Issue 28

Buyers Guide

Kayak Fishing

$5.95 NZ

SPONSORED BY

W H ITE WATE R • R I V E R K AYA K I N G • S E A K AYAK I N G • M U LTI S P O RT Discover Another World

So why choose a Q-Kayak?

• Quality - not only the finish, but the high grade materials used in all Q-Kayaks kayaks

• Excellent NZ designs Designed and manufactured in New Zealand by active paddlers, bringing you high performance, specialized craft

• User friendliness Catering for novice through to elite kayakers

• Warranty Not only a 2 year warranty, but excellent back up service

A full range of Sit-on and Sit-in Kayaks Check out what’s on the water!

PROUDLY NEW ZEALAND MADE & DESIGNED web: www.q-kayaks.co.nz • PHONE: 06 326 8667 2

ISSUE TWENTY

six • 2004

SSUE TWENTYsix • 2004 NZ Distributors: Southern Extreme Ltd. Ph 03 360 2550 Fax I03 360 2499 e-mail thule@irl.co.nz 3

Issue 28 Trout Fishing from a kayak 6 Les Dollard gets a willing pupil hooked on this sport.

Sea Kayaking Safety Gear 9 Karen and Steve Knowles talk about the essential equipment needed for peace of mind on the water.

Spaghetti Bolognaise and Jellied Tongue 20 Neil Watson takes us on long journey down the Waikato River.

Jaws of Death 23 An 80 year old’s memory is still sharp about one day when...

Product Focus 24 Circle what you want for Christmas ... leave in a conspicuous place...

Yakity Yak Photo Essay The North Shore club parties hard.

32

Your club could feature in the next issue!

Mad Yakkers Tea Party 34 Mad hats and other antics get too much attention Weather or Not 36 Despite the weather, Stewart Island proves attractive for some Taranaki paddlers.

What’s On 26 A Yakity Yak Logo competition, Waimakariri familiarisation trips and more Aspects of Leadership: Letting go of the Leash 28 Ray Hollingsworth of AUT asks a hard question.

Getting the drift of the paddling game 38 Lindsay Wright eventually gets the paddling bug.

DVD review 11 Greg Dunning gives his opinion on John Dowd’s “Getting Started” DVD A Weekend of White water 12 The Whakamarino release provided thrills and spills in the Hawke’s Bay .

The Rangitopuni 40 White water fun in Auckland with Sam and Rob. A Guides day off 42 Marty Benson catches more than he bargained for and comes home with a feed or two.

Sea of Rippling Waters 16 Kayakers get out of their boats and go bush at Lake Waikaremoana

The West Coast School of Surf 30 Adventure Philosophy’s Mark Jones gives a few rules for survival in the surf.

Press Releases

44

NZ Kayak magazine’s Buyers Guide

45

Greenland paddle tip

50

Front cover: David Ward on the Wanganui River on Auckland Canoe Club’s 50th Jubilee Paddle.

Photo by Peter Townend

4

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

EDITOR: Peter Townend Ph: [09] 473 0036 Fax [09] 473 0794 Email: pete@canoeandkayak.co.nz SUBEDITOR: Ruth E. Henderson Ph: 021 298 8120 Email: ruth@canoeandkayak.co.nz DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Breakthrough Communications PO Box 108050 Symonds St, Auckland Ph: [09] 303 3536 • Fax [09] 303 0086 Email: kayak@graphics.co.nz Website: www.graphics.co.nz PUBLISHER: Kayak NZ Magazine is published six times per year by Canoe & Kayak Ltd. 7/28 Anvil Road, Silverdale, Auckland PRINTING: Brebner Print DISTRIBUTION: IMD SUBSCRIPTIONS: New Zealand – 1 year 6 Issues = $30 Overseas – 1 year 6 Issues = $50 Payment to: Canoe and Kayak Ltd, 7/28 Anvil Road, Silverdale, Auckland Ph [09] 421 0662 • Fax [09] 421 0663

The Whanganui River has become my holiday destination. Two 5-day trips in November gave me great treats. One was with the Auckland Canoe Clubs 50th anniversary paddle. The other was with fifteen Taupo Nui College students and their keen teachers. I could turn off the mobile phone, switch off business thoughts for a week, and allow my whole system to unwind amidst beautiful native bush. It was great.

My favourite launch is at Ohinepane, 22 kms drive from Taumarunui taking 6 days to reach Pipiriki. It means only 10km travel on some days, with time to eat, read books and tramp to the Bridge to Nowhere.

The Whanganui River is Grade 2. It challenges Sea Kayakers (and everyone) to understand river currents and obstacles which are strange to them. I recommend that you go with a knowledgeable friend or a commercial guide. Guides make the trip safer and much more fun.

This summer I hope to take my oldest able child on the river for a trip we will always remember. Bryn is six, going on seven, and thanks to the Hilton Brown Swim School in Albany, is fast becoming a great swimmer.

(Swimming well is an essential condition before our kids paddle the river.)

In October 70 clubbies came from all over NZ for the Annual Yakity Yak Club Party. The band was great and dancing by Gordon and Lara a fine demonstration! We will however need to find a larger venue for the next party so dancers can swirl to the band while the more chatty clubbies can socialize.

The generous crew raised $676.50 for the Wilson School in Takapuna. Raffles, silent auctions and not so silent auctions with great items donated by Andrew Twiman from Fosters, Chris and Paula Hunter from QBE Insurance and Julie Reynolds from EFEM Foods, and a gift hamper from Treffery Barnett.

Wilson School looks after great kids who have personal challenges considerably greater than most. The staff of teachers and volunteers are the most motivated, kind and passionate people youíll meet anywhere. They help and support families of the special kids who

attend the school more than they probably realize. It was good to help with some cash for the next school project.

Last on my list for this Editorial is the recipe for Family Fun for this summer.

Ingredients 1. The whole family from the young ones to Granny and Grandpa 2. Kayak, Canoes and Sit-On-Tops (enough for the family or one double will do) 3. Well fitting buoyancy aids and paddles 4. Small BBQ, paper plates etc 5. Sausages times two each, bread times one loaf or more if required, Watties Tomato Sauce, Salad, marshmallows, drinks 6. Local destinations, preferably an estuary or lake etc with a maximum 500mtr crossing to a sandy safe swimming beach with no road access.

7. Extra clothing and sun protection Mixing instructions Meet at the beach and using your kayaks paddle to the beach on the other side. If you have more people than kayaks use the double to ferry the extras.

Set up the BBQ and sit down and enjoy the day away from the busy bustle of the beach you have just left.

Cooking Time The best times for these trips are late afternoon with the return paddle being on dusk.

Please remember that the distance paddled should only be short, so that the little ones and some of the oldies don’t over do it.

A very Merry Christmas to you all and thanks for all the support over the year Peter Townend Editor

✄

Subscribe a friend to the Kayak NZ Magazine

Overseas subscribers can make payment via credit card number on subscription form.

CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome contributor’s articles and photos.

• Deadline for issue 29: 10 December 2004 • Deadline for issue 30: 10 February 2005 • Text should be submitted on disk or emailed as a Word text file.

• Photos should be emailed or put on CD as a high resolution (300 dpi) jpg at full size accompanied by captions. Prints should be captioned on the reverse and numbered and listed in text.

• All care will be taken to safeguard and return material.

• No responsibility is accepted for submitted material.

• Material published in the magazine must not be reproduced without permission.

Copyright: The opinions expressed by contributors and the information stated in advertisements/articles are not necessarily agreed by the editors or publisher of New Zealand Kayak Magazine.

ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO: Ruth E. Henderson ruth@canoeandkayak.co.nz New Zealand Kayak Magazine

Subscription Form •

One year subscription, that’s 6 issues for $30, saving nearly $6 off the news-stand price, delivered free.

Name: Email: Address:

G re a t

Phone:

• • • •

Signature

Visa

Mastercard Expiry date:

Send form to Kayak NZ Magazine. PO Box 100 493, NSMC, Auckland.

Or phone [09] 421 0662 Fax [09] 421 0663 email: pete@canoeandkayak.co.nz

Safet

y Flag

Very easy to remove Simply plugs into a rod holder If lost overboard it floats Flexible plastic base and fibreglass shaft Being seen has never been easier

Card No: Cheque

S t u ff

Available at all good Kayak stores Includes Safety Flag & Rod Holder

ISSUE TWENTY

email: greatstuff@graphics.co.nz

eight • 2004

5

K AYA K

FISHING

Trout fishing from a kayak

by Les Dollard When Laura McMaster, my brother Steve’s partner came out from Scotland for a holiday, she didn’t expect to get hooked on kayak fishing...nor to still be in New Zealand ten months later.

Steve had really missed trout fishing in the Taupo area while living in the UK for the last 3 years: it was high on his list of must-do things while back on holiday. Laura had heard a lot of his fishing stories too, and was keen to give it a try.

She had kayaked before, and was quite at home in my old Puffin. With a bit of coaching on a lovely summer evening on Lake Rotoaira, a private lake 20 km SW of Turangi, she didn’t take long to catch her first NZ rainbow trout.

She struggled a bit with the tackle, needed help with tangles on the reel, and to unhook the fish. But she really enjoyed being out on the lake with us.

A few months and several fishing trips later, she’s pretty good at it. She doesn’t call us over for help with tangles any more, can read the lake bottom with the fish finder sonar, and deal with most anything.

One technique we have taught her is ‘harling’. This means trolling with light

6

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

tackle, on a long leader of 10 lb nylon, 10 to 15 metres with 20 or 30 metres of lead line that sinks the lure below the surface. Paddling in deeper water, you point the rod back along the kayak, close to the water, and the line feeds out easily. Set the reel and slowly cruise over fishy looking areas, along the edge of weed beds for instance. We use battery powered fish finders to avoid paddling into shallows and hooking the bottom. These are great gadgets for exploring underwater contours, but you don’t need them when you are just starting out.

You can buy a rod/reel/line all set up and ready to go from about $130. Buy it from a local fishing tackle shop, in the area you want to fish and get advice on when, where and how to use it. Hot tip - our favourite lure for any bushfringed lake is an ‘Olive Wooly Bugger’ fly (don’t laugh, that is what they are called). Ask for one with a bit of sparkle in the tail. Don’t forget you have to buy a licence for trout fishing too, not like the sea.

On the day illustrated Laura had already caught a few, but as soon as this one bit, we could tell it was a better one. It took off like a rocket, and we all heard the big splash when it leapt clear of the water. Many times she eased it close to the kayak, only to have it rush off again. That’s typical for a good rainbow trout. You have to let it run, or the line will break, or the hook will

pull out, as trout have soft mouths. The reels we use have no clutch, so you have to let the handle go. Another sure sign of a good trout is that it jumps clear of the water when hooked, sometimes again and again. The hard fighters are the ones to

eat. They are in their prime, with orange or red flesh like a salmon. Skinny, weak fish have pale flesh and no taste. Put them back to keep feeding and building up condition - a few months and they can be a “new” fish again.

Had a fabulous trip? Captured it on camera? Do you fancy seeing your story in print?

Check out www.canoeandkayak.co.nz for our “Contributors’ Guidelines”.

• No drainage hole • Strenghtening under flange • Only 3 rivets for mounting, less holes in your kayak • Fits Great Stuff safety flag DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS Available at all good Kayak stores email: greatstuff@graphics.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

7

Once Laura could see it was tiring, rolling on its side at the surface, she got ready with the net, led it towards the net, and scooped it up head first (trout haven’t got a reverse, they can only swim forwards).

It was a “beauty”, a jack or male rainbow trout (you can tell the sex by the bigger head and longer jaws on males). It was just starting to get its red winter breeding colours.

She decided to release it unharmed, (we already had some to take home) supporting the fish gently with damp hands to avoid damaging the protective mucus layer, while it ‘caught its breath’. Remember to wash your spray skirt, jacket and landing net when you get home. Fish always leave behind a bit of that mucus layer. It gets smelly after a few days.

Laura still hasn’t got the knack of the ‘sharp whack on the head above the eyes’ to kill a fish. We have a 250mm steel rod under the deck bungies for that. She also prefers us to clean and gut the fish too, “That’s pretty gross,” she says. We guys like to check the stomach contents at the same time, to see what the trout have been eating - bullies, crayfish, damselfly nymphs, and water snails are typical on Lake Rotoaira. Laura is happy to handle the trout again once it has been turned into fish fillets. They taste more like salmon than brown trout back home in Scotland.

Now she’s catching as many as any of us, sometimes more. She has become a kayak fisherwoman, or “fisherchick” as Steve puts it. And the NZ holiday?

- it may become a permanent move. They haven’t fished much over the winter, but soon it will be time to visit Lake Taupo. In November big Taupo trout start chasing the smelt into the shallows. Smelt are a type of land-locked whitebait, spread throughout the lake for most of the year, but they gather to breed in shallows off sandy beaches in the early summer. Especially at first light we will watch the sunrise from our kayaks and enjoy hot fishing action. ‘Smelting’ will be at its peak around the Christmas holidays - so if you are in the Taupo or Rotorua areas with your kayak, why not give it a go, you might like it.

8

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

S E A K AYA K I N G

Sea Kayaking Safety Gear

by Karen and Steve Knowles

Every weekend hundreds of enthusiastic sea kayakers cruise inner harbours or take on the elements exploring coastlines and offshore islands. Most trips end in great memories and plans to do it all again. Unfortunately a few don’t. A good trip plan can avoid most bad experiences but having the right gear for those ‘just in case moments’ is essential. No matter what your trip plan expectations are, make sure you carry the right safety gear.

Kayak - make sure the kayak you are paddling suits your intended purpose and your weight including the gear you plan to take. Setting off to circumnavigate Lake Waikaremoana on a 2m sit on top kayak will make for a very long and arduous trip.

Buoyancy Aid - Buoyancy Aids loose their buoyancy steadily over time.

Make sure yours will still provide the buoyancy you need. Test your buoyancy

aid by tying 6kg of weight to it (more for white water BA’s). Then place the buoyancy aid in a tub full of water. If it sinks, so might you.

Paddle - Think of your paddle like the gears of a car. Your paddle length and blade design needs to suit the type of paddling you intend to do. Get your local kayak shop to match a paddle to you, your kayak and your idea of a great day on the water. Paddling with a brick will slow you down and put you and your paddling buddies at risk.

Clothing - No matter what your plan is - take extra clothes. Not just for after the paddle but during the paddle as well. Extra polypro, warm hats and sun hats should always be carried. A good quality paddle jacket that is wind proof, waterproof and breathable should be taken on all trips. Check your paddle jacket is seam sealed or it will eventually leak.

Paddle Float - An essential safety item for sea kayakers to self rescue in the event of a capsize. OK, so you have tried getting back into your kayak unaided and had no problems. But, were those realistic conditions for capsizing in the first place? It only takes a few minutes in cold water to get hypothermic.

If you don’t know how to use a paddle float ask your local kayak shop for

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

9

advice. If you don’t carry a paddle float you’re a bloody idiot.

Pump or Bailer - Once you’re back in the kayak you need to get the water out to regain stability.

A hand pump works better than a bailer in rough conditions as you can put your spray skirt back on, and then slip the pump through a small gap into the cockpit.

Split Paddle - Most sea kayakers love rock gardening. Make sure you carry a spare paddle just in case you get too close and manage to snap a paddle. Coastal paddlers who may be doing lots of surf exits and entries should also carry Split paddles.

Communications - Cell phone coverage is fairly good in most commonly paddled waters. Mobiles make a very easy means of communicating with friends to get weather updates, give trip updates or to call emergency services if needed. Where cell phones fade a VHF radio will still provide communication with the coastguard plus access to their weather services. Whichever form of communication you carry, make sure it is in a dry bag.

First Aid Kit - Another item to take along every time you venture out in your kayak. Don’t forget to beef up your first aid kit to suit more adventurous trips. Your local Canoe and Kayak shop holds First Aid courses tailored for kayaking.

Phone for the next course dates.

Helmet - Sea kayakers on multi-day coastal expeditions should strap a helmet to their decks

Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers N.Z. Inc. (KASK)

for the odd gnarly surf landing that may be forced upon them. Coming out of your kayak may hurt your pride but being smacked on the head by your pride and joy will hurt even more.

Flares - An essential item for expedition paddlers who may get several kilometres off shore.

Pinpoint flares are for use once you have line of sight with your rescuer. Parachute flares only burn for around 30 seconds so once again, you need to be sure someone is looking for you or has a high chance of spotting your flare. Check the expiry date on your flares and replace when required.

Safety Flag - Flags are becoming more and more common amongst sea kayakers, especially in our busier harbours. Give boaties every chance of seeing you, especially if paddling amongst ocean swells. Fluoro orange flags glow brightly, especially in fading afternoon light.

Deck Light - A single round white light is the law, putting this on a 1m stand off your deck means that it can be seen. Wearing a head torch or having a hand torch to wave at oncoming vessels is also recommended in emergencies. Strobe lights are for emergency use only, not for general night paddling. Also carry a glow stick on your B.A. incase you end up in the water and your decklight or torch fails when wet.

Tow Lines - A well-planned sea kayak trip should mean your towline is your least used accessory.

However even the most experienced paddler can twist a wrist at lunchtime or regret that curry from the night before. Towing another kayaker can be very dangerous for both parties. Anyone carrying

KASK is a network of sea kayakers throughout New Zealand

KASK publishes a 146 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 $25.00.

Kask PO Box 23 Runanga 7854 West Coast

10

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

a towline should undergo training to ensure they know how to use it safely.

Knife - Anyone carrying a towline, fishing line, nets or a sail should also have a knife on hand. If caught in lines underwater you will need a knife to free yourself as fast as possible. Buoyancy aids often have a knife patch to hold the knife or these can be added to your current B.A. Whistle - A small item kept on your buoyancy aid can so easily save your bacon. Your whistle needs to be loud enough to be heard over roaring seas and wind. The ‘Storm Whistle’ is military grade and well worth the investment for your safety.

Photos by Ruth E. Henderson

DVD Review

“ Seamanship for Kayakers Getting Started” Hosted by John Dowd

The text on the box containing the D.V.D. states that it “is designed to provide a balanced introduction to sea kayaking, making the point that above all, this is an activity that calls for knowledge and sound judgement. While covering the basic paddling technique, it emphasizes the point that seamanship is a complex body of knowledge that includes navigation, oceanography, weather, group management skills and local knowledge as well as equipment and boat handling skills.”

The DVD follows two groups of paddlers. One group illustrates the correct way of doing things, the other group, ‘the Motley Crew’, shows the incorrect way. (The scary thing is that the second group bears an uncanny resemblance to a group of kayakers I often paddle with - just kidding Steph.)

The breadth of the video’s coverage is illustrated by the chapter headings Planning, Before You Launch, Harbour Safety, Basic Stokes, Aids to Navigation, Loading, Paddling in Currents, Rolling, Capsize Recovery, Assisted Recovery, What to Wear, Camping, Observation and Piloting, Weather Radio, Role of the GPS, Using a Compass, Interpreting Weather, Paddling in the Wind, Handling Surf, Safe Drinking Water, Securing the Camp.

Obviously some topics are covered briefly. As an experienced (if not expert) kayaker I found the chapters on Basic Strokes, Capsizes, Paddling in Currents, Rolling and Handling Surf particularly interesting. While there was nothing new in the information (which is a reflection on the quality of instruction available through clubs in New Zealand) it provided a succinct summary of important aspects of each topic.

The DVD is the first in a series. Later videos will deal with topics in greater depth. I look forward to viewing these. In the meantime, I commend this first DVD as the best way for paddlers to refresh their knowledge and basic skills while staying warm and dry.

Greg Dunning Available at all Canoe & Kayak stores $39.95.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

11

W H I T E WAT E R K AYA K I N G

A weekend of whitewater

by Alan Bell The biannual Whakamarino release beckoned, so we headed to northern Hawkes Bay for a weekend of spills and thrills. We arrived in Wairoa early evening and headed for the Riverside Motor camp. This place has the cleanest showers and toilets you’ve ever seen and you get piped C&W music when you’re in the loo!

Saturday morning was time to run the fast and furious, non-stop Whakamarino hydro slide where the normally dry riverbed turns into a rollercoaster grade 3 rapid for several kilometres.

Being first down adds a few extra elements of excitement and anxiety as trees are common, eddies are rare and you don’t get much time to react. But all went well despite 2 portages around logs and a few blackberry scars here and there.

At Piripaua, where the gradient evens out a bit, Tristan and Will joined us for some surfing and general fun on the river. As well as these two, our group comprised Mark J, Lea, Alan, Yon, Kei and Phil from Hutt as well as Graeme from Wanganui.

Also on the water was a trio of Auckland paddlers including Matt from Manukau, a big group from Hawkes Bay including Warren Hales who generally organises these releases - thanks Warren.

After the breath-taking run on the Whakamarino, the Piripaua seemed very sedate. However there were several good play spots and everybody had a go at surfing. Phil even changed boats from Blunt to Rad, others just had to try their best in their fat boats!

We decided to spend the afternoon looking for Sit-on-top touring kayak

new water rather than do another run on the release. Alan had maps and some info on the mysterious Hangaroa River. Graeme Egarr’s descriptions suggested there would be

ESCAPEE

Probably the closest you will come to finding one kayak that does it all. Surfing, fishing, snorkelling.

Length Width

3.3 metres 75 cm

Weight Price

23 kgs $910

Available NOW at leading kayak stores.

12

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

A Paddlers Paradise

TAUPO FULL SERVICE SPECIALIST STORE

AW E S O M E P E O P L E / G R E AT F U N

reasonable whitewater upstream from Donneraille Park at Hangaroa Bluffs.

Some of our group were a bit frustrated after 2 hours driving along windy narrow roads without seeing a hint of a decent rapid. But when we arrived at the Bluffs lo and behold, there was a sight for sore eyes!

TOURS & SPECIALIST GUIDING

The view was truly stunning - a sheer drop of around 100m into a nice rock garden with a miriad of possible lines and several nice looking waves. To cap it off an old 4WD lay at the bottom of the bluffs in a crumpled mess.

That was it, we had a run to do. But time was short. The least enthusiastic of the group offered to run shuttle while the keen ones donned their wet gears in the rain and prepared to explore the mighty Hangaroa. Very soon our group - Phil, Lea, Tristan, Graeme and Alan headed off. The run started in rock gardens, then the gradient picked up as the gorge narrowed. There were several rocky drops which got bigger as we lost altitude. The final horizon line revealed a nice double drop with a total height of around 3m. The best line was from hard right but Phil went left and tried to ride a rock ledge on his way down. Luckily no one had a video camera to record the move, which lacked finish!

EXTENSIVE RANGE OF COURSES

CONFERENCE GROUPS / SCHOOLS

This gorge is very beautiful. What a buzz to find some new water and all credit to Graeme Egarr and his river descriptions. At high flows there would be one or two sticky holes here.

On down to Donneraille Park bridge where Mark and Will were waiting for us. The flat water made it difficult for them to believe the fun we had had in the gorge. But we know!

Some further exploration on the Hangaroa should be well worthwhile.

Saturday night turned into a very social occasion when we met at the local Club for ales and meals. The other Wellington paddlers included Paul C, Debs, Louis and Irish Shane. Also down from Gisborne was Scott. Having already run the Ruakituri that day, Paul’s group were keen to try for a ‘walk-in’ to find even more gnarly rapids on this river.

G AT E WAY T O C E N T R A L N T H I S L A N D Mon to Fri 9am - 6pm / Sat & Sun 9am - 5pm

38 Nukuhau Street, Taupo Ph: 07 378 1003 • Fax: 07 378 1009 email: taupo@canoeandkayak.co.nz

0800 KAYAKNZ 0800 529 2569

Our group’s intentions were to run the usual top run and then continue down for the grade 2-3 run so everyone would get a paddle. So on Sunday it was a mass exodus to the Ruakituri. As well as the two Wellington groups there were the Auckland trio and the Hawkes Bay CC mob.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

13

To add interest, it was the opening weekend for the trout fishing season. Fishermen were everywhere and caused concern. We tried to be as friendly as possible! However, it might be a good idea to avoid this weekend for future Whakamarino releases Warren?

Louis T had run the top Ruakituri on Saturday and offered to guide the Hutt group down rather than do the walk-in. There are plenty of tight rapids and the lines are far from obvious so his offer was gladly accepted. Just as our group was about to depart, Paul and the walk-in mob returned, fishermen had persuaded them that they were wasting their time! So we all ended up on the river together - Louis, Kei, Mark, Alan, Lea, Graeme, Phil and Yon as well as Paul, Shane, Scott and two Auckland guys. Initially it was chaos as the two groups eddy hopped their way down. Paul’s team had the benefit of Saturday’s run as well as being gun paddlers. Along with the two Auckland paddlers, they soon headed away - Louis and his team were left to take each rapid at a more leisurely pace with plenty of scouting etc.

Somewhere in all the excitement Phil “jumped ships” and ended up about 500m downstream from our group !

The boulder gardens were challenging and deserve respect. Louis described the moves required very well. There were a few temporary pins and when Kei’s Huka spun around he ran a tricky drop backwards. Lea and Graeme handled the conditions really well despite not having paddled much for a while. Mind you, the Whakamarino run is good for focussing the mind and honing the reactions.

After an hour or more of tight rock gardens the river opens up. Several fast chutes lead to the waterfall features. The first is really a slide over a concave rock face - it’s pretty spectacular and easily run when you stay hard left. Kei found out the hard way. He let himself drift to the right and ended up going deep and rolling up, to much shouting and yahooing.

The second drop needs a boof move on river right.

As Louis says, “Head for the overhanging rock”.

Sweet. However, Yon went a bit far left and had to paddle hard to avoid getting sucked back. If you want a photo for your album, this is the place to have it taken! Just fantastic scenery.

More rock gardens and then the very sticky river wide hole. Everyone slid down the rock face on river right to re-enter the river below the hole. It needed some skill to avoid the hole! Yon and Kei had nervous moments when the powerful eddy on river right threatened to suck them back into the hole. Alan avoided this move altogether by walking around. He had had a bad moment above this hole when he got pinned after catching an eddy awkwardly. Louis and Yon were quickly to the rescue and made sure that only Alan’s pride was damaged. A reminder that the River is BOSS! Another kilometre of rock gardens and more excellent scenery and we were at the end of the

14

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

top run. It was time for lunch and to join Tristan, Will and Debs for the next run to Puhoro. It takes about an hour and is fun grade 2-3. The road is close by in case anyone wants out at any stage. We had twelve on this stage with a mixture of abilities and boats. Everyone had fun and there were a few good play spots.

As usual Irish Shane checked out every eddy on the river. Tristan and Will were pleased to be on the water, finally. It was unfortunate that we did not have time to carry on to Erepeti as well, to give the two lads a decent run. However, time was against us and with a long drive home ahead we opted to take out at Puhoro.

For future reference, the top run will easily take 34 hours for first timers and grade 3-4 paddlers. If you also want to run down to Erepeti afterwards (another 3 hours) it’s a long day.

Thanks to Louis for his efforts on the Ruakituri.

Kayakers Lodge Taupo Taupo Looking for a place to stay in Taupo???

Accommodation available throughout the year to Yakity-Yak club members and their families...

Ideal for sport and school groups...

Situated on the banks of the Waikato River our Kayakers Lodge accommodates up to 12 people, is fully furnished, with plenty of parking and a quiet location.

Come for a well deserved break in Taupo! $25 per person per night.

For further details and reservations call Canoe & Kayak Taupo

0800 KAYAKNZ (529 256) email taupo@canoeandkayak.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

15

K AYA K E R S G O B U S H

SEA OF RIPPLING WATERS Lake Waikaremoana

by Ruth E. Henderson

16

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

The water was freezing and I mean FREEZING, as we splashed and shrieked our way up the stream. Ankle high ‘body-glove’ and even calf high diver’s booties were totally inadequate footwear for this adventure. The alternative route of squeezing and pushing through the spindly, densely populated tutu bushes growing on the swampy shoreline was marginally more attractive. The knee depth mud in one section, with the suspicion of taniwha had the ‘girls blouses’ among us squealing, and plunging back into the icy waters. Our quest was the Mokau Falls, the location Lake Waikaremoana, the Sea of Rippling Waters. As explorers we failed this particular mission. Perhaps because we’d already marvelled at and photographed them from above, as we neared the end of our dusty road journey.

Our adventure had begun after leaving the civilizations of Rotorua and then Murapara.

Impressions gained along the ninety kilometre journey on the windy, metal road past trees dripping with lichen and epiphytes were of a primeval forest, ancient, untouched by man. Errol Braithwaite in the ‘Companion guide to the North Island of N.Z.’ with succinct brevity captures the mood with these words - “untamed, uncontrived beauty.”

The first roadside view of water, and the white cliffs of the Panekiri range with the bush covered summit looming 600m above, gave the WOW anticipation barometer another nudge.

Four days here - what lay in store? If ‘Wild N.Z.’ by Readers Digest, was to be believed - a veritable visual and sensual feast for the outdoor enthusiast - the complete package tour, as “within the 212,672 ha enclosed by the Urewera National Park lie virtually all the landscape features that characterise the inland North Island - grassy river flats, hog-backed ridges, limestone bluffs, podocarp and beech forests and a trout-stocked lake.”

Other writers’ whimsical references to ‘spirits of ancestors’; wood elves in sombre forests; fierce taniwha in deep pools; and goblins by cliff and cave all added to the mystery and intrigue and gave promise of an exciting time.

Elsdon Best’s ‘Waikaremoana - The Sea of Rippling Waters’ recounts a journey on foot and by canoe with a barefoot Maori Kaumatua, “...every hill and gulch and streamlet having its tale to tell of war and battle... “. He alludes to the

Maori wars, with Te Kooti as the prophet and leader of the Tuhoe, and uses the phrase “children of the mist”. If I had read it beforehand my mood and expectation of enchantment could have been higher still.

No day was disappointing. On day one, talk about four seasons in one day! After the icy stream we had rain, then hail then sunshine ...it was spring!

Black swans swam by, protectively guiding their downy goslings, and paradise ducks with their dappled babies in tow made V shaped ripples on the clear, clear water. The lake acted as a big reflector pond for the passing clouds during the day, and finally at dusk for the most exquisite sunset: soft subdued, ghostly light in a silent silence.

The Specialist Kayak Shop in the Bay Open 7 Days

Mon – Fri: 9.00am – 5.30pm.

Sat: 9.00am – 4.00pm.

Sun: 10.00am – 2.00pm.

E-mail kayak.hb@xtra.co.nz

HAWKE’S BA HAWKE’S BAYY

dly Advice e re s c n s c i o H A e • r i e s s i r r es • F • K u ayaks • Co Yakity Yak

Heaps of trips & club activities

The Best Kayak Club Around

PH: 06 842 1305

15 Niven St, Onekawa, Napier

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

17

18

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

Next morning the volume of the bellbird and tui song at 5 am was such that sleep was a ridiculous notion. The birds eventually routed us from our sodden tents, the prospect of damp polypro and packing up damp gear the only hindrance to gleefully greeting the day.

Once out, paddles dipping into the dark blue waters, we warmed to our climate and surroundings. Cruising past a 200m deep sward of kowhai in full bloom was like being in an aviary.

Scores of tui worked the flowers and courted, swooping and flying with stunning aerodynamic displays through the yellow thicket.

Elsewhere five-fingers, tutu, clematis, rewarewa, kakabeak, and cabbage trees were also in flower and their attendant insect menagerie attracted small flitting birds. The fantails, rifleman, tomtits, grey warblers, and silvereyes all darting and diving, intent on catching lunch were oblivious to us as we quietly slid by and entered Eldon Best’s gorgeous “Wairau branch of the lake known as Wairau-moana. The most beautiful scenery, for here are many little wooded islets, sandy beaches and small bays with forest-covered points extending out into the lake, the whole forming a most delightful and charming scene.”

At our bivouac camp our second day ended as it had begun, with birdsong. The weka and morepork provided the music to cook and slumber to. The only interruption to our songful solitude, the odd grunt and snort. NO, not snoring, but pigs extending their fern root excavations!

Sunshine was spasmodic the next day: scenery was spectacular rating a 10 out of 10 WOW factor.

It started with a paddle in water so clear it revealed an aquatic wonderland of grassy eleocharis and ranunculus weeds. Trout grazed amidst the trunks of trees, preserved under water for 2000yrs when the lake was formed by a rock fall damming up the valleys.

Once at Korokoro, we again abandoned our boats, this time donning boots and packs to clamber up the formed track to the falls.

Monstrous mature native beech trees were

predominant and provided us with a soft carpet of leaf litter to walk on. This was a vibrant forest in all stages of life; patches of comparatively juvenile rimu, ribbonwood, and celery pine surrounded by the remains of decaying forest giants, which in turn had seedlings sprouting from their humus. Moss covered boulders, kidney fern dells dappled in sunlight, a gurgling stream to cross and recross, a few huffy and puffy hills and finally a roaring 22m high waterfall.

From the foot of the falls I swear we spotted two elves dancing on the lip. After exploring the many islets enroute back to camp, those of us with a taste for bush-bashing and wanting to experience more of this wilderness, battled supplejack and bush-lawyer in a fruitless search for some caves.

Our leader must have read Best’s book as he urged us to get up at 5am to break camp, for 7am on the water. We resisted, called for an hour’s respite, and he demurred. A pity. The gentle wind that gave us a chance to sail under paddle blade, turned nasty once past Ohiringa bluff and gave some team members their first taste of surfing “white crested waves, surging across the troubled lake and breaking in wrath on the rock-bound shore”.

Plans to paddle back to our start point of Aniwaniwa were aborted and we raced headlong to Onepoto, the outlet for the lake. The lake level rises and falls in heavy rain, with melting snow and is fed by underground springs, so does appear tidal. Certainly on this day we could have been at sea and once on dry land agree with Best: “As we view the expanse of angry, surging waters, and listen to the hoarse roar of the white surf, it is

hard to believe that this is but an inland lake, and not an inlet of the great ocean, with the swell setting in from the far Pacific.”

Thankfully, Onepoto is also the roadhead and it wasn’t difficult to hitch a ride with some disappointed but weather-wise fishermen back to the Motorcamp to collect our cars, before hot showers and farewells.

A day into our journey, discussion had taken place about the theme of the trip. I suggested that, for me, it was botanical, for others it was clearly a culinary experience, (“Kayak Kookery” article from Rachel and Dave or Brenda and Stevan to follow!!), for Peter a first time camping experience, for Charlie an elfin one. Whatever the personal objectives, the outcome surely was: Mission accomplished. Expectations meet. Thank you Gordon.

Footnote: Following Karen and Steve Knowles’s “Snigger” snippet about tramping in the last magazine, I must admit to a bit of ‘cross-dressing’. After kayaking Lake Waikaremoana I vowed that ‘I’d be back’ to walk it ... if only there was a guided walk and I didn’t have to lug all my gear on my back.

Voila - enter Hilary Sheaff and Rob Franklin of Walking Legends.

Last year they secured the DoC concession and I’ve just completed their first walk of the season without suffering any privations. Red wine, chocolate, fresh fruit and veggies, pancakes, trifle ...See www.walkinglegends.com if you want to see how you can have your cake and eat it!!

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

19

S E A K AYA K I N G

Spaghetti Bolognaise and Jellied Tongue- Cambridge to Tuakau

by Neil Watson

Inspired by the Auckland Canoe Centre’s Cambridge to Hamilton race I made plans to explore the Waikato River further. Teaming up with Evan Pugh the weekend began when I pulled into “Sheepskinsnstuff ”, Putaruru, at 9 pm, Friday. Evan and Linda had the spare room made up and I retired after a pleasant evening getting acquainted with the Pughs and their paddling exploits. We rose before dawn the next morning, packed the van and drove to Cambridge. Evan donated a can of spaghetti bolognaise to replace the frozen curry I left at home. I parked my car at Evan’s mate’s place in Cambridge and Linda dropped us off at the boat ra m p o n t h e ri g h t b a n k o f t h e Waikato River.

The Waikato (“flowing water”) is the longest river in New Zealand, rising in tributaries which drain the north from the central plateau into Lake Taupo. Eight hydroelectric dams take advantage of the 300m descent to Cambridge. Below Cambridge the river grades gently to the Tasman Sea forming numerous lakes and lagoons along its lower reaches.

We launched at 8am and slowly wound up to a steady pace. The river level and sediment load were high. A sort distance downstream of the boat

20

ISSUE TWENTY

ramp sewage floated in the water. No other craft were on the river apart from a sit-on-top paddler without a PFD. First stop was the automated loo at the Hamilton Rowing Club near the Bridge Street road bridge... a dual experience in technology and relief! The river bank walkway had been extended to the city outskirts since I left Hamilton in 1994.

The area occupied by present day Hamilton was first settled around 1700 by the Ngatiwairere, a sub-tribe of Tainui. European settlers arrived over 150 years later. Hamilton was made a borough in 1877 and named after Captain Charles Hamilton who was killed in the battle of Gate Pa. Downstream of Hamilton the closeness of the high, steep sided bushed riverbanks fell away. The current slackened perceptibly as the river widened and the landform changed to a flat alluvial plain of farms and lifestyle blocks. We carried on past the city sewage treatment plant, the dairy factory and rubbish dump at Horotiu.

Approaching the dump, there was a strong smell of putrefying waste. The lunch stop was the kayakers’ seat in front of the Ngaruawahia Golf course; an apt spot as Ngaruawahia means, “break open the food pits”.

We were back on the water at noon and glided quietly past Turangawaiwai Marae; Tainui’s base and residence of Dame Te Atarangi Kahu, the first Maori Queen. In the 1800’s, Tainui farmed the banks of the Waikato intensively, supplying Auckland with produce transported by large canoes and portaged to Waiuku on the Manukau Harbour. Portages at Onehunga and New Lynn accessed the Waitemata Harbour.

The Waipa River, a major tributary, joined the

eight • 2004

Waikato immediately downstream of Ngaruawahia; its muddier water adding to the discolouration of the main river. Stock grazed to the water’s edge and the distinct smell of farm effluent tinged the air. Taupiri Mountain eased into view around a bend and remained in sight for about an hour as we paddled two relatively straight sections towards its base. The isolation of the river and rhythmic sound of slicing paddles was broken at Hopuhopu where State Highway 1 and the Main Trunk Rail Line joins the right bank and continues to Rangiriri. At Taupiri, the river turned north east to slip between the Hakarimata and Taupiri Ranges. The hard greywacke rock forming the ranges is mined in several quarries for use as road and concrete aggregate.

The Huntly road bridge, followed closely by the rail bridge heralded Huntly Township. Huntly is a coal town. Coal was first discovered about 1840 but not exploited until after the Waikato Wars in the 1860’s. Coal ran the Riverboats using the Waikato River and was barged to a railhead at Mercer to supply Auckland. The rail bridge, built in 1914, gave access to coal fields west of the river and by 1918 coal was barged from the west to Taupiri, Ngaruawahia and Hamilton.

We quickly closed on the Huntly Power Station getting a little too close to the outflow structure despite the warning signs. My boat turned in the strong current narrowly avoiding a marker pole despite a quick sweep stroke and the right rudder pedal threatening to penetrate the forward bulkhead. Evan picked the transmission line across the river that marked our campsite 2.5km downstream of the power station. My remark that the motel unit on the opposite side of the river

would be great place to stay drew a raised eyebrow.

The evening meal was a Spartan affair for some. I couldn’t find the spaghetti bolognaise to complement my rice so Evan dipped bemusedly into his reserves and my menu was updated to rice and jellied tongue. Part way through the cook up, the neighbouring farmer, two sons and a dog turned up. Evan’s PR skills completely disarmed them although there was some confusion when the farmer left, calling his dog (name of Watson), to heel amid the smell of burning rice. We spent the rest of the evening keeping a wary eye on the flight paths of a family of shags as they roosted for the night in a nearby tree. The sunset slowly grew to a deep red band framed by high cloud and low rolling hills. We watched until the descending darkness pushed it below the horizon.

The next day the weather was ideal again; cool, cloudy and no wind. We made a sedate 9.30am start. The first stop was to check a future campsite on Manutahi Island, a short distance downstream of the Rangiriri road bridge. In 1863 during the New Zealand land wars, 850 British soldiers, artillery and gunboats attacked the pa at Rangiriri as they advanced south into the Waikato. The main body of 500 defenders evacuated the pa the following night. The pa included a 5m deep trench stretching nearly 1km from the Waikato River to Lake Waikare and a central redoubt 7m high feet above the bottom of the ditch.

Further downstream a hawk swooped to river

level in front of the kayaks, stalled momentarily, thrust its talons below the surface, and then rose holding a piece of carrion.

The lunch stop presented a tricky exit on a slippery bank that dropped vertically into deep water. After a short walk, Evan located his trusty log, which had provided lunchtime seating on 3 previous trips. We slipped back onto the water via seal and side launches.

From a kilometre upstream of Meremere, we heard stock cars and motorbikes at a dirt track meet. Drawing opposite to the track we could only see the dust rising above the high riverbank. The hulks of several barges lay on the banks; some built of steel and timber and others timber only.

The old Meremere coal fired power station, which is being dismantled slid into view, begging to be finally put out of its misery. Closer to Mercer we saluted traffic queued on State Highway 1 waiting at the road works on the new section between Mercer and Meremere.

The next township was Mercer preceded by its road bridge and an increasing head wind. Mercer has two rowing clubs, side by side on the left bank.

One belongs to the locals and the other to an Auckland club, which found the Waitemata harbour, more often than not, too rough for rowing and decided to build a club at Mercer.

Downstream of Mercer the topography steepened and the higher ground to the north and east turned the river westward through the Franklin

Cambridge to Tuakau Stage

Distance Duration

Cambrige to Huntly 66 km

7.5 hours (0800 to 1530)

Huntly to Tuakau

5.5 hours (0930 to 1500)

45 km

Volcanic Field. The rich, red volcanic soils that have developed in the weathered volcanic ash and lava in the Bombay and Pukekohe areas grow vegetable produce for Auckland.

We elected the right hand channel at Te Toki Island anticipating a reduction both in distance and the head wind compared to the main channel.

The Auckland water treatment station is downstream of Te Toki on the right bank. The

As seen from the Southern Motorway

Open 7 Days

PH: 09 262 0209

MANUKAU

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz E-mail: manukau@canoeandkayak.co.nz

710 Great South Road, Manukau ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

21

station and its 38km pipeline were commissioned in 2001 and supply about 10% of the Auckland region’s water needs. In 2003 the supply was stopped for a while after a truck accident near Hamilton tipped several tonnes of urea fertiliser into the river. It is prudent to heed the warning signs at the water intake, as the current is considerably stronger on that side of the river.

One kilometre upstream of Opuawhanga Island and still paddling into a head wind, we passed under a gas pipeline bridge. The pipeline carries gas from the Kapuni gas treatment plant in Taranaki supplying Auckland and places north to the Kauri Dairy Factory near Whangarei.

We passed a small sand dredging operation with more obsolete than operational gear strewn along the riverbanks. Around the corner the gleaming white Tuakau road bridge edged into view until it spanned the full width of the river. At 3 pm we closed on the right bank towards our get out, turned upstream and nosed the kayaks gently onto the concrete boat ramp. The park toilets were locked necessitating a quick trot to the nearest clump of shoulder high vegetation. We unpacked the kayaks while power boats plied the

river; hoons did wheelies at the far end of the park and a family of three shared afternoon tea at the top of the ramp.

transhipped at Cambridge and I returned to Auckland. Unpacking at home, a can of spaghetti bolognaise rolled from under my kayak seat.

Linda arrived in the van 30 minutes later...delayed by traffic near Mercer! We packed the van and Evan drove back to Cambridge via the Pokeno ice cream shop. My boat was

PS - Although Pete and Sue Sommerholder have sold the Auckland Canoe Centre, they are going to continue organising the annual Cambridge to Hamilton kayak race.

Designers & Constructors of Multisport & Adventure Racing Kayaks Phone/Fax 06 374 6222 E-mail:- mike@ruahinekayaks.co.nz Website:-www.ruahinekayaks.co.nz

Rebel New, fast, funky kayak for the smaller paddler in the 50 to 70kg range.

22

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

Jaws of Death

by A.J. Murray

In 1947 I was paddling a canoe (sea type, frame and canvas) when I encountered a fairly large shark, about 11 feet or 3.3 metres long, either a 7gilled or one of the whaler varieties. First there was a big splash, then a solid bump under the stern. I watched him come around about 10 metres away to make another pass at me, but I dragged my canoe to the left with the paddle.

Next thing he stopped on the surface beside my canoe, and partly under the right hand side. His pectoral left fin was under my knees and the tip was visible. He was broad in the back.

Well, you tend to forget things in time and one day I was off the Kaikoura peninsula about half a mile out riding the swells. It was a lovely day. I was enjoying myself. Then I began to get uneasy. I’d learnt to trust the old 6th sense. Panic. Keep elbows close in, out of the water. I made steady progress back to camp and home. Sold the kayak later.

I was a big powerful hombre in those days: he didn’t attack me, I attacked him. Got in two hefty cracks on him before the paddle broke. I then made tracks for the shore, FAST.

Maybe you don’t want to know these tales? But do read Xavier Maniguet’s “The Jaws of Death: Shark as a Predator, Man as Prey.”

Now I have a strange little sit-on-top to paddle odd times on the lakes and also a new Synchro. I can easily throw either on top of the roof rack on my car. Suits me when I don’t want the hassle of towing a trailer-boat.

MULTI SPORT • RECREATION • SEA KAYAK • WHITE WATER • POLO

Canoe & Outdoor World

Legend Paddles Day Two Thule Wilderness Systems 7 Pilgrim Place, Christchurch. Ph.03 366 9305 * Stockists of New Zealands top-rated kayaks & kayaking gear * Hydraulics I S S U E T W E N T Y e i g h t Palm • 2004 23 Q-Kayaks Wave Sport Ruahine Kayaks Eskimo

PADDLE FLOATS TO RESCUE YOU

BILGE PUMPS TO PUMP YOUR BOAT DRY Essential safety equipment for all sea kayakers and open canoeists.

Also great fun in a water fight.

Arnie watch out! $74.95 RRP

BE SEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS SAFETY FLAGS A real recognized risk while enjoying your kayaking is a collision with a larger vessel. The Safety Flag will increase your visibility to other craft extensively. BE SEEN AND BE SAFE. Check out this latest design that simply plug into a rod holder. $49.95 (including rod holder) RRP

PFD (PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICE)

Essential for all single sea kayaks. “This is the spare tyre for kayaks”. $89.96 RRP

WHEELS FOR YOUR KAYAK Make life easy with this essential addition to your kayak.

The Canoe & Kayak Trollies are made of stainless steel so they don’t rust.

Wide wheels - they don`t sink in the sand & a dinky little stand to make loading your kayak, the kids & your fishing gear on the trolly real easy.

KAYAK TROLLY $249 RRP

HEAVY DUTY KAYAK TROLLY $349 RRP

SUN HATS

Day Two have updated 2 of their most popular buoyancy vests.

KIWITEA This popular '1 size fits all' vest has had its front pocket made larger to take even more handy items when heading out on the water.

It also now has a reflective strip on the rear for better visibility in low light paddling.

Available in red, blue or gold. $139 RRP

Sun, sun and more sun. Summer is here and so is the sun gear. This cool hat will help save you from the summer sun. $64.95 RRP

TRI/SEA VEST The most popular vests for multisport, touring and cruising. The rear pocket on this jacket has been made larger to fit much bigger drinks bladders and reflective tape has been put on the top of the vest for better visibility. The front pockets have been made larger too and one of the pockets closes with Velcro to keep your keys and other small items safe in the event of a capsize. Colours, red, blue or gold. Sizes S/M/L. $209 RRP

24

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

BEACH SHOES "Want something a little different at the beach this year?

Available in a wide range of discreet & not-so-discreet colours, Holey Soles are the best, most comfortable, lightweight & downright funky kayak, beach, tramping, hangin'-out shoes you'll find!” $59.95 RRP

DVD LEARNING THE DRY WAY - COFFEE NOT INCLUDED SEAMANSHIP for KAYAKERS A series of instructional DVD’s.

John Dowd, with the help of experienced instructors has released two DVD’s for seakayakers. There will be seven in the series. See page 11 for a review on the first DVD on the series.

“Getting there (and back) - Navigation” This is the second title in the series of seven. It covers practical navigation, ‘rules of the road’, including the use of the compass and GPS. It is designed to provide practical methods for navigating sea kayaks and focuses upon the techniques used by most experienced paddlers. This DVD makes the point that navigation is but one of the essential skills needed for coastal kayaking, and is inextricably entwined with weather and oceanography. Navigating safely calls for a respectful attitude to the sea and sound judgement. While attitude and judgement cannot be taught by watching video, the medium does provide an excellent guide for the experience necessary for true learning. Used in this way, with an incremental approach to increasing difficulty, the techniques shown can be practised until a high level of competence has been achieved.

Each disc has over 50 mins playing time and is available in-store at your Canoe and Kayak shop at an introduction price of $39.95. Postage is an extra $5.

USE YOUR PHONE AT SEA KEEP YOUR BODY DRY The basic jacket come of age! The new jacket from Rasdex for this season uses a textured fabric with open neck and comfortable drawcord waist - just the thing for those not-so-sunny days when you still want to paddle. $225 RRP

Keep your phone free from water, dust and dirt. Waterproof for half an hour to a depth of 1 metre, with a flexible dial surface and goretex audio membrane to allow use without removal from box. Supplied with variable tops to allow room for different phone sizes, with or without antenna. $89.95 RRP

PUTTING YOUR KAYAK ON THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER LIBERTY LOADER Make summer easy with The Liberty Loader: Even a petite lass can load a large sea kayak by herself. $249

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

25

What’s On Summer Kayaking Holiday Program

Fun, Friends & Fitness TOURS

Get your kids into the fun sport of kayaking.

Give them a Summer Kayaking Holiday Program this summer and watch their confidence and skills develop.

During the four-session course your children will be taught in a safe and progressional manner to become capable kayakers and will develop the skills/knowledge and appreciation of their own abilities to be a safe paddler.

This will in turn open up a world of exciting possibilities for them to join you on great outdoor adventures. What an experience for them! Imagine camping and exploring the Whanganui River, sitting around a camp fire at night and creating strong confidence building childhood memories.

This is an opportunity not to be missed if your children or grandchildren would benefit from this, call your local Canoe & Kayak Shop and get them enrolled.

It’s great fun to drift down a river, float up an estuary, paddle to the pub, or explore ‘out of the way’ places.

Whether it’s an afternoon amble, a full day’s frolic or a wicked weekend adventure, we can take you there.

We can provide you with experienced guides, local knowledge, safe up to date equipment and a lot of fun.

SEA KAYAK COURSES

Limited spaces are available and conditions do apply.

Kayak Hire Lake Taupo Open for the summer and by appointment for some paddling fun on stunning Lake Taupo or let us run a Tour for you and your friends and explore the Maori Carvings or the Mighty Waikato River.

Phone Canoe & Kayak on 0800 529256 for details

Kayak Hire Long Bay Regional Park Open on Weekends and by appointment for some paddling fun on the beach or let us run a Tour for you and your friends and explore this beautiful area.

Phone Canoe & Kayak on 09 473 0036 for details

Whanganui River Canoe & Kayak Trips Interested in a great adventure on this Magnificent River?

Introduction to sea kayaking course designed to teach skills necessary to become a technically correct and safe paddler.

Also advanced oceans course: Eskimo rolling: Weather & Navigation: Surfing and Rescue courses.

RIVER KAYAKING/ WHITEWATER COURSES

Give us a call and we will give you a memory of a lifetime.

Canoe & Kayak Taupo

0800 529256

NZKI New Zealand Kayaking Instructors Award Scheme

Become a kayaking Instructor and Guide Get into gear and get qualified!

It’s fun and easy to do. Don’t delay phone

0508 5292569 now to learn more 26

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

Introduction to river kayaking, designed to teach skills necessary to become a technically correct and safe paddler.

Also advanced river kayaking; River rescue; and Eskimo rolling.

Call now to find out more 0508 KAYAKNZ

Logo Competition Doodle, sketch, draw, design your idea of a Logo for the Yakity Yak club Top ten entries win a T-shirt Winner gets a T-shirt and Polar Fleece vest.

Top ten entries to be voted on STV system by each store owner and by each club on February Club night.

Post your entry to: Logo Competition 7/28 Anvil Rd, Silverdale Or email to ruth@canoeandkayak.co.nz Entries must be received by 31 January 2005.

Design needs to be suitable for embroidering on a T-Shirt and a Polar Fleece Vest.

Whitewater Kayaking River releases etc are online at www.rivers.org.nz/events/

Waimakariri Familiarisation trips 2005 8th to the 16th of January It is essential that all first time Coast to Coasters get some paddling time on the Waimakariri prior to race day - it takes out the jitters and makes the whole experience on race day fun-filled rather than fear-filled.

So why not come with us for some great paddling and build that confidence up some more.

We meet 6am in Christchurch and head off to do a leisurely paddle down the Waimakariri, returning to Christchurch at 6pm. During the trip we will work on all aspects of paddling skills along with rapid reading and the re-running of some of the notorious rapids - giving you the confidence on race day to enjoy the river.

Two trips are recommended for the average new multisporter - this will allow you a degree of familiarity for race day.

We supply a Sea Kayak, paddle and deck. Customers supply buoyancy aid, helmet, paddling clothes, throw rope, spare clothing, first aid kit, emergency shelter and food.

The cost is $250 per person for one trip or $450 for two.

Senior Canoe & Kayak Instructors will guide you on a one to four ratio of instructors to customers.

Cancellation details There are no refunds or credits given for cancellation due to weather.

Failure to attend or cancellation within two weeks of booked date will incur a loss of all fees.

Bookings are essential so please ring and book ASAP

0800 529256

River Kayaking Training Package 2005 COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTION DESIGNED TO GIVE YOU THE LEVEL OF SKILL AND CONFIDENCE TO PERFORM AND TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF RACE DAY. WEEKEND ONE: Introduction to White Water, including water confidence, paddling technique, river reading and rescue skills.

WEEKEND TWO: River reading and White Water skills.

You will run your first grade 2 river and continue to build your confidence and skills.

WEEKEND THREE: River running instruction on the fastest line, the best path and consolidating all the other skills learnt during your first two weekends.

Plus lots more.

Call Now 0508 KAYAKNZ for more details ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

27

OUTDOORS WITH

Aspects of Leadership: Letting go of the Leash The roar of Aniwhenua Falls made it hard for people to hear, so I waved the group in tightly around me. Faces reflected a range of emotions, from “Oh my God. Please don’t make me do this” to “Yeah baby, bring it on”. Of the three days they had been paddling, I had spent only one day with them, yet in that time I felt I could assess the competence level of most of the group.

I wanted them to make a decision. A fully informed, carefully thought-out decision, not some rash adrenalinefuelled, spur of the moment ‘I’ll do it if you do it’ thing.

28

ISSUE TWENTY

“Before you decide to do this,” I said, “There’s a few things you need to know”. Then I told them about the student who hit the wall in the chute above the falls and became wedged upside down across the channel. How the instructor jumped in, managed to right the boat and push the student off the waterfall, but then found himself swimming the falls. Without a helmet. How, on another trip, a kayaker had fallen steeply, hit the bottom of the river and lost the skin off his shins when his feet burst past the footpegs. How I’d seen people struggle to swim in the aerated water at the bottom of the falls. But that I had also seen lots of people with a wide range of abilities, go over the falls successfully.

“You need to know that you can get your boat lined up in that slot. And what might happen if you don’t”. And with that I left them to make up their own minds.

eight • 2004

By Ray Hollingsworth

Outdoor leaders are keenly aware that their decisions are formed by their personal experiences, whether adventuring in their own time or instructing novices in the finer points of...whatever. My own judgement has developed through having had experiences, both good and bad, and at some point processing them. John Dewey, the renowned American educator, said “experience plus reflection equals learning”. This is as true today as it was a century ago when he wrote it.

Those who operate professionally teaching in the outdoors will realize the inherent risks in the activities that they instruct or guide. These risks may be managed, but most can not be eliminated - and nor would we want them to be. Coping with danger makes outdoor activities more rewarding.

However, at some point, the controlled situations that we adopt to teach in the outdoors - top rope

climbing, on-track tramping, guided sea kayak trips - must give way to experiences which are less controlled. Students can then benefit from the consequences of their actions, reflect and build their own judgement.

Teaching leadership skills is a continuum, from initial tight control by the teacher, to delegation of tasks and decisions to the group or individuals.

When should we allow the people in our care to take responsibility for their decisions? How do we recognize that they are ready to have more control?

of knowing how they are likely to react in stressful situations; whether they have the technical skill level for the challenge; how experienced they are.

Finally the leader should know that if the shit really does hit the fan, then they would probably be able to help.

In kayaking, how do we know that someone is ready for a harder rapid, a higher grade river? When do we take the leash off and say “It’s your call”?

“When they are ready” is probably the glibbest answer, yet it rings of truth as well. Believing that they can, is as important to a group as the instructor believing that they can. Perhaps a guiding thought for an outdoor leader should be “What sort of experience do I want my clients to have?” As Colin Mortlock pointed out in ‘The Adventure Alternative’, there’s a fine line between peak experience and mis-adventure.

The answer is complex. The leader needs to have an awareness of the group and of the individuals,

Photos by Sam Goodhall & Rob Munro

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

29

ADV E NT U R E P H I LO S O P H Y

The West Coast School of Surf

Mark Jones is a member of the Adventure Philosophy team and Senior Lecturer on AUT’s Outdoor Leadership Programmes.

Mark Jones

Imagine a coastline you almost invariably have all to yourself within an hour of the centre of Auckland.

Great sweeps of sand separated by clifflines; heaving reefs, streaming bull-kelp and foam and softened by a haze of salty mist. I am of course talking about Auckland’s west coast. It is as vast a wilderness as exists anywhere so close to a big city. To ride up and down on an oceanic swell paddling toward a horizon spanning 180 degrees, while gannets drill the sea around one’s boat, is to experience a sense of wildness and expanse rare so close to a big city.

Fur seals bask and bob about next to the islands of Oia and Paratahi. I’ve seen dolphins and sharks on several occasions. Last year 13 sperm whales were beached at Karekare. One day I will see whales. This is a special meeting of land and sea.

It is a zone of untamed beauty- the crash of surf,

30

ISSUE TWENTY

the wheeling gannets, the smell of smashed kelp and guano. It is easy to be lost to the time and space of the open ocean- I’ve never arrived back home on time yet from a trip to The Coast.

Then at last, out beyond the surf-zone- beyond the potential of a spanking for the time being, the ceaseless boom and rumble of the break falling further and further behind.

There is a certain sense, on any day one gets out through the surf, of being allowed to- a concession, not a right- for it is not always possible. Many days of the year the west coast is a grim prospect for sea kayakers. There are some days I have arrived to find the swell bigger than predicted; of a size and form that makes me question my motivation, my reasons for being there at all. Sometimes I turn around. Like any piece of open coast it is master on its day. The breaker zone provides a relentless, tireless, unceasing defence.

Out past the break, alone and free to roam on a sheet of ocean that stretches unobstructed to the coast of Australia.

There are rare days when it lowers its defences and sometimes drops them completely; rare days when you can get out the back without trepidation- rare days indeed. Mostly there is unease, hard stares at the booming break zone, drawing about oneself a bubble of silence and focusing on the immediate- efficient, clinical stowing of gear, and impatiently waiting for the moment to go. Impatient to be rid of the anxiety of what might happen, to deal instead with reality, whatever it might be.

eight • 2004

It is not a place for the faint-hearted, nor is it often a place for the beginner, but it is a magic place. If I had to come up with five rules for enjoying it and avoiding being a statistic in the papers ...

Rule no.1: Treat the surf with respect.

There’s some harsh lessons in store if you don’t.

Sea kayaking into the surf zone is like entering another level of the game. When you start pushing the envelope there’s always a chance things won’t go exactly right and you’re on a slippery slope when things go wrong in the surf zone. All bets are off if you come out of your boat. Don’t anticipate a speedy rescue. It is best not to rely on rescue at all.

Rule no.2: If you wouldn’t swim it, you should think very carefully before you decide to kayak it...

Good Judgement often comes from our bad experiences. Err on the conservative side until you

develop a sense of what you can deal with and what will deal to you. Using rips to get out through the surf is sound practice, but always consider what your options will become if things go badly and you end up in the tide.

Rule no. 3: Learn to Eskimo roll.

In fact don’t just learn how to Eskimo roll but practise it to the point of mastery, so that it works in the surf zone, not just in a pool. Having your boat fitted out with knee and thigh braces can make a huge difference to your control and your ability to stay in your boat when you get trashed by a wave.

Rule no. 4: Make sure everything is shipshape.

Before you leave ensure your hatch covers are on properly, and don’t stow anything on the front deck you don’t want to lose. In big surf, even with strong deck bungies, any stuff on the front deck will go. It also causes unnecessary drag when trying to punch through waves. I carry a split paddle under the rear bungies only. Everything else I may need for the day is on my person or in the cockpit (clipped to something, or otherwise secured).

Make sure there are no loose cords or slack decklines to get your paddle tangled up with in the event of a roll. And finally, ensure your paddle, spray-deck, hatch covers and boat are in sound condition. Dumping surf puts enormous forces on all the above and breakages are expensive (and I’m not talking about dollars).

Rule no.5: Understand surf.

Knowing how surf forms and when it breaks helps you anticipate how it will act and how to best deal with it. Waves arrive in sets, groups of about 4-8 waves. Generally the last waves of a set are the biggest and the size of the biggest waves will vary between sets. Patient observation out to sea will often pay dividends in seeing a pattern to the big sets.

When they enter shallower water, waves slow down, so the distance between them reduces.

They will break when they reach water approximately half as deep as the height of the wave. This can be a beach, bar, reef or other obstruction. Topography affects the surf zone significantly. A beach that gradually becomes shallower will have a broad surf zone as larger sets break further offshore in the deeper water.

A steep beach will have a short break zone as all the waves tend to reach their breaking depth at about the same place.

Waves are affected by tide as well. An outgoing tide will cause waves to steepen and be more likely to break . Also as the tide recedes waves will begin to break where they have not done for several hours, simply because eventually the critical depth for breaking gets broached by the bigger waves. This can catch a paddler out (as can those extra large ones) in areas with shoals.

Usually you can recognise these areas by looking well ahead of where you are, and observing the larger waves breaking, but not always. Charts can enable you to anticipate this potential, and such areas should be given a wide berth.

Local wind will affect surf too. A shore wind tends to produce a spilling surf, while an offshore wind tends to hold the waves up longer causing them break suddenly and often violently as plunging surf. If it looks formidable it generally is.

Rule no.6: Practise!

When you need these skills for real is not the time to discover whether you still have them or not. See rule number 1.

The west Coast is definitely not a place I’d recommend to everyone. In fact it is not a place I would recommend to many people. But for those with the requisite skills and in search of an environment that will sometimes challenge, sometimes invoke awe and always be memorable, the west coast would be at the top of the list.

Have you got a tale to tell and the pictures to prove it?

Do you want some tips on how to get it in print?

See www.canoeandkayak.co.nz for our “Contributors’ Guidelines”.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

31

P H OTO E S S AY

Yakity Yak

by Warren Kennedy, Guy Folster and Ruth E. Henderson

North Shore Yakity Yak club spent t h e i r Mi d Wi n te r C h ri stm a s a t A d m i n i stra ti o n B ay, M o tu ta p u .

Saturday night’s pot-luck dinner had an over abundance of roast chickens, and some strange salads; some games were particularly athletic, some bruising (ever played musical chairs to a type of truth or lies quiz, with boisterous paddlers?); presents were fought over, the most desirable prize being an orange brollie! The paddling? It was perfect.

32

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

Retail, Courses, Hire & Yakity Yak Club

Has your group or club had a particularly memorable and photogenic moment or trip?

Select your top 10 - 20 photographs, put them on a CD together with a few words and post to Ruth at NZ Kayak magazine, 7/28 Anvil Road, Silverdale and they could end up here.

07 847 5565 Positions for staff available ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

33

YA K I T Y YA K C LU B

Mad Yakkers Tea Party

by Sharon Torckler

A recently qualified leader organised his first kayak trip. He planned a Mad Yakkers Tea Party, launching at Takapuna, destination Browns Bay Reef. Beginners and the less fit were able to launch and join the group at Mairangi Bay. There was a light head on breeze. Nothing too daunting - good muscle toning conditions. We all made it except for one lassie who had left from Takapuna and had managed to feed the fish on the way. She decided to land at Mairangi Bay and let the ‘night before antics’ wear off.

We landed on the reef. Out came the weird and wacky hats, the pirates flag and the Tea Party began. A wee bit windy, but there was no rain

(and that means a great day for Aucklanders).

With bellies fed and everyone refuelled we headed back to Takapuna. Everyone was looking forward to an easy paddle home and some fun riding a few of the waves. As we left, Phil freshened up in the shallow water around the reef. Dunking number one.

All was going well... till... one of the newbies who was paddling with one of the oldbies tipped out.

To get the attention of another paddler, Ruth blew on her whistle - three sharp times. She then helped the newbie back into his kayak. This was successfully accomplished in textbook style despite the lumpy seas - a perfect co-operation between the rescued and the rescuer. However, while she hadn’t managed to get the attention of the fellow kayaker, an on-shore looker thought someone was in distress and immediately

phoned the Coast Guard. Just remember ‘Big Brother’ is always watching.

Meanwhile the rest of us, oblivious to the action up front, diverted to drop off some paddlers before linking up with Ruth and Co. We were enjoying the waves and the company, when two Coast Guard boats screamed towards us. Not one but two boats! They asked “Who blew the whistle?” “Was anyone in strife?’” A fellow kayaker turned round to see where the Coast Guard Boat had gone - and ooops, out he fell!!

Well, being Yakity Yakkers and knowing the drill, he was back in his boat quick smart although missing a paddle, and a shoe that someone retrieved for him. All was well, we thought, but not for long. 2 secs later he was in again - just wanted to perfect that re-entry. And, being Yakity Yakkers and knowing the drill, he was back in his

A Sit-on-Top for the family. Able to seat an adult and a small child. It is easy to paddle and is very stable. Easily carried by one adult or two kids.

SQUIRT

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

15 kg 780 mm 2.7 m $469

Available at leading kayak stores.

34

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

boat, this time with his paddle and shoe. Thank you Coast Guard for being on the ball, and giving some Yakity Yakkers a chance to show you their skills.

We ended a great day’s entertainment and re-entry practice wetting the whistle at The Copper Room (for future ref R’toto’s is closed Sunday afternoon).

Thanks Chris Dench for organising the Mad Yakkers Tea party. We hope the antics of your fellow kayakers haven’t put you off organising another one.

Subed’s note 1. Chris did advertise “All eccentricities welcomed and encouraged “ - so he should have expected ‘attention seekers’, whistle blowers, and phantom kayakers...

Subed’s note 2. Ian would you please buy your wife a VHF for Christmas, then she won’t have to “whistle Charlie up.”

Photos by Guy Folster and Ruth E. Henderson

ISSUE TWENTYeight • 2004

35

S E A K AYA K I N G

Weather or not! Stewart Island

by Bryan Whiteaker After a sea kayaking skills course run

by Peter from Canoe & Kayak, Taranaki we were confident of tackling a kayak trip in Stewart Island. Innes Dunstan, the person we had arranged to hire our kayaks from, in Half Moon Bay was happy to know we were not total novices.

Before our trip the weather had been shocking with overnight lows of minus 8 in Invercargill, and southerlies gusting to 80 knots straight off the south pole. Pictures of snow covered farms and closed roads on the news, provided amusement for our friends and trepidation for us.

John Bonn, a friend of Colin’s met us at Invercargill airport and with true Southlander hospitality invited us to his home and lent us his 4WD the next day. On the Bluff to Stewart Island ferry we met Sebastian, a Frenchman on holiday who teamed up with us.

We stayed that night, at Innes Backpackers in Half Moon Bay. He briefed us on kayaking in Patterson Inlet, and helped us come up with a workable schedule, that included a bit of fishing and hunting. We had bought most of our supplies from Invercargill; we shouldn’t have bothered as the shop at Half Moon bay stocks all you might need.

We paddled from Golden Bay, exploring all the way to Millars Beach Shelter. Lots of mussels in Paterson Inlet provided a feed for lunch. This part of the inlet offers nice easy paddling in sheltered water with an old whaler’s base to visit.

Next day Fred’s Hut proved a great place to stay. It has a wonderful view over the inlet.

Sliding effortlessly over water so black it could be oil, the following morning paddling to Rakeahua we saw five seals, two of them fishing. There was quite a bit of bird life: gulls, molly hawks, bush hawks, south island shags, kingfishers and on the track to the hut, tui.

Rain turned to storm, but the hut had a good supply of coal and wood. We were cosy.

It was hailing when we returned to Fred’s hut. We saw more seals, but they didn’t stay around. The wind picked up and pushed us along. A squall hit and we were surfing. We made good time!

The next day from Fred’s to Abraham’s Hut we try to shelter behind a small point from wind gusts over thirty knots, white horses and spray. But there was no beach and we couldn’t get out of our kayaks. We agreed to go around Dynamite Point, set off at forty-five degrees to the waves, and turned so that the waves and wind would push us around the point.

Halfway across to the Point, I looked back and saw that Colin and Sebastian were still at our departure point. Round the Point, I began fishing, and after a while Colin joined me. His rudder had got stuck in the upright position and he’d turned back to fix it. He told me that Sebastian, nearly capsized twice, and had turned back. We waited

LIGHTWEIGHT PADDLES Blown away by the Fitz-Roy Mountains in Southern Argentina.

36

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

Cobra paddles are high grade, lightweight and multipurpose with the weight starting from 1000g.

Blades are made from glass filled polypropelene.

They are among the lightest available. Your choice of red, white, yellow, lime and mango.

Blades come in 3 sizes 160mm, 180mm and 200mm and along with paddle lengths, are available in different sizes to suit paddler size and activity.

All paddles have a limited lifetime warranty to give you and your family many happy and hassle free years of paddling.

Available at leading kayak stores.

for him. Eventually Colin climbed up high enough to spot Sebastian, and saw him still at the other side of Dynamite Point. After a hot drink and feed we climbed up into the bush to reach Sebastian. But before we got to him he paddled across by himself. We continued on to Abraham’s Hut. Next day, we paddled into the inlet, rafted up and let the rising wind push us along. We found a place to camp in Big Glory Bay and then looked around the salmon farm.

On our last day, enroute to Golden Bay we went around the back of Ulva Island to keep out of the wind. The island is rat, cat and stoat free so there are lots of birds. Wekas were all over the place. It’s well worth a visit.

Innes Dunstan picked us up at Golden Bay, for a day’s rest and cleanup at the backpackers. To finish off a great trip we tramped over to Mason Bay where we saw kiwi out at night and managed to bag a whitetail deer.

Photos by Sebastian

Kayak Shops

Canoe & Kayak Ltd is ready to open Licensed Operations in new centres and has the going concern Auckland Canoe & Kayak, 502 Sandringham Road, Sandringham for sale.

Phone: 09 473 0036 Peter Townend Managing Director, Canoe & Kayak Ltd and I’ll be glad to have a chat.

All approaches will be dealt with in confidence.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

37

S E A K AYA K I N G

Getting the drift of the Paddling Game

by Lindsay Wright

38

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

KAYAKING - the people who do it, want you to try it “Give it a go,” they say, “it’s so cool and it makes you feel really good.”

“Come for a paddle,” a seasoned kayaker says. He skips into his boat and smirks while you squeeze into a waterborne wedge of plastic that was originally designed for someone half your size.

When you’re seated and wobbling like a stick insect on a plate of jelly, your kayaking mentor digs a paddle into the water and skims away towards the horizon. “See...it’s easy,” he calls back over his shoulder.

Meanwhile you’re stuck fast in the muddy river shallows, struggling to lever your way into deep water without levitation or tugboat.

It’s a basic law of physics that if you move weight from one side of a narrow floating object to the other side, that object will want to turn over.

Kayaks are narrow floating objects. As the top half of your body does the paddling part, the bottom half is forced by your sense of balance to compensate so you end up doing a jerky sitting down sort of hula dance. So it goes: paddle...wobble...paddle...wobble...and so forth.

By now your paddling mate is a speck on the horizon, the rhythmic flash of the sun on his paddle blades a galling reminder of the way this sport should be played. After a few deep breaths, and a shot of bravado, you get on top of the wobbling problem.

The next challenge is the flick of the wrist. Some wily Eskimo, before the advent of outboard motors and snow scooters, figured that the scalloped bit on one end of the paddle would work better fixed at 90 degrees to the other one.

Perhaps wrist twisting was an ancient Eskimo rite of passage.

You pivot your body from the waist up like the trim, leotarded ladies in the television aerobics programmes do. A warm feeling floods through your body, flowing from your head down to the tips of your toes - this is a full workout.

Finally you’ve got it...stroke...stroke....the kayak forges ahead, without feeling that you’ll turn turtle with each stroke, or go round in circles. If you put a bit of pressure on one cheek of your bum the boat will slowly turn that way. An extra bit of grunt on one side of the paddle has the same affect. Hey, this is cool. The dread of making an absolute idiot out of oneself dissipates.

The spot on the horizon gets closer until you can pick out someone leaning on his paddle and drifting in the sun, watching and waiting for you to catch up.

By now your upper body aches, but there’s not far to go. Sweat drools from under your hatband and the world beyond your sunglasses blurs. The kayak moves like a sodden log. Will you ever catch up?

Water dribbles down the paddles and soaks your tee shirt, but slowly the other kayak gets bigger and bigger. You can pick out details; the bright red flotation vest, the black handle of the paddles, the dinky little hatches, and the face under the broad sunhat, the sticker on the side which says “Cruiser” or “EzyRider.”

About 20 metres away now. Control your breathing...relax; nice regular strokes on the paddle...coast the last few metres...work hard on a nonchalant approach despite throbbing arms and pulsing head...and a numbness in your bum from the form fit (somebody else’s form) fibreglass seat. Resist the impulse to lie on your back and kick your legs in the air. Coast to a halt, a metre off the other kayak.

“See,” the other paddler says,” you’ve got the hang of it now - follow me...and suddenly you can. The other kayak doesn’t “disappear over the horizon,” you cruise side by side, paddle for paddle and your arms don’t feel like they’ll drop off at the shoulders.

You relax and enjoy the scenery. Birds stop foraging to watch you glide past; the light sparkles on the gently rippling water, trees are high along the riverbanks. The kayak coasts effortlessly through the water and you feel that you’d like to stop and hug yourself.

Open 7 days 8.30am - 6.00pm

You should give it a go - it’s so cool and it makes you feel really good.

Photo by Ruth E. Henderson

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

39

W H I T E WAT E R

K AYA K I N G

The Rangitopuni

by Sam Goodall and Rob Munro

The Auckland region isn’t exactly known for raging whitewater, so for adrenaline junkies there was only one thing to do, EXPLORE! We had heard rumours of a paddleable river in the Riverhead area, and the Topo maps agreed. We waited for something that we had often experienced over the winter, RAIN! We didn’t have to wait long! Next morning we were ready nice and early. The river level looked promising.

Two keen, but slightly cautious paddlers boofed over the small drop at the put in. The river had many willows and was narrow. We had to be careful, getting out regularly to check potential danger spots. We found a few fun drops, and an excellent play hole at the get out. Unfortunately it was home to a huge tree, which we decided could be easily removed.

The next day that tree, and many others, was dragged from the river by the tree removal specialists, Rob, Sam and Marcel.

The river stayed high for a month, so it became a regular haunt. We spent a lot of time playing, and a little bit more on trees! If anyone is interested in flows needed and get outs etc, please contact sam@canoeandkayak.co.nz

40

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

41

K AYA K

FISHING

A guides day off

by Marty Benson It all started on the Friday night when some clients never showed up, I was disappointed but then I thought ‘I’ll still go and have a day off.’

Saturday morning I got myself ready: grabbed my fishing rod, snorkel gear and just a little bit of bait (10 pillies), a few peanut butter sandwiches, 2 litres of water, an apple and I’m ready.

Then the phone rings, and my mate wants to go for a fish in his boat. As a hard-core land-base fisho I turned him down, and he said “You’re mad, you do that for a job” come with me and put your feet up. “Thanks for the offer Darren, but I can’t help myself, the freedom of a kayak and just dropping over for a dive is just irresistible, it’s bloody fantastic, then I can pull up somewhere for a fish.” “Yeah well, good on ya, you’re one of the maddest bastards I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. I hope you enjoy yourself,” I didn’t know how to take that comment. Am I really that crazy about fishing? Well, after those quick few seconds of serious thought I was marching out the door. I’d told my partner where I was going and my E.T.A. I got to my destination and it was a perfect morning, no wind and the sun was booming down.

I unloaded all my gear, packed my kayak then dragged it down to the water’s edge. I strapped on my helmet and took another look at the kayak.

Luckily I noticed my bung was undone. Boy was I glad I had doubled checked.

There was about a half metre swell rolling onto the beach with a weather forecast of 20 knots to pick up in the afternoon. She’ll get a little sloppy, I told myself.

I launched my kayak. My timing was a little off. The first wave broke on me. Oh well ya get that. I paddled for a while, and a pod of dolphins joined me - sounds good but they actually scared me.

They came up from behind and blew right beside me; my heart felt like it came out my throat. They stayed with me for a while darting underneath, jumping in front of my bow, a couple of belly flops then they went their own way.

The water was perfect: I could see 6 - 10 m. There was a gentle breeze ruffling the water’s mirror look. I found some good looking territory, threw my homemade anchor out then put on my mask & flippers and over I went. I dove down to a nice looking crevasse with a little sand gutter in front of it. It looked like a perfect place for a cray. Upside down I peered into this crevasse. Spotting the tail of a huge eagle ray didn’t do my heart any good. I left him undisturbed. A little further the fish were everywhere, the dear old red moki, a few leather jackets, some big blue maomao with parore hanging around in little groups and the elusive snapper at a distance. I saw a something big but it was too fast to identify. A little school of baby trevally followed me around, so I grabbed a couple of kina and broke them open to give the little fellows a feed.

Back on my kayak I pulled up the anchor and paddled further up the beautiful coast. When I found a good looking rock formation, I jumped back in and started to hunt for a cray or a paua.

The first dive I found a nice nest of 10 crays sitting

FISH ‘N DIVE

on the edge of deep crack. I looked carefully and decided I only had one chance before they would disappear into the crack. I resurfaced, sucked in some more air and went back down. I lined up a nice buck; he had two smaller ones just behind him also on both sides. I figured they should slow him down when I go for the snatch and grab. Yep I was right, got him by the horns - he certainly was a nice fish about 2-3kg, so into the hatch of my kayak he went.

I had noticed some paua near the crays, so I went back and spotted two good size pauas amongst a few smaller ones. A quick measure (on my knife), and they went into hatch. I picked up the anchor, swam some more, and found two more paua.

About two or three hours had passed since I left the beach. I could feel the kayak get a burst of energy every now and then. The wind was getting up - not much time left I was telling myself (wind kayak waves rocks, equals recipe for a disaster). I a found little rock which looked like someone had put it there. About 3m round it was sitting by itself.

I had a look. It was full of crays. I grabbed a nice buck and on the way up a huge kingie swam past me at arm’s length. Once again coming from behind, it really got my heart pumping. I got to the surface and gasped for air, that kingie had taken the last bit of oxygen out of me. I have never had a kingie swim so close before. I was thinking maybe he was on a hunt for kahawai himself.

Anyway that was enough for me.

I paddled off to find a nice rock ledge to fish from.

The wind was about 15 knots, forecast to reach 20 or more. I paddled closer to home. A head wind is not a nice way to end a day!

I found a good looking spot, landed and started

The ultimate fishing/diving kayak from Cobra Kayaks. A large well is located in the stern and holds up to three tanks.

There is one centrally located seat and a smaller companion seat near the bow. It can also be fitted with an optional motor bracket for an electric trolling or small outboard engine.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Winter fishing! 23lb Schnapper caught off Taranaki coast near White Cliffs by Nigel Legg

42

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

25.85 kg 914 mm 3.81 m From $999

(hatches & accessories not included)

Available at leading kayak stores.

to fish. I noticed a boil up further along the coast.

After a half hour or so it was very quiet, I had eaten my sandwiches and decided to catch a kahawai from my kayak on the way home.

I paddled to the boil up. It was pretty choppy with the wind rising. I figured two baits only, cast a pilly into the birds and bang! A screaming run, ‘What a kahawai’ I thought, then the gas really came on.

‘Shit this isn’t a kahawai, must be a kingie or a big snapper.’ Man this fish started towing me out to no-mans-land. I was starting to worry. If the wind gets up even more I’ll be in deep custard. Well, the fish decides to swim back to land half hour or so later - I had a very nice kingie at my side. NOW WHAT THE **** DO I DO? He swam round, and round in big circles. The half metre swell is now one metre plus chop. Rebounding waves from the rocks made it very rough. I figured I’d shove my hand down its throat and pull out its gill or something like that. I could see the hook in the corner of its mouth, I couldn’t use the line as it was 10kg mainline no trace. I lined the fish up to swim towards me, lifted my rod behind my head and wham, I shoved my hand in its mouth clenched something and flipped it onboard. I almost went straight over the other side.

Wrestling this 50lb kingie was a nightmare. Its tail smashed my poor boat (well it sounded like it). I got my knife out, still trying to keep the balance of the kayak while clenching my rod under my arm with the reel under the water. My paddle is under the kayak attached by its bungee cord. I’ve got

blood pissing out everywhere and the kingie is now twitching his last moments, banging with his tail. The damn rocks are just behind me, the kingie settles down and I paddle away from the danger zone. I couldn’t do anything with the kingie except leave him on my lap and paddle home.

With a “Yaaahooooo” I paddled back. A lot of water was breaking over the boat, washing the blood into the sea so I dug in, in case anything else wanted to give me a fright. A shark would be all I needed! to share my kayak or kingie. Getting closer to shore I watched the sets. Well there were no sets. It was a mess. So I just went for it. With an extra 50lbs closer to the front I figured I could get dumped in which case I’ll just hold the kingie and

Sea

ks

kaya

the boat will get washed up. Well, I surfed a good wave, the bow went under and I thought this is it, but it came out. Then the wave broke white water everywhere. But, I still was in control!!! Side on surf back to shore, and then I tipped over. It was only knee deep, I just over-balanced. Boy, I was happy to be on land. What an awesome day; two huge crays, a feed of paua and a good kingie.

The lesson I learnt was to be prepared for kayak fishing next time. Another tip is my anchor - it is no. 8 wire and lead. If any problems occur the prongs can bend. The thrills and spills of little adventures make life so much more interesting...get out there!

ED. Note: Going North? Give Marty a call. You are guaranteed lots of laughs. Ph: 09-409-8445.

Recreatio

n

Fish

ing

Multisport ak iti Y k a b Y Clu

Professional Advice & Service ite Wh

es

s ur

Hire

Tou r

s

er Wat

Co

WHITE WATER PHOTOGRAPH BY B HIGH PRODUCTIONS 0274 322 618

We are here to hit the mark!

Unit 6, 631 Devon Rd. Waiwakaiho, New Plymouth.

Ph: 06 769 5506 Fax: 06 769 5507 Email: canoekayak@maxnet.co.nz Open 6 days 8.30am - 5.30pm www.canoeandkayak.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

43

Press Releases

Safe Sea Kayaking Brochure Launched

To help first time kayak buyers, in October 2004 KASK launched a glossy brochure titled a “Basic Guide to Safe Sea Kayaking”. With content from KASK members and a grant from WSNZ for printing, the brochure aims to encourage safe and enjoyable sea kayaking. Both organizations are aiming to have this brochure included with every new sea kayak sold in New Zealand, available at all retail outlets and wherever sea kayaking instruction courses or guided trips are run.

kayak companies led to a flood of orders faxed to Water Safety; a most encouraging start with summer fast approaching and what is apparent as a steady growth in the retail market for plastic kayaks and sit on tops.

The following pages list basic kayak and equipment terms, what clothing should be worn in winter or in summer, and what emergency signalling devices should be carried. Necessary skills both before launching and on the water are noted. Contact details for KASK are listed with relevant and informative websites.

or email orders to: wsnz@watersafety.org.nz

Bulk brochure orders are available at no charge from Water Safety NZ. Fax: (04) 801 9599 Via the website: www.watersafety.org.nz The 2005 KASK Forum, a gathering of paddlers from throughout New Zealand, is planned for Easter at Anakiwa in the Marlborough Sounds.

Further forum information will be available from the website: www.kask.co.nz Paul Caffyn, Publications Officer, KASK

An initial KASK mail out to over 80 commercial sea

More camping facilities for sea kayakers Sea kayakers have welcomed the news that the Department of Conservation is to increase the number of campsites for sea kayakers.

After almost 12 months of public consultation and evaluation of public comments, the Department of Conservation has published a series of reports on future recreation opportunities. Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers, Vincent Maire, says that sea kayakers in the northern part of the country will be pleased to hear that the department is to expand the number of coastal camp sites.

“KASK made submissions to the Northland, Auckland and Waikato conservancies. While not all of our suggestions were taken up, a significant number of our ideas have either been acted on or are under consideration,” he says.

In the Bay of Islands kayakers will have access to a proposed 22-bunk hut at Deep Water Cove, and the hut at Peach Cove at Bream Head is to be expanded.

“Deep Water Cove is an ideal stopping off point for a trip around Cape Brett. It’s a shame the hut won’t be complemented by a low impact campsite at Whangamumu Harbour, which is the other end of this journey, but perhaps the department may keep this in mind for the future,” says Vincent.

Auckland’s many sea kayakers will soon have access to a campsite at Boulder Bay on the northern side of Rangitoto and a new hut is proposed for Motuora Island. Of particular interest to the more adventuresome sea kayakers is the news that camping is now permitted at Miners Cove and Rangiwhakaea Bay at the northern end of Great Barrier Island.

“These two bays mark the start and end points of a long day circumnavigating the northern end of the island. This is an area for experienced sea kayakers and the two five-tent sites now make this journey a more safe and achievable option,” says Vincent. Both the Auckland and Waikato

14th ThermaTech HEAD2HEAD Now in its fourteenth year, Head2Head has a well earned reputation for being a challenging course that puts the best of Auckland’s wild places on display. From North Head on the Manukau Harbour to North Head on the Waitemata Harbour, individuals and three person teams race all out, chasing Steve Gurney’s course record of just under five hours. Others will simply aim to complete the course and enjoy their journey of discovery, through some of Auckland’s surprisingly wild places. The 90 kilometre course begins with a 13km run from Paratutae Island at the Manukau Harbour entrance, along the wild west coast then climbing steeply up the Omanawanui Track through lush bush before

44

ISSUE TWENTY

Sunday 12 December 2004

descending to Huia. From Huia competitors face a 58km cycle through the spectacular Waitakere Ranges following the Scenic Drive.There are several challenging climbs for the riders before reaching the 389 metre high point, then a swift descent down to the kayak put-in point at Christmas Beach on Herald Island. The 19km paddle follows down Auckland Harbour, tracking under the Greenhithe and Harbour bridges and around historic North Head, to complete the course at Cheltenham Beach, Devonport.

Contact Alan Nelson - Race Director.

Ph.(09) 5851970, (025) 821562 (on race-day).

Email:nelson.as@clear.net.nz, www.head2head.net.nz

eight • 2004

conservancy reports acknowledge the need to provide more facilities for sea kayakers.

In Auckland, the department is exploring ways of meeting the needs of sea kayakers wishing to paddle from Auckland to Coromandel by establishing a basic campsite at the western end of Waiheke Island.

“This is a two-day trip and the Firth of Thames should only be crossed in ideal conditions. Sea kayakers have been calling for a small campsite on the eastern end of Waiheke Island for a number of years, and KASK welcomes the departments interest in helping us overcome this problem,” adds Vincent.

The Waikato conservancy is to establish a low impact site on Mahurangi Island off Hahei, and in its report notes the effect recent land subdivision trends and closure of private and Territorial Land Authority campsites, is having on sea kayaking around the peninsula.

Kayak Books The Frozen Coast - Sea Kayaking the Antarctic Peninsula The team from Adventure Philosophy; Graham Charles, Mark Jones, Marcus Waters write a gripping account of their great adventure and give a fascinating insight into one of the most extreme sea kayak expeditions ever undertaken: an 850 kilometre journey through the freezing waste of ice, rock and ocean of the inhospitable Antarctic Peninsula coast.

The photography is stunning, the words captivating and inspirational. RRP $39.95.

Sea Kayaking - A Manual for Long-Distance Touring The author, John Dowd, is a New Zealander living in Canada. John paddled his first homemade kayak in the Hauraki Gulf when he was fourteen. Besides extensive cruising in the South Pacific, he is the founder of Ecomarine in Vancouver, the best-known sea kayaking retailer, with rental and instruction activities. His first manual was published in 1981. It proved so popular that four updated editions have been released since. The book is an inspiration to all sea kayakers, regardless of skill levels achieved.

In addition to chapters on traditional topics such as equipment, seamanship, and planning an expedition: there are ones on hazards, camping and food gathering, first aid, survival situations, and sea kayaking for people with disabilities.

Well illustrated with photographs and sketches.

The recommended retail price is $29. Canoe and Kayak shops are selling John Dowd’s book for the special price in-store of $19.95. Postage is an extra $5.

NEW ZEALAND KAYAK MAGAZINE’S BUYERS GUIDE RECREATIONAL KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

KAYAKS

34 kg 83 cm 4.70m From $1349

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

17 kg 68 cm 2.8 m $819

ACADIA 470 A great fun family boat with plenty of free board allowing for

ACADIA 280 A light easy to use family kayak. Enjoyable paddling for the

a heavy load. Excellent for sheltered water exploring. Paddles quickly and has excellent stability. Dry storage compartment.

whole family in sheltered waters.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

21.77 kg 597 mm 5.046 m From $1995

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

23.5 kg 62 cm 4.5m $1360

EXPEDITION is designed to go fast. It is built to accelerate quickly and get

SWIFT The swift is an easy handling and stable sit-on-top, with a hull

to its top speed in a short period of time. This boat has lots of storage and is ideal for any paddler interested in performance touring, sea kayaking and long distance cruising.

shape similar to that of a sit-in kayak to give it greater speed. The standard Swift comes rigged with a rudder and storage compartments, making it the ideal craft for those longer trips or a day out fishing beyond the breakers.

Weight: 22.68 kg Width: 711 mm Length: 4.55 m Price: $1195 (x A hatch and tank straps incl.)

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

27 kg 750 mm 3.46 m $910

TOURER This kayak has it all, even an adjustable leg length rudder

ESCAPADE Great general purpose kayak for fishing, diving and having

system. The low profile hull of the Cobra Tourer cuts down on windage, enabling paddlers to maintain high speed and straight tracking with easy handling in all conditions. The integrated keel provides stability and efficiency.

fun in the sun.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

45

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

RECREATIONAL KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

18.18 kg 790 mm 3.43 m From $895

THE EXPLORER is ideal for fishing, surfing and exploring and one of the driest ‘Sit-ons’ you will find. Great hatches for storing your goodies Weight: Width: Length: Price:

17.27 kg 710 mm 3.10 m From $649

SPECIFICATION

We recommend that everybody who uses a kayak should participate in a training course. This will ensure your enjoyment and safety. Ask at your nearest kayak shop.

25.90 kg 915 mm 3.81 m From $1095

THE TANDEM ‘two person’ is ideal for fishing, surfing and exploring with great hatches for storing your adventure equipment. Now available with three person option. It is often used by one person.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

KAYAKS

Weight: 25.85 kg Width: 914 mm Length: 3.81 m Price: From $999 (hatches & accessories not included)

FISH ‘N DIVE The ultimate fishing/diving kayak. A large well is located in the stern and holds up to three tanks. There is one centrally located seat and a smaller companion seat near the bow. It can also be fitted with an optional motor bracket for an electric trolling or small outboard engine.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

15 kg 780 mm 2.7m $469

THE PLAY is great for the paddler who wants a fun fast surf and flat water kayak. Kids love this Sit-on as it is not too wide for them to paddle and yet very stable.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

34 kg 840 mm 4.75 m $1459

SQUIRT A Sit-on-Top for the family. Able to seat an adult and a small child. It is easy to paddle and is very stable. Easily carried by one adult or two kids.

Weight: Width: Length Price:

SYNCHRO A fantastic two person cruising kayak which is stable and fast.

23 kg 750 mm 3.3 m $770

It has plenty of storage and great features to make your adventures fun.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

25 kg 780 mm 4.01 m $1039

ESCAPEE Probably the closest you will come to finding one kayak that does it all. Surfing, fishing, snorkelling.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

SWING Flat water cruising, well appointed with gear storage inside. Also

22.7 kg 810 mm 3.12 m $889

includes an optional extra pod that detaches, which is great for carrying your fishing gear to your favourite spot. The pod can also be used as a seat.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

14 kg 700 mm 3m $710

TORRENT FREEDOM Great for the surf and the river with awesome manoeuvrability. Excellent finish.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

32 kg 830 mm 4.2 m $1160

SPRITE ONE A kayak for the family, able to seat an adult and child.

Easy paddling, adjustable seat back and clip down hand grabs, paddles well in a straight line and is very stable. Suits flat water conditions.

DELTA DOUBLE Fun for the whole family at the beach or lake.

Plenty of room and great stability.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

46

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

RECREATIONAL KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Lots of fun this summer at the beach. (Hot surfer!)

17.2 kg 736 mm 2.9 m $819

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

21kg 770 mm 2.5 m $630

WHIZZ A great multi-purpose family boat for big kids and small kids alike.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

KAYAKS

36.36 kg 915 mm 5.03 m From $1295

THE TRIPLE is an excellent performing family Sit-on. The centre seat area is dry with heaps of room so the kids can move and fidget without causing the adults any concern. The centre space also allows for storage of heaps of camping equipment.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

MINNOW ONE Small, light, easy to paddle fun for the whole family.

Suitable for all ages. Suits flat water conditions.

32 kg 820 mm 4.5 m From $1170 to $1590

SPRITE TWO Two person cruiser, comes with dry gear storage. Fast, Weight: Width: Length: Price:

16 kg 685 mm 2.92 m $795

COBRA STRIKE A Wave Ski which the whole family can enjoy. Fantastic in the surf, it‘s a fast and manoeuvrable sit-on-top.

stable and easy to use. Adjustable back rest. Suits flat water conditions.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

20 kg 710 mm 2.98 m $849

Five O Amazing surf sit on top fun and agile and performance orientated.

LAKE AND SEA KAYAKS Weight: Width: Length: Price:

35 kg 800 mm 4.87 m $2579

CONTOUR TANDEM 485 This double Sea Kayak is an ideal day tourer

Your height, weight and paddling ability will affect the type of kayak best suited for your needs. Ask for advice at your specialist kayak shop.

with the easy ability to do those weekend camping expeditions. It handles well, is fun to paddle and has well appointed accessories.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

ECO NIIZH XLT This upgraded model is proving a hit with its new lighter weight and some excellent features. We now have a plastic double sea kayak that is great to use for all those amazing expeditions and adventures.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Weight: Width: Length: Price: Tourer Expedition

45 kg 760 mm 5.64 m $3379

20 kg 675 mm 3.7 m $1099 $1429

ACADIA 370 Flat water cruising, well appointed, a nifty adjustable backrest, an access hatch in the back which is great for carrying your extra gear.

27 kg 62 cm 480cm $2039

Weight: Width: Length: Basic Excel Excel lightweight

Std 22kg 610 mm 4.4 m $1410 $1750 $1920

CONTOUR 480 Is a roomy, manoeuvrable, easy to handle boat. A

TUI EXCEL A versatile touring kayak for lake, river and sea. Stability,

channelled hull provides outstanding tracking that helps keep you on course. Its upswept, flared bow makes crossing rough water a breeze.

speed and easy tracking enable an enjoyable day’s paddling. A larger cockpit allows for easier entry and exit.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

47

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

LAKE AND SEA KAYAKS SPECIFICATION

KAYAKS

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price: Lightweight

28 kg 610 mm 4.85 m $2199

ECO IPIZO 490 The ECO IPIZO 490 is a truly modern kayak that is as unique as they come. A small keel ridge that runs the length of the hull, plus a raked stern adds several inches to the waterline, this translates into speed, efficiency and superb tracking. A fast sheltered water sea kayak.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

KAYAKS

27 kg 610 mm 5.3 m $2550 $2820

TASMAN EXPRESS Responds to rough conditions. Its low profile and flared bow enable it to perform well in adverse conditions. It is designed to give the paddler maximum comfort, with adjustable footrests, backrest, side seat supports and optional thigh brace.

22 kg 610 mm 5.3 m $3980

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Std 26 kg 590 mm 5.4 m $2559

TASMAN EXPRESS KEVLAR As per the plastic model, the kevlar Tasman Express responds to rough conditions but its decreased weight, and increased stiffness, gives even better performance.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Width: Length: Price:

storage, great features and the most comfortable seat your butt will ever meet.

26kg 640mm 4.5 m $1889

CONTOUR 450 This kayak is designed for day tripping and light overnight expeditions. It’s great fun to paddle and handles easily.

Weight:

ECOBEZHIG 540 An enjoyable sea kayak, fast and nimble with huge

23kg kevlar/carbon 600 mm 5.6 m $4110 Kevlar

Weight: Width: Length: Price: Lightweight

25 kg 610 mm 4.8 m $2250 $2520

PENGUIN Has all the features for multi-day kayaking with ease of handling in all weather conditions. With great manoeuvrability this kayak is suitable for paddlers from beginner to advanced.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

22kg 600 mm 5.4 m $3960 Kevlar

TORRES A fast and stable sea kayak capable of handling the extreme expeditions. Huge storage and lots of leg room.

SOUTHERN SKUA Fast, stable sea kayak. Great in the rough and in the wind. Well appointed for expedition and day trips.

Weight: 22kg Width: 590 mm Length: 5m Price: $3110 (Freight charges may apply)

CHALLENGE 5 Slightly larger volume than the Sequel and lighter at 22kg.

A fast and stable touring sea kayak well appointed and featuring a great rudder/steering system.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

34kg 820 mm 4.5 m $1690

WANDERER EXCEL A stable fun kayak which is easy to handle. This is an enjoyable kayak for all the family.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

26kg 580 mm 4.93 m $2099 North Island $2195 South Island

SEQUEL Fast, light, touring kayak suits beginners through to advanced paddlers. The hull design allows for great handling in rough water. Well appointed and ideally suitable for multisport training.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

BREEZE Fully appointed sea kayak. Light weight and agile with a long waterline giving good speed in a smaller sea kayak. Designed with the lighter paddler in mind. Suitable for day or overnight trips. Fun in a compact package.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

48

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

22kg 600 mm 4.5 m $1785 North Island $1903 South Island

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

MULTI SPORT AND RACING SEA KAYAKS KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION Weight: Width: Length: Price:

11kg 450mm 5.65m $2995

REBEL This new fast funky Ruahine Kayak is designed for the smaller paddler in the 50 to 70kg range.

It is 5.65 metres long, which is half way between the length of the Swallow and the Opus and it has a maximum beam of 450mm.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

16.5 kg 500mm 6.4 m $3495 kevlar & carbon $2995 fibreglass

OCEAN X This Racing Sea Kayak was designed specifically for the “Length of New Zealand Race” and built around the safety criteria drawn up for that race. The Ocean X is also very suitable for kayak racing in the many harbours, estuaries and lakes of New Zealand and lends itself well to the kayak sections of many multisport races.

12.5 kg 450mm 5.89m $2995

OPUS This kayak is for the competitive multisporter who has mastered the mid range kayaks like the Swallow and is paddling the river with skill and enjoyment. Advanced paddling ability is required to enjoy racing this Kayak.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

SPECIFICATION

KAYAKS

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

14.5 kg 540 mm 4.94m $2295

INTRIGUE This kayak is ideal for the beginner kayaker who is looking for a quick, light kayak with great stability.

12 kg 480mm 5.4 m $2795

Weight:

Length: Price:

SWALLOW The next step up from the entry level kayaks. Fast with good

13.5 kg Kevlar 12 kg Carbon / Kevlar 6.2 m $3095 Kevlar $3295 Carbon / Kevlar

stability. Medium skill ability is required to enjoy racing this kayak.

F1 This innovative new multisport kayak is designed for the advanced and Weight: 16.5 kg to 19 kg depending on construction Width: 510 mm Length: 6.43 m Price: $2980 - $3330 depending on construction

elite paddler. This radical kayak is fast with considerable secondary stability and is fitted with our new “bikini” seat. It will accelerate with ease, cutting wave trains and eliminating rocking.

Weight: Width: Length: Price:

MAXIMUS Fast ocean going Racing Sea Kayak. The broad bow allows this kayak to ride over waves like a surf ski without losing any speed and is easy to control while surfing. A low profile reduces buffeting by the wind in adverse conditions.

19.09 kg 585 mm 5.03 m $1495

THE ELIMINATOR is a fast stable racing Weight: Weight:

26 26kg kg Glass Kevlar/Carbon 24kg Kevlar Width: 550mm Width: 550 mm Length: 7m Length: 7m Price: $4995 Price: $4995Glass - $5495 $5495 depending on construction Kevlar/Carbon

ADVENTURE DUET This lightweight, very fast and recently updated Adventure Racing double kayak continues to dominate adventure racing in NZ and is very suitable as a recreational double.

and training ‘Sit -on’. It has an adjustable dry seat and a cool draining system. Ideal for the paddler wanting a good fitness work out.

Give your specialist kayak shop a call and talk to one of our friendly team to help choose the best kayak for you.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

49

Handy Hint Greenland Paddles

by Paul Hayward Two quick warnings for those making (or contemplating) Greenland Paddles.

Don’t apply an oil finish and then leave the rag sitting round.

Rags soaked in Linseed or Tung oils will self-combust and burn.

That’s what burned down the store at Oparau in November.

Wash the rags or store in a small airtight tin.

I apply the oils with my hands - which avoids the whole problem....

Monitor your sensitivity to Cedar dust!

Wear a dust mask if you need to.

Some folk just get dirty snot - others get sinusitis & think that pollen season has rolled around early.

Cedar chests are fragrant... but moths don’t like them for a reason.

50

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004

51

MANUKAU

BAY OF PLENTY

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

Unit 2, 20 Ascension Pl. Off Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, Auckland - Telephone: 09 479 1002

7/28 Anvil Road, Silverdale Please phone for opening hours Telephone: 09 421 0662

Flood Howarth & Partners Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak North Shore

Canoe & Kayak Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak Distribution

WIRI STATION ROAD

HEWLETTS ROAD

RD VIL AN

RD

BRONCOS

SOUTHERN MOTORAWAY

NORTH

ROAD TAVERN FOU NDR Y

FIRST DRIVEWAY

GREAT SOUTH RD

RO AD

CONSTELLATION DRIVE

TOYOYA

WAY RTH HIGH MAIN NO

CO AS T

NORTH

EA ST

UPPER HIGHWAY (16)

ASCENSION PL

SILVERDALE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE

NORTHERN MOTORWAY

NORTH SHORE DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

TO TAURANGA BRIDGE

NORTH

MACDONALD STREET LIQUORLAND

KFC

MAUNGANUI ROAD

710 Great South Road, Manukau Telephone: 09 262 0209

3/5 Mac Donald Street Mount Maunganui (off Hewletts Rd) Telephone: 07 574 7415

J. K. Marine Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak Manukau

Jenanne Investment Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak Bay of Plenty

Photo by Ruth E. Henderson Sailing under paddle blade, Lake Waikaremoana

JOIN THE

AUCKLAND

YAKITY YAK CLUB

CITY

DOMINION

BALMORAL ROAD

SOUTH

SANDRINGHAM ROAD

ROAD

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

ST LUKES RD

PHONE YOUR NEAREST

502 Sandringham Rd Telephone: 09 815 2073

SHOP

Marine Retail Developments Ltd T/A Canoe & Kayak Auckland

TAUPO

HAWKE’S BAY DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

RIVER WAIWHAKAIHO

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD NORTH

ON DEV

D ROA

LAKE TERRACE

38 Nukuhau Street, Taupo Telephone: 07 378 1003

Unit 6, 631 Devon Road Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth Telephone: 06 769 5506

Rees and Partners Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak Taupo

Peter & Bronnie van Lith Trading as Canoe and Kayak Taranaki

TARADALE ROAD

AR SP ST ARIRO TONG

PHONE 07 847 5565

NORTH

D OA

DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

SMART ROAD

U HA

KU

.1

S.H

OPENING SOON

TARANAKI

NU

HAMILTON DISCOVER ANOTHER WORLD

NORTH

NIVEN STREET

15 NIVEN STREET ONEKAWA, NAPIER Telephone: 06 842 1305 CSJ Limited Trading as Canoe and Kayak Hawke’s Bay

www.canoeandkayak.co.nz 52

ISSUE TWENTY

eight • 2004