NZ Kayak Magazine Issue 92

Issue 92

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A Sport for Life

- Interview with John “Shakey” Flemming

A River Flows to the Sea

- Paddling the Length of the Motueka River

Pucón, Chile

- A Village that Lies at the Foot of an Active Volcano

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 3

Contents adventure equipment

Sea Kayaking 6.

A Sport for Life- Interview with John “Shakey” Flemming.

12.

A River Flows to the Sea - Paddling the Length of the

Motueka River.

Racing 20.

42.

The Na Wahine is the Superbowl for women - The pinnacle of canoe racing.

Kathmandu Coast to Coast 2019

White Water 46.

Pucón, Chile - A Village that Lies at the Foot of an

Active Volcano.

General 22.

28.

32.

34.

38.

44.

Delta Kayaks Have Landed!

The Whanganui Recipe.

Another Chance to join a Yakity Yak Whanganui River Trip Jump on a Tour Before the Summer is Gone!

Tide waits For No Man. Rhino-Rack Product.

Kallista PFD

High Back PFD

Sladek Recreational Cag

EDITOR: Peter Townend, pete@canoeandkayak.co.nz PUBLISHER: New Zealand Kayak Magazine is published four times per year by Canoe & Kayak Ltd. PRINTING: Print Lounge Pricing: At the time of printing the prices in this magazine were accurate. However they may change at any time.

Xipe Touring PFD

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Go to: www.kayaknz.co.nz/subscriptions CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome contributor’s articles and photos. Refer to www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/guide for more details.

ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO: James Fitness, james@canoeandkayak.co.nz New Zealand Kayak Magazine

Junga Touring Cag

Galena White water PFD

Cover photo: Mike taking a wash on the Whanganui River.

Photo by: Peter Townend.

RFD New Zealand Limited 0800 777 009 Auckland Wellington Nelson Christchurch PAGE 4

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Issue 92 Summer 2019 YAK qtr page 18-08 colour white background.indd 1

04-Sep-18 2

Editorial The Marine Environment.

The playground we all enjoy is under extreme pressure.

I recently spoke at a council hearing, where the culmination of many years of pressure from a team of dedicated people, resulted in the council taking the first steps in controlling the massive sediment discharges from development activities into the Hauraki Gulf.

There is still along way to go, where local and national organisations will need to continue the pressure to ensure the momentum is not lost.

But you may ask why all the concern about sediment when it is only seen for a few days, then clear waters prevail?

The issue is clear - excuse the pun.

The massive increase of sediment in the marine environment cause marine animals and shore birds immense stress.

Shellfish are filter feeders, and when healthy, they filter their food from the water. When abundant, the many species of shellfish filter every drop of water in the Hauraki Gulf every few days. When sediment loads get too high, it clogs up their filtering systems and they then become sick and susceptible to infections and many eventually die. This, we believe, has caused the death of over half of the shellfish in our local area.

Fish and birds need heathy shellfish populations, as this makes up an enormous proportion of their diet, and most of their other food sources begin in the shallow estuarine, beach and reef environments, all of which are heavily impacted by sediment. Fish also require clear water to prosper.

A recent study found that snapper are heavily impacted by high sediment levels. Our local beaches often have sediment levels that exceed the happy zone for snapper, for long periods.

Shore birds are under huge risk and many, if not most, are on the endangered list. The NZ dotterel and the variable oyster catcher are two such species. These have around 2000 and 5000 (respectively) left and are struggling with many issues. Habitat loss, human and pest interference,

and the declining health of the shore marine environment are all causing a major depletion of food. The combination of which portrays a very bleak future for the biodiversity of little old NZ. The question we have and are struggling with is, why is sediment not better controlled?

I feel we have a disconnect when it comes to best practice. Roading contractors and lines companies are going the extra distance by ensuring that sediment controls are maximised by covering stockpiled soils and stabilising bare ground with biodegradable sprays and natural ground cover. They monitor their work and then take action if needed to ensure minimal impact on the environment. What we have seen from urban developments is a fraction of what these other operators do, and we hope that this will start to change with Auckland Council’s focus back on target.

The monitoring of an issue does not, and never will, have any impact on the problem if no further action is taken when an issue is identified.

And here in lies the other area of change that is needed. Currently you can have 100% mortality of all long-lived marine organisms on a stream head and the developer’s team can simply state that it is a natural occurrence and the issue stops there. You can have a 90 % plus retention of sediment in a retention pond and still release into a small stream 50 tonnes of sediment in one rain event. This is considered a win because the percentage retention is banded about, not the tonnage discharged.

We are concerned with leaving our current biodiversity for future generations to marvel at and we are losing this battle. We need to stop the double standards and rhetoric to prevent further degradation of our marine environment.

Cheers Peter Townend

Okura Land Holdings Withdraw Appeal To High Court “Okura Land Holdings, a subsidiary of Todd Corporation, have announced their intention to withdraw an appeal scheduled to be heard in May in the High Court.

The company had appealed a 2017 decision of the Environment Court which prevented them from building up to 2000 houses on the southern shore of the Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve. ”Congratulations to all involved. A battle well fought! www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 5

A Sport For Life -

An interview with John Flemming –Adventurer and Paddler

Lake Roturua Sunrise Photo by Shelley Stuart

by Ruth E. Henderson

Lake Tarawera, Photo by Ruth E. Henderson

Energy, enthusiasm, vitality, wit - John Flemming is full of it!

I first heard him speak at a KASK forum about a two-week pilgrimage around the Rotorua Lakes, paddling 300 kms and portaging about 70 kms. Subsequently I gathered that he repeats this journey annually and has done so eight times!

Then in 2009, I received an email to saying that to celebrate his 80th birthday John had extended himself. He had set out to paddle 1200 kms, on the North Island’s lakes, mainly solo.

Wow!!

I just had to meet this man in the flesh!

There was no mistaking his Rotorua home. Swinging from the rafters of the open garage were three kayaks, including a double. On the lawn there was another, on the concrete pad one awaited repair, and on a rope and pulley arrangement in the workshop - a sea kayak, with his trade mark four hatches, in the process of being glassed.

John greeted me with a warm handshake and a quote from a friend, Mark Self, “You can’t call yourself a kayaker unless you own at least six kayaks.”

He then showed me his absolutely final boat – with just enough room for him, a couple of cans of Speights and a bar of Whitakers chocolate - the one he’ll be lying in while we are singing hymns.

Looking at the kayak-shaped casket, a paddle and pair of tramping boots on the lid and looking and listening to the man, I thought the last PAGE 8

Issue 92 Summer 2019

boat a bit premature! But John Flemming is a pragmatic realist and hasn’t got this far in life without being a tactician or as he says “There is no such thing as good luck, it’s good organization, being prepared. Don’t wish you could start tomorrow, don’t wish your life away - prior to a trip, spend weeks planning, preparing, drooling, extending your life – then have your weeks of activity, then months on your memories, drooling – that’s what life is about – memories.”

Leaving the workshop, it was time to settle down and ask the how, why questions… but first - he demonstrated his latest invention – a paddle exercise machine set up in his living room. Aha – was this his secret weapon... his means of getting and staying paddle fit? Apparently not - he finished the machine after he finished 1000 km of his self-challenge paddle, and now every morning he does four minutes or 200 strokes.

Mostly John paddled with the Bay Association of Sea Kayakers (BASK).

On one trip that he led, in a group of fifteen there were eight over 70-year olds, and in his usual pod of eight, there is one slightly over 70 year old and two 78 year olds. However, he likes to associate with younger paddlers; they are handy to help lift the boat off the van!

It that’s the case I ask, how does he cope with the physicality of going solo? Mostly he loads and unloads whatever is needed from his custom made four-hatch kayak at the shore. The bow hatch has his survival gear – first aid kit, sleeping bag, fly sheet. If the weather is foul, he can put up his flysheet, a 4 x 4.5m piece of extra light spinnaker cloth, then put his kayak on wheels, and unload under cover. The second hatch houses bulk cooking gear and clothing. The third food, and the rear a folding stretcher, fly poles, cheap folding chair without arm rests. All organised, so not every hatch is necessarily accessed if for instance he needs to wait up for a few hours for conditions on the water to improve. www.kayaknz.co.nz

For such a gregarious chap, the next obvious question was “What’s the attraction of going solo?” “I don’t mind my own company, I like spending the day thinking about whatever I want to think about, not having to make conversation. I can set myself a goal, avoid other distractions. I’m not bound to times, can pull up wherever I like. Watch a gorgeous sunset by myself, its just wonderful.”

I’d also suggest not many folk, apart from Paul Caffyn, could keep up the pace.

Although he aimed for the “good round figure” of 1200 kms in six weeks and ‘only’ achieved 1000, he did the first 930 in sixteen days of paddling. These were not all consecutive - “At the end of a particular section of my paddling I returned home to restock with tucker and wait for the weather to improve” – but that’s an impressive average of 58 kms a day!

John chose his weather windows well – every night he slept under the stars, not even needing to use his flysheet which he kept handy “just in case, it all turned to custard and I needed to draw it over me.” On the final night, he slept on a friend’s veranda, the only evening it rained.

To accumulate his mileage, John started on Lake Waikaremoana paddling the equivalent of two circumnavigations, and then did his first lap of Lake Taupo before hitting the very familiar waters of Lake Rotoiti, Lake Rotorua and Rotoma. Lake Okareka was given eight laps, and Tarawera two. Lake Taupo was circuited a second time, a particularly memorable trip as he had to fix a loose rudder cable, whilst balanced precariously on a rock. He then took a break to do some repair work on his boat, before doing a few day trips to top the total up to a tidy 1000, but ignominious end. On his last day “the bow of my boat rose from the lake like a horse getting to its feet” and he was ‘thrown’ off his steed, or more accurately, rolled from his holed boat, skewered on a submerged tree stump.

In that instance the water was only knee deep and he bandaged his boat up with duct tape. How did he deal with capsize and self-rescue ‘normally’?

Much to my surprise I discovered that he could not roll nor did he carry a paddle float. Since he has been paddling a sea-kayak for ‘only’ 15 years and coming from a background of Canadian canoes he has a slightly different outlook to most sea-kayakers: Prevention and Patience. Firstly, he tries to “not put myself in a situation where a rescue is needed. I look at the conditions on the water and if I feel uncomfortable at all, I do not go out. I use common sense and only go out if I feel I can handle it – and get ashore if the weather gets up. If I have to wait a couple of hours or a couple of days, I don’t mind. If I can’t get ashore, I talk to myself, do not panic, and keep the nose of the boat in to the swell coming towards me.

I’m always sussing out the land, looking for a landing all the time. I paddle

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www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

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Lake Waikaremoana

the shoreline for the scenery and for the security. My life is important to me – I try to look after it.”

used the latter when on a twelveand-a-half-day trip around Lake Te Anau and found it useful for not just weather forecasts but getting messages out and the responses back. Normally though, John makes up maps marked out in kilometres, so when he phones friends looking to rendezvous or to help out in an emergency, he can tell them he is camped at ‘58’ or ’62.’ He doesn’t use a VHF as mostly there is no reception inland.

After gear and gismos long distance paddlers want to know about food. Recalling Pete Townend saying at an Initial Skills Course - if you usually have a cheese or ham sandwich and a cup of tea for lunch – stick with that, don’t’ suddenly change your diet and switch to muesli & nut bars – I asked John what he fuelled up on? Seems he sticks

“I’ve been capsized twice over the years, with a near capsize on Lake Tarawera. I’d left Hot Water Beach late, there was a brisk wind bringing big waves with it.

The wind blew my paddle, which was on a leash, out of my hands. I went over; my left shoulder touching the water, dog paddled like mad, and popped back up.”

So, when he is waiting out a storm - the wind howling, the trees thrashing, white caps and waves are catching up with each other – what does he think?

“Keep safe. Wait it out. I have no time limits – I can always paddle longer the next day to make up time.”

And what does he do? “Make pancakes, have a cuppa, pull out the stretcher, and have asleep. Or go for a walk with my PLB. When paddling I have it tethered to my buoyancy aid.”

Other gadgets he carries for safety and general communication, include a cellphone in a drybag, and when there is no coverage, a Mountain Radio. He

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to this premise and eats basic good tucker dehydrating his own meals and eating fresh for the first three - four days – chipolatas, stew, corned beef with lettuce, coleslaw and tomatoes for lunch and dinner, perhaps with a tin of salmon for a change. Porridge pre-mixed with milk powder, salt and sugar for breakfast, maybe weetbix. Then for pudding, sachets of custard powder and dried fruit.

Lake Rotomahana

Figuring that he paddles for ten to twelve hours at a stretch, day after day I asked John how he coped with aching muscles and injury – what was in his first aid box of tricks.

He said “I sit down and have a beer. Carry anti-flam, anti-histamine, just in case. Can’t remember the last time I had aching arms or shoulders…” Then he went on to recount an injury. “It was on the Seven days, Seven dam’s trip – 303kms on the Waikato River. We were portaging on slippery ground and I slid under the boat and bruised two ribs. Lifting was torture. Turning over in bed was agony. But I suffered it.” Of that trip Evan Pugh apparently said “Flemming was always out in front, we never had to wait for him.”

A tough man indeed whose philosophy is “It’s there to be done” and says after a tip out, as soon as it’s safe – have a very long laugh!

It’s now January 2019. In the intervening years I’ve paddled in John’s wake and he’s turned up out of the blue, with an uncanny knack for a). finding us and b). knowing what we need - with hot soup or chilled jelly and peaches. Tonight, I’ve just gotten off the phone to John, or Shakey as his mates call him. I’m lucky to be regarded as one of those and was flattered when he said, “Getting a phone call from you is like winning Lotto.”

We pulled each other’s leg for a bit – but yeah, at nearly 90, when you are in a Retirement Village and you can no longer get out on the water, talking to friends you’ve made through kayaking apparently, is what really does count.

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

P A G E 11

A River Flows to the Sea

by Nathan Fa’avae

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Pictured from top left (clockwise): Sampling the Gelato, One of the many dinners eating El Fresco, Pizza night, Lunch en-route - a simple affair, Antipasto galore, and some of the many delicious breakfast cakes (centre).

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

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According to many a great song writer, a river flows to the sea.

It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and I’m bashfully embarrassed that it has taken me so long to do it, a 100% authentic source to sea trip on a significant New Zealand river. I live in Tasman, close to Motueka, a small town nestled on the coast, a sand throws distance to the Abel Tasman National Park and situated beneath Kahurangi National Park, two gems of the crown lands. I live in the region for the world class outdoor adventure opportunities, the climate and a laid-back way of life - going to the supermarket in bare feet - that type of thing. The Motueka River is part of daily life for most locals, they cross the river regularly, it’s enjoyed for kayaking, swimming, fishing, white baiting and commercially it irrigates much of the horticulture along its banks. I wouldn’t say it’s the life blood of the town, but it’s certainly high value to the region.

Over my sporting years I have traveled most of the river but not all of it, there were some sections that I had in mind I’d like to see one day.

Standing on top of a high ridge in Mount Richmond Forest Park in 2018 on an ultra-clear day, the landscape below me looked like a well-made hand-crafted papier mache model. It struck me how much the path of the Motueka River stood out, carving its way through valleys out to the sea at Riwaka, near Kaiteriteri Beach, and I thought, how special would it be to travel the entire length of the river?

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

“Let’s find out” I said to the party as we had lunch on the summit of Red Hill (1791m), the highest mountain in the park, which also forms the cradle where the Motueka River springs. It was early January, I was with my wife Jodie and my three children Jessie (16), Zefa (14) and Tide (12).

Our intrepid friends Mark and Wendy with their daughters Kyla (15) and Nika (12) had joined us for the admittedly uncreative but aptly named trip ‘The Motueka Source to Sea’ From the summit our plan was simple, descend. We had logistics set up for a weeklong trip, but we were well aware there was many unknowns.

Out there in the wilderness, mainly in the upper gorges, were sections that none of us had traveled through before. We didn’t know anyone who had, and we couldn’t find any trip information, so for us it was true blue adventure, outcomes uncertain.

The weather forecast for the week was burning sunshine and clear skies, so entering canyons didn’t have any risk of flash flooding.

The Red Hills is an impressively unique area, essentially a jumble of ultramafic rock. It is very high in minerals, mainly iron, copper, and chrome, it’s practically impossible for vegetation to grow, except for a few hardy plants. The result is a landscape that could be expected on another planet, maybe what Proxima Centauri looks like.

The Motueka River is claimed to be 116 km, but I had my Xmas present along for the ride, a Suunto9 GPS wristwatch, which suggested our route including every twist and turn was closer to 140km. I’m not sure where Wikipedia did their measurement from, but I doubt they travelled the river like we did. www.kayaknz.co.nz

Descending from Red Hill it didn’t take us long to find the first trickle of water seeping out of the rocks. This was a monumental part of our journey, from this point on we would never be more than a few metres from the water. In high spirits we set off, first stop, a swimming hole.

The first day we were treated to one pristine swimming hole to the next, it was a blistering hot day and the water was crisp and rejuvenating.

The water in the upper Motueka River has been recorded as some of the cleanest river water in New Zealand and it’s not difficult to see why, it’s basically rainwater dropping onto rock, there’s almost nothing to discolour or pollute it.

We enjoyed numerous soaks and long refreshing drinks as we boulder hopped down the valley. We were all amazed at how quickly the trickle had established itself into a real river, it happened very fast.

By late afternoon we started to look for a campsite, there were some sandy clearings amongst the rocks so we sought out some areas for tents.

There was ample daylight to push on but wanted to enjoy a night camping in the Red Hill area, absorbing the landscape and what we knew would be a remarkable starry night sky, something that would have inspired Vincent van Gogh.

Our campsite didn’t disappoint, we reveled in the remoteness, the wild open space, real fresh air and of course the simplicity of living out of a backpack.

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Our next day would see us transition out of the Red Hills and into beech forest. The morning was a mixture of climbing, traversing and swimming.

We had to navigate through numerous small gorges, it was insanely picturesque, and we tried to absorb as much of the wonder as we could.

It was and is such a stunning place. We crossed the Te Araroa Trail at Te Araruahinewai and soon after entered the forest. The map contours hinted that there was a chasm about 1km long to pass. This had the potential to be a show stopper. With trepidation we slowly made our way into the chasm, mindful that we always need to have a retreat option, but instead we were treated to an amazing slot of smooth and sculptured rock, with the river gracefully carving its way through. We jumped in and swam, with grins that would still be glowing well into the evening.

We doubted the trip could get any better, but as we team-talked around the campfire about day three, we reminded ourselves that we still had one more significant gorge to get through before we got into familiar waters.

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Well slept and well fed, we were underway again, walking and floating downstream, river people. We were traveling in what the map said was the right branch and the last section looked ominous before the left branch joined. As we got closer to the gorge the sound of cascading water suggested there was a bigger gradient drop and some caution was needed.

After clambering and scouting we found a safe route through which involved using a safety rope to lower people down a rock wall. We later spotted

another route that could have avoided using the rope, but we’d carried it so it was good to use it. Reaching the confluence, we took a break for lunch and celebratory fist pumps. We had made it through the part of the trip that we had anticipated could have easily put an end to our source to sea goal, but the river had been kind and we were thankful.

Supplies were low so we carried on for a few more hours to reach the

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 17

1/09/17 12:12 PM

main Motueka Gorge. Prior to the trip we had stashed pack rafts and a resupply of food for the next section.

We pumped up the pack rafts, loaded our gear and started paddling.

We had 40 km of pack rafting in a relatively small river to reach Tapawera, where we had kayaks and more supplies waiting. We figured we’d have two nights camping with the pack rafts.

The shallow river made it hard going at times, with people having to drag the boats and occasionally unload to portage around fallen trees.

The morning of day four was cloudy with some brief rain showers. What we didn't know until the next morning was that it was raining steady in the headwaters and that the river rise overnight. Luckily, we had secured the boats otherwise we would have woken to some missing gear.

Living in, on or next to the river was easy and pleasurable. We commented a few times that while we’d been out for multiple days, we all felt clean and refreshed because we were constantly in the water.

Reaching Tapawera on the morning of day five we were ready for our kayaks; the pack rafts had served their purpose but the idea of being in hard shell plastic kayaks was appealing. The river was up and not far downstream the Wangapeka River joined, bringing a major volume of water to the party.

The summer was still raging hot so arriving in the township of Tapawera the kids (and adults) sped to the chilled food and beverage selection at the Four Square, a well-earned moment of decadence. We then loaded up two inflatable kayaks as gear boats and launched the seven river boats: the flotilla was mobile. Our goal for the day was to reach the Graham River confluence, 50 km from that morning’s campsite. We felt we needed to reach that point so the following day we’d be able to paddle out to the sea on the high tide.

PROTECT THEIR PLAYGROUND FOR YEARS TO COME Freshwater pests, including didymo and lake snow, could squeeze the life out of our country’s most precious rivers and lakes. They can be spread by a single drop of water. Help protect your favourite waterway. Always CHECK, CLEAN, DRY any equipment that comes into contact with the water, between every waterway, every time.

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The Motueka River by now had grown to a significant grade two level, with regular rapids and deep pools to swim in. We were on familiar water now, so the final day allowed us cruise along knowing we were going to complete the trip: it was a superb time for reflection. As the river flowed out onto the delta we could look back at the faraway mountains where we had started six days prior.

The river had provided us a safe passage and treated us to countless incredible experiences, cleansing swims, idyllic campsites. Many of the places the river took us had been amazing. It hadn’t been an easy trip by any stretch, we’d done some big days, we’d had some anxious moments as to whether we could actually get through some parts, and we’d had to contend with some very low water paddling in the upper reaches, the reality of a source to sea, but it was undoubtably worth it.

I’ll admit it was emotional floating out of the river mouth and into the salt water. To see our river in its entirety and the story it tells through the flow, it was a moving in more ways than one, an enriching and connecting experience.

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 19

The Na Wahine is the Superbowl for Women The pinnacle of canoe racing

Interview by Ora Pihema Photos courtesy of Toia Palmer

After her recent return from Hawaii,

Corrina Gage talks about what it takes to not only compete in the most prestigious Long-Distance Outrigger race in the world, but to win it, with an all-female crew.

This last race just gone was my 18th.

Race: Na Wahine o Ke Kai Molokai to Oahu, Hawaii Date: 23 September 2018 Time: 6:05:16 Distance: 46 miles (74 km) open ocean Category: Masters 40 Na wahine o Ke Kai is a unique race and you`ve raced it before. What challenges does this race present that sets it apart from others?

The Venue being in another country adds to the difficulty in organising things like canoe, escort boat, accommodation, rental cars especially with such a big group. You`ve got a crew of ten and then you need support people, so that`s a challenge.

PAGE 20

Another is having to race in a surfing canoe and not the flat-water canoes that we have here in NZ, so, training to do a surf race. In Tauranga we don`t have the boats to go out into the conditions that you need to train in for that kind of race, so the majority of our training was pretty much on flat water.

How did you go about picking your crew for Team Aotearoa? What qualities did you look for in each paddler?

The core of our crew was our club crew which is Mako from the Ruamata club in Rotorua. We are a Masters 40 crew. We took on a Hawaiian steerer and she was the only crew member who was not from New Zealand.

The canoe we used in the race was a Bradley Lightning, so there was no way our club crew steerer could practise in that let alone practise in the conditions that we might face, so that addsed to those challenges.

So, we had six already including our Hawaiian steerer, then I opened it up for the crew to vote on who our other four paddlers should be.

Issue 92 Summer 2019

Everybody got to put in their top four choices, and we went with the paddlers who got the most votes. Part of that choice for our crew was people you could get on with. Ideally you don`t just think about who the fastest paddlers are, but one who will not upset group dynamics. It was important to me that we have a happy crew and that we could blend well together.

Describe your training leading up to the race and how far out from the race did you start training?

With the club crew that we had and the four additional paddlers that we selected, the filtering process, meant we had people who had the mental capacity to not overthink, to be able to respond to any of the cues that we`ve trained with, and stick to doing simple well.

I spent a lot of time thinking about cues that were going to add the most value to our crew under race pressure and making sure everyone was on the same page about what those cues meant. That was the key focus of my training.

As well, going with people who didn`t need to be micro managed regarding their personal fitness.

www.kayaknz.co.nz

I got one of our crew members who is a Personal Trainer and has worked a lot in water sports, to do the water programme for our crew. Then we came together for four training weekends prior to departure.

We had very specific technique and crew blending training sessions in those weekends.

You focus your crew time to crew blending, your cues and your response to those cues.

You have also represented NZ in rafting and canoeing, how have these disciplines influenced your paddling?

Participating in any sport and representing NZ at that level gives you the advantage of knowing what amount of time is needed to meet the amount of training required to perform at that level. The Na Wahine is the ‘Superbowl’ for women, it is the pinnacle of canoe racing.

Internationally it is the distance racing that features more for high performance for women, not the sprint racing. Sprint racing still counts but it’s the distance races where you get the turn out of top women paddlers internationally.

What advice would you give any crew contemplating the Na Wahine for the first time?

The amount of planning required to meet the best outcome for your crew. You need to think about the distance and the weaknesses of your crew. You need an initial measure of what your crew needs to work on and have a training programme that meets those weaknesses.

That`s just one aspect of the planning.

That’s probably about 60% of your planning.

The other 40% is hugely important and that is your boat coach i.e. who is going to run your water changes, who is going to decide on what

www.kayaknz.co.nz

course you take across that open ocean.

are usually their best.

Also your escort boat, you need someone who knows what they`re doing. Some of the crossings I`ve done, it`s come up to five metre swells plus wind. You need to be with someone who can handle those conditions in the context of coming in to pick up people in the water. Plus you need to have organised a decent racing canoe.

What does paddling waka ama mean to you?

Also, you need to think about how long before the race you`re going to go, bearing in mind you`re going from our winter to between 30 – 40o C. In addition - have you organised good accommodation, have you organised vehicles to get around, you need to be in Molokai at least the night before, so need to organise accommodation and vehicles there as well.

A good 40% of your performance outcome can be relative to how well you`ve planned. That is the most common thing I see that is not done as well as it should be.

You can spend a lot of time on training and going with a crew who are in the best shape they can be in, but you immediately put yourself back several places in the pack, by not having planned ahead. You need one central person, that everyone listens to and takes direction from.

We won our age division, Masters 40. My planned goal before we left was that we would win our division, which I still knew was a big call.

Also, that we would be in the top 10 overall.

We achieved both those goals, we were seventh overall.

Of all the 18 races I`ve done at Na Wahine, this year saw the highest calibre of paddlers I`ve seen. They are mostly Hawaiian crews that enter, however, the entries you get from other countries

Over the years, the reason for my participation in the sport has changed. Initially I went from doing an individual sport, kayaking, to waka ama, as a way to be in a group sport, and still enjoy participating at a high level.

My very first outrigger canoe race was this race, the Na Wahine. I had paddled kayaks at an international race. The Australians rang me up and asked if I was interested in doing this race, so I went a month before the race and learnt how to paddle outriggers. I was fortunate that this was my first contact with outriggers.

So, my initial reason for wanting to paddle was about going into a crew sport and still being able to participate at a high-performance level. Then it turns into winning races, then I got more into the coaching aspect, so now for me it`s the enjoyment of still performing at a high-performance level, but I`ve moved from competing against people to competing with people.

When I go into a race I don`t feel like I need to beat another crew, I go into it feeling like I need to perform as well as I can and in the doing we may beat another crew. I need to get off the water knowing I and my crew raced as well as we could have raced. It`s different from going out there to beat other crews, it`s a different mindset.

That`s me as a competitor, but now I`ve moved into a coaching role, the satisfaction I get is in helping people`s paddling / coaching development. Helping people to be better coaches, or helping people to be better paddlers, in whatever way that means to them. Their measure of better, not my measure of better.

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 21

Delta Kayaks Have Landed!

At Delta, they build only thermoformed touring kayaks because they believe in the technology, their kayak designs and their state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. They’re proud to craft their kayaks in coastal British Columbia and feel there’s no better place to prove their designs. And they make kayaks for everyone, from beginner to expert, because they believe every paddler deserves a well-crafted kayak that suits their own style and ability. Delta’s focus has always been to build the world’s finest thermoformed kayaks in North America, and we think their quality kayaks

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Consideration for the environment is an important part of their philosophy at Delta Kayaks. While you are enjoying your kayak in the outdoors, you can be confident in the knowledge that Delta Kayaks are made from materials and construction methods that tread lightly on our planet. The materials used to make Delta Kayaks are safe to manufacture and are completely recyclable. 100% of their scrap material is collected and repurposed so there is no waste.

Delta Kayaks: Proudly made in North America

speak to the value of doing one thing and doing it well.

That’s the Delta difference.

ADVANCED THERMOFORM CONSTRUCTION Delta’s skilled workers carefully craft every Delta kayak using a proprietary blend of thermoplastic materials. An ABS base layer provides superior impact-resistance and rigidity, while the Solarkote exterior surface contributes outstanding abrasion and UV resistance for a smooth, bright finish and vibrant, lasting colours. Their kayaks have higher impact strength than composite fibreglass boats and hold their shape better than polyethylene kayaks. The first thing you’re likely to notice, however, is their weight. Thanks to their advanced thermoform construction, Delta kayaks are not just tough and good-looking—they’re also among the lightest on the market.

CONTOUR II SEAT SYSTEM The multi-position Contour II Seat System allows you to personalize your fit for comfort and performance. The seat and backrest are cushioned with channel-vented foam for excellent drainage and airflow, while the five-position indexing system makes back-and-forth seat adjustments easy. This feature allows you to fine-tune the distance to the foot braces, the position of your thighs for maximum control, and adjust boat trim. The backrest height and incline are also fully adjustable, and the system can be further customized using the Delta Hip Pad Fit Kit. All seat adjustments are easy to make on the fly, so you can focus on the adventures ahead of you instead of the seat beneath you.

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

WOW! was the first thing I said when I saw these kayaks, the shape and finish is stunning and then it only gets better.

When I first slipped into them I noticed just how smooth every thing is, there are no sharp bits or rough bits anywhere on the kayak and the fit is so snug, the foot peg and steering adjustments are super easy and the rudder up haul works with just two fingers, it is effortless, the hatches are unique and simple and during extreme testing held up as well as any other system would.

Then it just gets better and better as lifting them on to the roof rack another WOW! they are so light and this is always one of the biggest issues for me, yes I can lift 30 kg above my head and I have been doing that daily for 30 years now, but lifting these is just so easy it takes away the hard work.

Then the last WOW! is paddling them, every fitting works so well, they are stable when you first hop in and then if you are an advanced paddler the secondary stability is amazing and allows for easy hip steering and advanced strokes (great secondary stability is when a kayak is leant over it tries to hold itself up) To comment on each boat individually is so hard, I have always said that we (the Canoe & Kayak Team) should be happy paddling in any kayak we sell and that is absolutely the case with these three kayaks.

Try them out and you will be amazed. WOW! - Peter Townend

www.kayaknz.co.nz

15s

The Delta 15s is an ideal choice for small and medium-sized paddlers seeking a performance kayak with great cruising speed, exceptional tracking and superior edging. Quick, responsive and easy to handle, the 15s is perfect for seasoned paddlers or those seeking to take their skills to the next level. It combines sleek lines with a cockpit tailored for an intimate fit, including combings that won’t catch your elbows and a low-slung seat that delivers exceptional primary stability. With abundant storage and a rudder, the 15s is ideal for extended touring as well as ocean play.

Masterful at the Midsize Range The Delta 15s combines sleek lines with a smaller fitting cockpit to create an exceptional kayak suited for medium to smaller framed paddlers.

Weighing just 20 kg it offers quick, responsive handling with reassuring primary and secondary stability while effortlessly holding its course.

Feature highlights include Delta’s proprietary Press-Lock Hatch System, low profile front day-hatch, and multi-position Contour II Seat System.

Specifications:

Features: •

Delta’s comfy multi-position Contour II Seat System

•

Smaller cockpit at 149 litres

•

Easy access day hatch pod

•

Easy to use rudder with seadog foot pedal system

•

Press-Lock hatch system

•

Bow and Stern paddle parks

•

Curved bulkheads giving more rigidity

•

Comfortable dual density carry handles front and rear

•

167 litres of hatch storage (excluding the day hatch)

•

Comprehensive deck rigging

•

Recessed Bungees

•

Safety Grab ropes

•

Tamper-proof locking point

•

Manufacturers three-year limited warranty

Length: 4.57 metres Width: 559 mm Weight: 20 kg

A lively little boat that was desperate to surf. Adjusting the seat and foot pedals at sea was a breeze. - James Fitness

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 23

16

Excelling in rough seas, surf and wind, the elegant Delta 16 offers a balanced combination of manoeuvrability and tracking. This nimble sea kayak stays the course in challenging conditions, holds a lively pace with ease and has plenty of storage capacity for multi-day exploration. With substantial rocker and a moderately concave sidewall, the Delta 16 edges with a satisfying bite and turns on a dime. At 16 feet, its performance envelope is best explored by a medium-sized paddler. Features include a low-profile front day hatch, Press-Lock hatches, our Contour II Seat System, and rudder.

Features: •

Delta’s comfy multi-position Contour II Seat System

•

Large cockpit at 161 litres

•

Easy access day hatch pod

•

Easy to use rudder with seadog foot pedal system

•

Press-Lock hatch system

•

Bow and Stern paddle parks

•

Curved bulkheads giving more rigidity

•

Comfortable dual density carry handles front and rear

•

199 litres of hatch storage (excluding the day hatch)

•

Comprehensive deck rigging

•

Safety Grab ropes

•

Tamper-proof locking point

•

Manufacturers three-year limited warranty

Specifications: Length: 4.88 metres Width: 559 mm Weight: 21 kg

The Delta 16 paddles very well with great primary and secondary stability. Handles the rough stuff and surfs well.

Very manoeuvrable when using the rails while still maintaining a good speed for a 4.9 m kayak. The finish is outstanding. - Russell Williams

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

www.kayaknz.co.nz

17

Performance Touring and Style

Features:

The Delta 17 is an excellent choice for paddlers looking to cruise on lakes, paddle extended trips or have fun in ocean swells. The Delta 17 is a veritable champion in the surf and delivers its abilities with speed and grace. Its V-shaped hull, pronounced chine and moderate rocker offer paddlers a smooth transition to edge and impressive tracking. It features our Press-Lock hatch system, multi-position Contour II Seat System, front deck Day-Pod, dual-density soft grip handles and innovative bungee risers.

•

Delta’s comfy multi-position Contour II Seat System

•

Large cockpit at 179 litres

•

Sculptured foredeck

•

Easy access day hatch pod

•

Easy to use rudder with seadog foot pedal system

•

Press-Lock hatch system

•

Bow and Stern paddle parks

•

Curved bulkheads giving more rigidity

•

Comfortable dual density carry handles front and rear

•

258 litres of hatch storage (excluding the day hatch)

•

Comprehensive deck rigging

•

Safety Grab ropes

•

Tamper-proof locking point

•

Shallow V hull with moderate rocker

•

Stern Spare Paddle Park

•

Manufacturers three-year limited warranty

Specifications: Length: 5.18 metres Width: 572 mm Weight: 22.6 kg

A very roomy cockpit and a stable platform, She picked up speed with ease. Perfect for expeditions. - James Fitness

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 25

Join the Yakity Yak Kayak Club n ow Come and join us on one of these adventures • • • • • • • • • • • •

Tutukaka Urupukapuka Abel Tasman Mangakino & the Waikato River Northland Explorer Whangaehu / Manganui-a te-ao Kaituna / Wairoa Rangitikei Gorge Section Lake Karapiro & Pokaiwhenua Stream Waihi Beach Coastline Whanganui River Kadavu Island - Fiji

Enrol at yakityyak.co.nz /join email: info@yakityyak.co.nz A lovely peaceful, exploring paddle on a new section of Lake Ohakuri for me.

Photo by Marg Law

w, and let the adventures begin.

WHY JOIN? • Meet New Friends • Lots of Great Trips • Discover the Great Outdoors • Safety Minded • Opportunities to Improve Your Skills • And much more...

Proudly supported by:

The Whanganui Recipe After a forced absence from my annual Whanganui Trip it was time to sort out myself and make it happen.

And so, in January a few mates and I loaded the utes and disappeared for six days.

By Pete Townend

RRP: $1899

PAGE 28

Issue 92 Summer 2019

www.kayaknz.co.nz

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 29

The recipe for the best trips: The weather needs to be great, however in saying that, some of the past best trips have been in the most extreme weather conditions.

The company must be prepared to generate fun and laughter.

The river must be itself in all its multiple ways, gentle meandering, fast adrenaline, beautiful and stunning.

The food must be plentiful and not what you expect when out in the bush. Roasts and yummies are all compulsory, along with a cool apple cider or a wine and for some a good coffee or whiskey or both to complete the evening.

The locals and tourists bring a huge amount to the trip. They add to the sense of place and belonging and create with the interaction, amazing memories.

The feeling of connection from being in remote places that brings people together. When sharing advice, food or when things don’t go to plan, how seamlessly everyone just helps to ensure that even when trouble looms comradery prevails.

I will let the pictures tell this latest trip story and welcome you to join in on one of our next trips down the mighty Whanganui.

PAGE 30

Issue 92 Summer 2019

www.kayaknz.co.nz

No

w av New ailable i n Zeal a n Viki d @ !! ng kay

aks

.co.

nz

Explore further for less effort with the Bixpy Jet, the world’s most advanced water propulsion system.

Contact your local Viking Kayak Dealer today www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 31

Another Chance to join a Yakity Yak Whanganui River Trip 20th to 26th of April 2019

Welcome to the annual Whanganui River Yakity Yak Club trip, please read

due to work, family and fishing commitments.

He will call you back.

Menu plan

this information carefully and let us know if you have any questions.

This is a wilderness trip with no road access and weather conditions that will be hot to cold, wet to dry, and windy to calm. Conditions can be extreme, please pack accordingly.

There are cabins at some of the camping areas, but it is unlikely that we will stop at them so good tents are essential.

Please note that in six days we cover approximately 120 km and the daily distances are up to 30 km, all downstream so not too difficult, but you should be fit enough to paddle 20 km in a sea kayak. This is an easy Grade Two river with about 150 rapids. These are not difficult and are within the capabilities of confident club members.

Questions, silly or not, will be warmly received

by Peter on 0274 529255. Please leave a message on this number if not answered. He is often unable to answer it for extended periods

Dinner

The Cost The costs for this trip are as follows, shuttles and parking (around $75 each), , camp fees ($120 adults and under 17 free) and food per person (about $150). If you need a kayak or canoe, book at Canoe & Kayak North Shore and if you need help transporting it let me know.

Payment of DOC camp fees are required on booking and the other costs should be paid the week before departure to the leader (me).

As this is a club trip we will need keen club leaders to lead on the river please call Peter if you would like to help.

•

BBQ, salads and potatoes

•

Spaghetti Bolognaise and salads

•

Corn beef and onion sauce, mashed potatoes, and vegies

•

Roast beef, potatoes and vegies

•

Dessert

Custard and fruit salad, pancakes, chocolate pudding,

Porridge Cereal

The spice of life!

Fruit salad

Cheers Peter T

Issue 92 Summer 2019

Roast chicken, pasta and veg

Breakfast

Looking forward to a fun trip with, fun kayaking, sunny skies, camping under the stars, full bellies and lots of laughter.

Bacon & eggs

PAGE 32

•

Lunch Soup and sandwiches.

www.kayaknz.co.nz

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 33

Jump on a Tour Before the Summer is Gone!

Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo’s crystal clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori Rock Carvings.

Soak in the view across the Lake to three live volcanos while you hear the history of the carvings, various Maori legends and facts of the local area from your guide before enjoying rock jumps and a swim in Australasia’s largest freshwater Lake.

An award winning kayaking tour and a must-do while in Taupo!

What our punters say: “Booked to go on an afternoon tour to the carvings but it had to be cancelled due to strong winds so we were given the option to go the next morning which we did. So glad we did!

On a cloudless hot morning after a safety briefing, instruction and kit up we ventured onto the lake which is beautiful in itself.

Rory was an enthusiastic guide and had a good knowledge of the lake and carvings. The trip starts out in a sheltered area so you have time to adjust and gain some confidence before setting out onto the lake proper which can have a bit of a swell on it but the double sea kayaks are stable and In good order. After a good paddle to the carvings which are again in a sheltered area, you beach for tea and cookies which gives you a chance to have a swim too if you want one. Then it’s a paddle back and home. It was a great morning out and the carvings are beautiful and the day was one of the highlights of our holiday. The images taken by Rory were sent through as promised but I do regret not

taking my own camera, it would have been perfectly safe. I recommend buying an iPhone dry case which keeps your phone safe, secure and dry and take some images yourself. A great day out for all the family. “ - Crusty - Buckinghamshire, UK “A great day on the lake!

Highly recommend this - was a lovely afternoon in the sun. Rory was a great guide, really friendly and chatty and told us lots about the lake. It’s a decent time on the water and broken up nicely with coffee on the beach. A great way to spend a sunny afternoon! “ - Edmund Walsh - Bristol, UK

Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip - Taupo One of Taupo’s best kept secrets… the sheer beauty and tranquility found on the crystal clear waters of the Waikato River will take your breath away. Begin your kayaking journey at the source of NZ’s largest river and drift past various islands, nature reserves, swimming spots, and the drop zone of Taupo Bungy before soaking in Natural Hot Pools en route. Complimentary refreshments and photos are included. This is an extremely scenic, guided tour that is perfect for beginners, families, couples and friends.

What our punters say: “A relaxed morning kick off Beautiful trip over the river and great chat with our guide. He is a local and showed us great spots as well as tips for the rest of the day.” - Roughprada “Awesome River Cruise A great trip for young and older!

We all really enjoyed our river kayak cruise, the guide and all staff were awesome!”

- MattB

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

“Great relaxing tour Great afternoon with six others sedately paddling down the Waikato River for two hours with a stop over to view bungy jumpers and relax in hot thermal springs.

Highly recommended for anyone regardless of kayak skill or fitness level.

You only have to get into and out of kayak, lay back and paddle a little bit.”

- KerryOtts

www.kayaknz.co.nz

Marine Reserve Kayak Tour - North Shore Our kayak tour is a fun adventurous trip, perfect for the whole family, a group of friends or work-mates.

The kayak tour starts just 20 minutes north of downtown Auckland in the Long Bay – Okura Marine Reserve. It is bordered by protected native bush, council reserves, historic buildings, pa sites and is filled with natural wonders.

You will explore the Okura Estuary and Karepiro Bay and see some of NZ’s rarest seabirds. You are likely to see fish flying through the air and stingrays as they cruise under your kayak. We will visit and have a snack at one of the earliest settlers cottages, Dacre Cottage and have an opportunity to learn about the history of the area.

Come & enjoy a rare glimpse of what New Zealand was like in the old days.

Canoe & Kayak are vocal supporters of this amazing region and your attendance on these trips helps support community projects as Canoe & Kayak donates for every trip we do.

What our punters say: “A Stunning, Educational Trip Myself & kids (11 & 8 years old) loved our group trip with Peter in the Okura Estuary and Karepiro Bay. Both kids paddled in double kayaks, my 8 year old daughter with me & my 11 year old son with another lady in the group. It is a beautiful and interesting part of Auckland to explore by water. Peter is a knowledgeable, experienced and entertaining guide.

We learnt a lot about the local area & birdlife. The trip included a lovely pitstop for scones & refreshments too! We all loved it. An awesome way to spend half a day. Can highly recommend the trip to others! Many thanks!” - Tracey D, Auckland

“Fabulous Experience It was well worth our trip from Hamilton to join the Marine Reserve Kayak Tour. We took our kids (6 and 9) with us and my husband and I had one of the kids each in double kayaks. The kids paddled some of the time and just enjoyed the ride for the rest of the time! It was a bit over 6 km of paddling and was done at a comfortable pace for our group. We all loved every minute of the trip and enjoyed learning about the marine reserve and the marine life/birds/plants in the reserve. James was a fabulous guide and was passionate about kayaking and also about everything in the marine reserve. The scones he made were so tasty too!! I am so glad that our family have had this experience and I know it was a highlight of the summer holiday for all of us.” - Kate, Hamilton

Biolumminescence Kayak Tour - North Shore This is an exhilarating night paddle. Experience the magical light show put on by the smallest of living sea creatures. Watch as your kayak leaves a glittering wake behind you. Dip your hands in and see the sparkles latch to your hand as you withdraw it from the water.

Be one of the few to see this natural phenomenon.

Also, as the sun sets mullet, flounder and many birds can be seen or heard. Birdlife includes tui, bellbird, kereru, oyster-catcher, pied stilt, reef heron, white-faced heron, dotterel, fantail, grey warbler, kingfisher, harrier hawk, tern, and many more.

Just 20 minutes north of downtown Auckland, the Long bay – Okura Marine Reserve has an abundance of wildlife.

What our punters say: “Amazing! Highly Recommended This is a great kayak trip, very relaxed, perfect paddle for beginners (or advanced, actually). Pete takes it as slow as you want with lots of time to check out the bird life at dusk, some secluded beaches/sand spits in the Okura Estuary, and of course the BIOLUMINESCENCE! The bioluminescence is so pretty and it feels like you are in a Disney movie.

Glowing water off the bow of the boat, blue sparkles when you dip your hands in! It was so amazing, I went out the next day with other friends! www.kayaknz.co.nz

They are still talking about how cool it was. Dont miss this if you have not seen bioluminescence before.

Finally, Pete is a long time resident of Okura, so knows everything about the history of the area. The kayaks are great, you need minimal effort to go fast. There are ZERO waves in the Okura Estuary, so for those who might be unsure, rest assured this is pretty calm stuff.”

- Freednikki, - Basel, Switzerland “Magical tour by moonlight Even though we only saw tiny sparks of bioluminescence, this tour was absolutely magical! We did see flying fish and hints of stingrays which was very cool. The bright sky showing the milky way and the bright moonlight made it a stunning tour. Peter was extremely kind and did everything in his power to make it a wonderful evening. He even brought snacks and drinks :)” - Suzannethomassen- The Hague, Netherlands Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 35

Waitara River Kayak Tour - Taranaki For those slightly more adventurous at heart, this is a scenic trip with exciting Grade Two rapids.

The lower part of the Waitara River is very safe and an ideal introduction to the thrill of white water paddling.

A Grade Two section is available. Allow five hours. Previous kayaking experience necessary, for this section.

What our punters say: “Fantastic afternoon trip on the Waitara River.

Our two girls aged 10 and 8 had an awesome time and my eldest had her own kayak. The rapids were great. Peter, our tour guide was awesome, would highly recommend this trip.”- Tracey Hayes, New Plymoutthree and encouraging at all times. It was a great mix of action, relaxation, fun, and challenge and we would highly recommend this company to anyone. We’ll be back again soon for another fantastic outing!”

- Michelle, New Plymouth

“We took our 3 kids (10, 12, 18 years) on a halfday trip down the Waitara River with this group, and it was fantastic! The guides were very safety conscious, gave clear instructions, and were friendly

Sugar Loaf Island Kayak Tour - Taranaki Receive some basic instructions in the safe waters of the beautiful Ngamotu Beach harbour, before heading out into the open sea towards the Ngamotu/ Sugar Loaf Island Marine Reserve. Here you will enjoy the thrill of close up views of a seal colony in its natural habitat, with the spectacular Taranaki mountain, port and power station as our backdrop.

What our punters say: “Great morning out on the water.

Great trip to Sugar Loaf Islands with kids. Peter a great guide. Loads of seals to spot. Good quality kayaks. Really enjoyable trip.” - Rah, Aberdeen, Scotland “We had a lovely time kayaking out to Sugar Loaf Islands with Peter.

The seals were so adorable, especially the pups. - HCr0ss, New Mexico, USA

“It be seals The water was calm and as we approached Sugar Loaf Island the seals were everywhere! I would rate this kayak trip as excellent.” Michael, Virginia, USA

Are you passionate about paddling?

Join the Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers for: » Serious fun »

Networking with other paddlers

»

Expedition and adventure stories

»

Peer and professional tuition

»

Technical information

»

National sea kayaking festivals

»

Six 24-page magazines per year www.KASK.org.nz

Feb 19.indd 1 PA GE 36

Issue 92 Summer 2019

w w w . k 04-Mar-19 a y a k n z3:05:01 . c o .PM nz

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Tide Waits For No Man Full Moon from Hereheretaura Pa

By James Fitness

Understanding tidal movement is essential in undertaking

Diagram 1: Cause of Tides New Moon

safe navigation.Simply, if there is insufficient depth of water, you may not have enough water to paddle or you may be paddling against a foul tide.

Tides are the periodic rise and fall, or vertical movement of the levels of the world’s oceans. The difference between tides and tidal flows or currents must be appreciated. Tides affect only the depth of water. Tidal flows are the horizontal movement caused by tides, and effect the track and Speed Over Ground (SOG) of a vessel.

Spring Tide

HW

HW

Full Moon

Tides are generated by gravitational forces between the earth, moon and sun, by centrifugal force due to the Earth’s rotation, and by centrifugal force due to the Earth’s solar orbit.

The moon has the greater gravitational effect, some 2.2 times greater than the sun at the Earth’s surface. Because of it’s fluidity, water tends to accumulate on the parts of the Earth’s surface directly toward the moon and on the surfaces directly opposite the moon where centrifugal force of rotation exceeds the force of lunar gravity. Consequently, over all other areas the water levels are reduced. The aquatic bulge follows the moon as it orbits the Earth. A lunar month, the period between one full moon and the next, is 29.5 days.The moon also rotates on its axis once every 29.5 PAGE 38

Issue 92 Summer 2019

HW

HW

What causes tide?

Spring Tide

HW Neap Tide HW Quarter Moon www.kayaknz.co.nz

days in the opposite direction to its orbit, giving the appearance from Earth that it does not rotate.

Because of the Earth’s period of rotation, there are generally two high and two low tides per day at any given place,but they occur at times that change from day to day. The average interval between consecutive high tides is 12 hours 25 minutes. The gravitational effect of the Sun is similar and added to that of the Moon. The tides of largest range are called spring tides, and occur at New Moon, when the Moon and the Sun are in the same direction relative to Earth and at Full Moon, when they are in opposite directions.

The tides of smallest range are called neap tides, and occur at intermediate phases of the Moon, at seven and a quarter days after new or full moon, in the first and last quarters, when the moon and sun are separated at 90 deg. and the gravitational effect of the sun diminishes that of the moon. The tidal range or the diffence in tidal height between High Water (HW) and Low Water (LW), is greater on a spring tide than that of a neap tide. A spring tide has higher high tides and lower low tides as the water has a stronger pull towards the moon and therefore a reduction in the height of the low tide.

This can be seen in Diagram 2, which shows the change in tidal height around the Mean Sea Level.

Chart datum is the water level that depths displayed on a nautical chart are measured from. Chart datum is normally the lowest astronomical tide possible.

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Diagram 2: Tide Heights

Tidal Flow or Current Tidal flow is caused by the movement of water from one location on the earth’s surface to another due to the orbit of the moon.

The rate of flow is not constant, it increases toward mid-tide before decreasing as slack water approaches. As a rule of thumb, the change of tidal height and the speed of the flow over this period can be calculated using the Rule of Twelfths. In the first hour the volume of water moving increases by 1/12, the second hour 2/12, the third hour 3/12, the fourth hour 3/12, the fifth hour 2/12 and the sixth hour 1/12. So ,1-2-3-3-2-1, equalling 12 units.

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2nd Hour

3rd Hour

4th Hour

5th Hour

6th Hour

2/12

1/12

15%

10%

1/12

2/12

3/12

10%

15%

25%

Diagram 3: Rule of Twelfths

Volume of Water

Slack Water

Slack Water

Mid -Tide. Max Flow

1st Hour

3/12 25%

If you know the tidal range is 3.0 m and the charted height is 1.5 m, the depth will reduce in the first 1st hour by 300mm (10% of 3.0 m) , in the 2nd hour by 450 mm, the 3rd - 750 mm, 4th - 750 mm, 5th - 450 mm and 6th - 300 mm. See Diagram 3.

Rule of Twelfths Volume by Percentage

So what?

We can use this information to work out when the best time to paddle around a headland or through a passage, so we’re not fighting the tide. In fact you can use it to your advantage.

A 5 knot flow can be divided up in the same way, so the 1st hour will flow at 0.5 knots , 2nd hour 2.5 kn and so on.

Diagram 4: Speed Over Ground

Diagram 5: Course Over Ground

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Or you can plot a course to paddle across the tide, effectively ferry gliding across the tidal flow to get to where we want to go.

Diagram 6: Plotting a Course

Speed Over Ground (SOG) is the actual speed you travel across the sea bed.

In Diagram 4, you can see if you paddle with the tide, you’ll increase your SOG to 3 knots (your 1 Kn plus 2 Kn tide). Paddle against it, and you could be going backwards!

Course Over Ground (COG) refers to the actual course you travel across the sea bed.

When paddling across a current you’ll need to alter your course to take into account the current, heading upstream and ferry gliding along your desired course, in order to reach your destination. Your COG is your desired course from point A to B, but your heading may be 300 upstream of your desired course.

This can be plotted before you leave home.

If the passage will take approx. 1 hour, draw a vector for a one-hour passage on a chart. See Diagram 6.

Plot your desired course from A to B. Put two arrow heads on this.

You know the speed of the tide in knots, draw a line in the direction of the flow. For a 2-knot tide, 2 miles long. Put three arrow heads on this line.

Using dividers, measure out your boat speed in miles. E.g 3 knots = 3 miles/ hour.

From the end of the tidal vector, mark where the distance crosses the

desired course (Track). Draw a line with 1 arrow head. This is the actual course required to reach your destination. Using a ruler and the compass rose, you can now take a bearing off the chart to get the the course to steer. For a magnetic bearing, use the inner compass rose. This shows the magnetic bearing (as on a compass) as opposed to the outer ring that show True bearings (north at the top as on a chart).

So you can see, understanding tides and how they can affect your plans and is crucial to successful journey planning.

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Kathmandu Coast to Coast 2019

By Roger Devonshire

I’ve always thought that the Coast to Coast would be a once in a lifetime event that I’d love to do, so at the age 64 and having never kayaked before I decided to enter a team with two of my mates. With the race only nine months away, I knew I had a bit of training to get done before the big day.

The first few months of training were purely self-taught, mostly on the Waitematā Harbour.

I had my first training with Canoe & Kayak four months out from race day. I got my Grade Two cert and then did three days of guided trips down the Mohaka, about six trips total. This experience was invaluable, training on the river was very different to anything I’d experienced before. I was unable to do a guided trip down the Waimakariri before the event, so I had no idea what to expect. In some ways I was thankful having not done the practice run and enjoyed the surprise. The kayak I used on race day was a Barracuda Interface and a two-piece wing paddle, both are now tried and tested.

On race day I was full of nerves and excitement for the challenge ahead, and boy, was it a challenge all right! The river was extremely low and everybody was running out of water in the same spots, at times having to get out and drag the kayak along.

Each bend presented more rocks and rapids, with support crews lining the gnarly corners. There’s no doubt that it’s a long way to kayak and for a moment there I thought it was never going to end. I was exhausted and absolutely ecstatic to see the finish. Overall it was a fantastic experience and we all had a great time.

I’m now totally hooked on kayaking and already back training for next year.

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Issue 92 Summer 2019

PAGE 45

Pucรณn, Chile

A Village that Lies at the Foot of an Active Volcano

Sam in Perfect Storm- Photo Alex Nicks

By Sam Ricketts

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Callaghan Creek- Photo by Kieran Brown www.kayaknz.co.nz

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Patagonia Chilena, in southern Chile, is a land of endless temperate r a info r e s t s . I t b o a s t s t h e A n d e s mountain range which bursts with active volcanoes and quality glacial rivers. Driving south from Chile’s capital Santiago are countless rivers to drive over and in my opinion this country has the highest concentration of classic runnable white water and waterfalls in the world.

Ten hours south of Santiago is one of Chile's most famous resort towns, Pucón. Pucón is surrounded by stunning volcanoes and sits at the foot of ‘Volcan Villarica’ which last erupted in the summer of 2015 giving off a tremendous lightshow. Plumes of smoke 28 km high bellowed out of the crater, tossing and spitting lava out in an amazing spontaneous fountain. During this eruption the main river flowing from the volcano itself, the Rio Turbio, flooded overnight due to the rapid melting of the ice and snow, and the resulting flash flood was so fierce that the highway bridge connecting Pucón to the south was destroyed. The town was on standby for evacuation and we were constantly on our toes anxiously listening for the alarm that sounded at midday every day. Luckily however, the lava flowed over the back side of the volcano saving the town from a disaster reminiscent of Pompeii.

This was a crazy thing to experience firsthand.

Pucón has a huge increase in population over the summer months, being a small town of about 28,000 people it packs up pretty quickly and stays packed. I spent eight months living in Pucón over the 2014/15 summer season with the sole purpose of paddling as much of the amazing white water I could find. Arriving in the early spring was ideal for catching the first snowmelt, there was a whole lot of kayaking going on. The Puesco River was one of our main go-to rivers.

The Puesco is a really busy and continuous 5 km section of Grade Four and Five. The water is drinkable, it passes through ancient forest, and

is shadowed by jagged peaks. Lanin, another much bigger volcano a little further away from Pucón’s Villarica is the Puesco’s main water source, and you can see this spectacular cone volcano covered in a thick blanket of snow as you drive to the put in. Before the river dried up I participated in the first Puesco Fest - three days of live music, Grade Five racing and festivities one of the best events I've ever experienced! We made the most of the water before the snowpack receded mid- summer, but the kayaking season doesn't stop there.

Hydroelectric projects threaten 59 rivers and streams of Pucón and surrounding districts.

Natural flood control will disappear, and risks of flood downstream will increase. It was argued these projects would have created 300 temporary jobs, however it will hinder the natural beauty of this magnificent river and threaten the traditional lifestyles of its inhabitants forever.

It's a Shangri-La for the traveling kayaker and a perfect place to progress your skills in creeking and waterfall kayaking.

There was a big dam proposed on the Puesco, but with two years of constant fighting by the kayaking community, Puesco fest and the local Mapuche tribes, it was successfully stopped.

This can't be said for the other rivers in the area, but it is a great start.

There are so many creeks and park-n-huck waterfalls it's hard to pick some days... creeks and rivers including the Fuy, the Nedvados and the Palgiun, Gol gol, Llancague, Puesco, and all of their sistering valleys and tributaries are classics. They all have amazing waterfalls and rapids with the odd portage. It's a ShangriLa for the traveling kayaker and a perfect place to progress your skills in creeking and waterfall kayaking.

I worked at a rafting company as a safety kayaker on the upper Rio Trankura for three months. It was busy, and I paddled amazing

Grade Four and Five waterfalls every day for work including a big rapid called ‘Salto Mariman’.

This rapid is too big for the rafts, so the guides walk the customers around and rope the empty rafts down alone. Meanwhile, I was able to run the rapid, even a couple of times per trip. This was so beneficial to my kayaking, lots of busy moves to make in sequence and I was able to do it every day, training to be ready for the big rivers in the south and saving some cash for the couple months I was going to spend down there. I highly recommend Pucón as a place to work and paddle if you're looking for a kayaking vacation and an opportunity to make some extra cash on the side... I suggest you learn at least basic Spanish to make your life a little easier starting off, although the Chileans like to speak very quickly and use a lot of slang; they are also known to have one of the funniest and wild accents in the whole of South America. The nightlife in Pucón is constant and vibrant, and kayakers are very popular around town. This is where all of the best kayaking missions get planned and where you might find yourself a crew and an adventure.

After the new year water is usually low in Pucón, although you can sneak in a couple of runs when the odd rain passes through. The Rio Palgiun is a great run close to town and it has multiple sections, starting with the 30-metre-tall ‘Salto Palgiun’. This fall has only been run by a handful of people and has injured many of them.

The rest is pool drop with tight gorges. This river used to be home to one of the most iconic 25 metre waterfalls on earth: the ‘Middle Palgiun’.

But in 2014 the pool above this amazing waterfall fell through itself, thus changing the waterfall forever. It is now a 30+ metre hole in the riverbed, where the whole river plummets into a giant hole in the earth. This feature has added a must-make take out at the end of a classic section - the eddy is easy to catch, but it is much scarier to run.

Pucón has got to be one of the most classic destinations for white water kayaking. Go there and experience it for yourself, I will definitely be back.

Sam scouting Zeta, Photo- Alex Nicks PAGE 48

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