NZCT Helps Heretaunga Waka Ama Club Get Race‑Ready

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a $6,600 grant to Heretaunga Ararau o Ngāti Kahungunu Waka Ama Roopu for new spray skirts and paddling gear for three six‑person waka ama, enabling the club to meet safety requirements, enter races and encourage more people onto the water.

Club President and Chairperson Andy Heyward says replacing the equipment was essential. “Quality spray skirts are a mandatory safety requirement for waka ama racing in New Zealand. Our old spray skirts were worn out to the point that they were unsafe, and we wouldn’t be allowed to participate in races using them.”

For club members, the value of waka ama extends well beyond sport. Hillary Scott‑Kerr, paddler says, "It is not so much about the waka, it is the community that I love."

Wi Smith, founder and life member adds, "It’s actually a lifestyle for me. I know it's a sport and it keeps you healthy, but it's the other side, the camaraderie, it's good for the soul and spirit of our guys."

Roy Boonen, paddler says, "Waka is a community building activity, it forces you to be a community, you can't paddle on your own, you can't win a race on your own, you have to work with other people, and I think there is a lot we gain from that." 

NZCT’s General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says, “We’re pleased to support this club’s kaupapa which brings people together for physical activity and in a way that connects with traditional ahurea. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnership we share with the Clive Hotel via their host responsible gaming lounge.”