is no need to hunt down that boat ramp. Whip the 

kayak off the roof rack and in she goes. 

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz

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1 Firefly Length: 2.4 m, Weight: 16 kg $ 510 

Width: 700 mm 

2 Escapade Length: 3.5 m, Weight: 27 kg $1055 

Width: 750 mm 

3 Kiwi Length: 3.75 m, Weight: 18 kg excel $1310 

18 kg Light, Width: 740 mm 

4 Play Length: 3.1 m, Weight: 18 kg $ 545 

Width: 711 mm 

5 Explorer Length: 3.4 m, Weight: 18.2 kg $ 850 

Width: 790 mm 

6 Strike Length: 2.9 m, Weight: 16 kg, $ 895 

Width: 685 mm 

7 Escapee Length: 3.3 m, Weight: 23 kg, $ 830 

Width: 740mm 

from from 

8 Surge Length: 3.9 m, Weight: 28 kg, $ 999 

Width: 850mm 

9 Tandem Length: 3.8 m, Weight: 25.9 kg $1095 

Width: 915mm 

10 Access 280 Length: 2.8 m, Weight: 18 kg, $ 879 

Width: 730 mm 

11 Squirt Length: 2.7m, Weight: 17kg, $ 449 

Width: 760mm 

12 Flow Length: 2.95m, Weight: 19kg, $ 879 

Width: 750mm 

13 XStream Length: 4.2m, Weight: 28kg $1250 

Width: 730mm 

14 Twist I Length: 2.6 m, Weight: 6 kg, $ 995 

Width: 790 mm 

15 Twist II Length: 3.6 m, Weight: 9 kg, $1295 

Width: 830 mm 

0508 KAYAKNZ

Buyers Guide 

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Multisport 

For a healthy body and mind, multisport racing gives a well 

rounded exercise regime for the variety of disciplines required. 

The extremely sociable events circuit has a variety of achievable 

goals where a stepping stone approach can be adopted to reach 

your pinnacle. This may be the Motu Challenge or the Speight’s 

Coast to Coast. You are in control, you choose your goal. 

The kayaks are fast and fun. You’ll easily find the right boat 

to suit your experience level. Remember stability is the first step 

towards speed. 

Please note: Prices do not include accessories. 

1 Viper Length: 5.2 m, Weight: 22 kg, $1695 

Width:550 mm 

2 Hurricane Length: 5.9 m, Weight: 12 kg, $3040 

Width: 490 mm 

3 Gladiator Length: 5.9 m, Weight: 15.5 kg, $2860 

13.5 kg Kevlar, Width: 530 mm 

4 Swallow Length: 5.4 m, Weight: 14 kg, $2710 

12 kg Kevlar, Width: 480 mm 

5 Duet Length: 7.0 m, Weight: 29 kg, $5260 

24 kg Kevlar, Width: 550mm 

6 Firebolt Length: 5.9 m, Weight: 14.5 kg, $2860 

12.5 kg Kevlar, Width: 455 mm 

7 Maximus Length: 6.4 m, Weight: 16 kg $3730 

Width: 510mm 

0508 KAYAKNZ 

from

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Fishing 

No engine to maintain, no boat ramps required, and quiet to boot. 

Kayak fishing is becoming a very popular way of getting out on the 

water. Certainly much cheaper than buying and maintaining a boat. 

Kayaks are used to access those out of the way rocks for surf casting 

and for a quick and easy access to the sea. No crew required. Even the 

smallest car can transport them, with the correct roof rack. 

Nothing beats the hunt for the big one. The stealthy kayak easily 

approaches fish without alerting them to your presence. Each kayak 

can be decked out to suit the paddler’s needs, whether that be rod 

holders, comfy seats, anchor systems, fish finder, GPS, VHF radio. 

Your imagination is the only limitation. 

Please note: Prices do not necessarily include any of the accessories, 

hatches, seats or rudders etc shown in the photos. 

from 

8 Marauder Length: 4.3 m, Weight: 24 kg, $1195 

Width: 780mm 

9 Catch 390 Length: 3.9 m, Weight: 28 kg, $1650 

Width: 850mm 

10 Catch 420 Length: 4.2m, Weight: 28kg $1750 

Width: 730mm 

11 Fish n’ Dive Length: 3.8 m, Weight: 28 kg, $1095 

Width: 915 mm 

12 Tandem Length: 3.8 m, Weight: 25.9 kg $1095 

Width: 915mm 

13 Escapade Length: 3.5 m, Weight: 27 kg, $1055 

Width: 750mm 

14 Water Strider Length: 2.4 m, Weight: 15 kg $1872 

Width: 730mm 


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NEW FOR 2010 

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Getting away from the madding crowds and close to nature is one of 

the most common reasons given for taking up Sea Kayaking. There are 

innumerable stories told of getting up close to wildlife while kayaking. 

Imagine paddling with dolphins, penguins and even orca! 

Sea kayaking is the maritime version of tramping, but you can take the 

kitchen sink. There’s lots of storage in a kayak allowing you to carry more 

than you could on your back. What a way to see the country, exploring 

all our wonderful lakes, rivers and coastline, while getting exercise and 

socializing with a great bunch of friends. 

Please note: Prices do not necessarily 

include any of the accessories, hatches, seats 

etc shown in the photos. The prices were 

correct at the time of printing however due to 

circumstances beyond our control they may 

alter at any time. Please contact your nearest 

Canoe & Kayak Centre and they will put 

together a great package of the best equipment 

available for your kayaking fun. 


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from from 

1 Eco Niizh XLT Length: 5.65 m, Weight: 45 kg $4250 

Width: 760 mm 

2 Contour 490 Length: 4.90 m, Weight: 35 kg $3199 

Width: 760 mm 

3 Beachcomber Duo Length: 5.80 m, Weight: 26 kg $4300 

Width: 700 mm 

4 Incept Pacific Length: 5.35 m, Weight: 22 kg $3591 

Width: 670 mm 

5 Skua Length: 5.15 m, Weight: 27 kg std, $2775 

24 kg light, Width: 600 mm 

6 Beachcomber Length: 4.9 m, Weight: 17 kg, $2950 

Width: 600 mm 

7 Eco Bezhig Length: 5.4 m, Weight: Std 27 kg, $3199 

Width: 590mm 

8 Contour 480 Length: 4.8 m, Weight: 27 kg, $2550 

Width: 620mm 

9 Tasman Express Length: 5.3 m, Weight: 29 kg Std, $2775 

25 kg light, Width: 620mm 

10 Shearwater Length: 4.8 m, Weight: 26.5 kg std, $2545 

23 kg light, Width: 610 mm 

11 Southern Skua Length: 5.4m, Weight: 22kg, $4400 

Width: 600mm 

12 Foveaux Express Length: 5.0 m, Weight: 19 kg, $4280 

Width: 600mm 

13 Torres Length: 5.6m, Weight: 23kg std, $4400 

Width: 600mm 

14 Incept Tasman Length: 4.35 m, Weight: 17 kg, $2970 

Width: 670 mm 

0508 KAYAKNZ

While out kayaking….. 

“ORCA!” 

By Maxine Dignan & Phil Linklater 

By Maxine Dignan 

The shout came and the kayaks 

appeared! 

Another calm, stunning day dawned at Tauranga Bay and after a wander with the dog 

and an early swim, Phil and I started a leisurely paddle around the Arrows. The sea was 

like a mirror. How lucky we are to be able to jump in the kayaks at the bach steps and 

get out on the water. We thought we would drop a bait or two, to see what we might 

catch for dinner. 

While we watched a family attempt to land a dinghy on a steep stony beach, we heard 

a shout. “Orca!” The family scrambled back into the small boat and headed towards 

Tauranga Iti. 

The last time we’d seen a pod of orca passing the beach, we were a bit too 

apprehensive to join them. But here in Marble Bay a flotilla of kayaks had beaten 

us to it. 

For an amazing 50 minutes a large bull, another adult and four smaller orca surfaced 

and blew around us as they tiki-toured along the coast. They didn’t seem bothered by

Editors note: Please remember 

to wear your PFDs whenever 

you are on the water.

the ‘herding’ kayaks and even gave a couple of 

waves with their flukes. Paddling along, looking 

up at the tip of a dorsal fin close alongside the 

kayak was a pretty special experience. 

We kept company with the whales as far 

as Frenchman Rock, stretched our legs in 

Whangaihe Bay and returned to the bach, 

bait unused, reflecting on the privileges 

kayakers enjoy. It had been a first for us and a 

memorable day indeed.

For all your roof rack requirements 

FREE FITTING WHILE YOU WAIT 

(excludes permanent fittings) 

BAY OF PLENTY [ TAUPO [ WELLINGTON [ TARANAKI 

. 

MANUKAU [ WAIKATO [ AUCKLAND [ NORTH SHORE 

0508 529 2569 www.roofrackcentre.co.nz

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD 

AUCKLAND 

BAY OF PLENTY 

MANUKAU 

ST LUKES RD 

NORTH 

SANDRINGHAM ROAD 

DOMINION ROAD 

BALMORAL ROAD 

502 Sandringham Road 

Telephone: 09 815 2073 

Arenel Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Auckland 

CITY 

MAC DONALD STREET 

MAUNGANUI ROAD 

TO TAURANGA BRIDGE 

LIQUORLAND 

HEWLETTS ROAD 

KFC 

3/5 Mac Donald Street, 

Mount Maunganui (Off Hewletts Rd) 

Telephone: 07 574 7415 

Jenanne Investments Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Bay of Plenty 

GREAT SOUTH ROAD 

TOYOTA 

FIRST DRIVEWAY 

BRONCOS 

WIRI STATION ROAD 

MOTORWAY 

SOUTHERN 

NORTH 

710 Great South Road, Manukau 

Telephone: 09 262 0209 

ChallenorReynolds Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Manukau 

NORTH SHORE 

JOIN THE 

TARANAKI 

UPPER HIGHWAY (16) 

NORTHERN MOTORWAY 

NORTH 

CONSTELLATION DRIVE 

ASCENSION PL 

NORTH 

WAIWHAKAIHO RIVER 

DEVON ROAD 

SMART ROAD 

Unit 2/20 Constellation Drive, 

(Off Ascension Place) Mairangi Bay, 

Auckland - Telephone: 09 479 1002 

Flood Howarth & Partners Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak North Shore 

S.H.1. 

TONGARIRO ST 

NUKUHAU 

TAUPO 

SPA ROAD 

RUAPEHU STREET 

LAKE TERRACE 

TANIWHA STREET 

77 Spa Road, Taupo 

Telephone: 07 378 1003 

Acme Kayaking Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Taupo 

S.H.1. 

NORTH 

Phone your nearest 

Canoe & Kayak Centre 

WAIKATO 

KILLARNEY ROAD 

SH1 

BYPASS 

DUKE STREET 

KAHIKATEA DRIVE 

GREENWOOD ST 

DUKE STREET 

KAHIKATEHA DRIVE 

NORTH 

The Corner Greenwood St 

& Duke St, State Highway 1 Bypass 

Hamilton - Telephone: 07 847 5565 

On Water Adventures Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Waikato 

Unit 6, 631 Devon Road 

Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth 

Telephone: 06 769 5506 

Peter & Bronnie van Lith 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Taranaki 

WELLINGTON 

NORTH 

CENTENNIAL HIGHWAY 

HUTT ROAD 

S.H.1 

L V MARTIN 

2 Centennial Highway, 

Ngauranga, Wellington 

Telephone: 04 477 6911 

J & M Downey Limited 

Trading as Canoe & Kayak Wellington 

S.H.2 

For the Ultimate Lifestyle Business, 

Join the team at Canoe & Kayak. 

Centres available NOW! 

Contact Peter Townend for a confidential chat. 09 476 7066 

Pete@canoeandkayak.co.nz

Kayaking Kanakyland Kiwi Style - Canoe & Kayak

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