Making Waves: NZCT Grant Helps Tasman Coastal Rowing Club Stay on Course.

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded Nelson’s Tasman Coastal Rowing Club (TCRC) a grant of $11,863 to purchase a new coastal quad rowing boat, helping the growing club to offer more programming for seniors, youth, and families across the Tasman region.

TCRC has been relying on borrowed and ageing equipment, making it difficult to meet growing community demand. Club Secretary Trisha Strickland says, "Many older adults are currently waitlisted for our programmes due to equipment limitations, and our partnership with Motueka High School has identified about fifty students who are keen to participate. These stable, strong, and seaworthy vessels are specifically designed to accommodate mixed-ability crews in coastal conditions, making them ideal for our intergenerational programmes."

Coastal rowing is perfectly suited to New Zealand’s natural environment and diverse communities. It’s low-impact, easy to learn, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. For older adults, the new boat offers a safe way to stay active and socially connected. Young people will gain confidence, new skills, and positive mentoring experiences. Families will enjoy a rare chance to be active together outdoors, strengthening bonds across generations.

Lyn, a TCRC member who successfully competed at the South Island Masters regatta says, “Since its inception, TCRC’s dedication has recruited many new members of all ages to experience team work (both recreational and competitive) in a non-contact sport that’s rapidly gained national interest and even has some ex-Olympic rowers competing.”

Long term club member and national and international representative, Martin Wouters, adds “Being active and healthy is vital to living a good life and coastal rowing provides this in abundance. The entire team at TCRC have been incredible ambassadors for the sport.”

The club’s partnership with Motueka High School has brought rowing into the school curriculum, giving students opportunities to learn both coastal and traditional rowing, with the goal of competing at local and national regattas.

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges, adds, “TCRC’s work in the community is a fantastic example of how sport can bring people together for all ages and abilities. Grants like this wouldn’t be possible without the responsible gaming partnerships we share with our local venues Hotel Motueka and Ocean Lodge.”