Help Kōtuku represent Aotearoa/NZ at the Waka Ama World Championships in Hawai'i August 2024

Kōtuku is a 14-year-old Waka Ama paddler who lives in Ōtorohanga. Kōtuku started paddling Waka Ama seriously just 4 months ago. In November 2023, she trialled for Erina Wehi-Barton, who led a campaign for Maniapoto whānau to the Waka Ama Nationals at Karāpiro in January 2024. Kōtuku was selected for the J16 W6 crew. They paddled under Te Ara Tika Water Sports Club (Auckland).

As part of their Nationals Campaign, Kōtuku’s team participated at the AROCA Regionals, Auckland (they earned silver - W12 500m); & the Ngāti Rēhia Pre-Nationals Regatta at Kerikeri.

At Nationals, Kōtuku’s team exceeded expectations to earn a place in the Semi-Finals W6 500m. Although, it wasn’t enough to qualify for Worlds. Still, the crew & their whānau left on a high; proud & determined to try again next year.

In February 2024, Kōtuku’s team earned silver at the Te Toki Voyaging Trust Regatta, Hamilton, in the J16 W6 250m & J16 W6 500m. They were rapt & looked forward to planning their next campaign.

Yet, a big surprise awaited Kōtuku that day. She was invited to join Waikato Dragon Boat & Waka Ama Association J16 W6 crew who had qualified for Worlds 2024. They needed 1 more crew member to compete. They were impressed by Kōtuku’s natural ability & offered her a place.

For Kōtuku, this was an opportunity of a lifetime! Of course, she accepted! However, this leaves Kōtuku & her whānau with just 4 ½ months to raise the necessary funds for this exciting event. She would humbly appreciate your support!