Waka Ama Long Distance Nationals
06 May
Celebrating Our Rangatahi who competed in Waka Ama Long Distance Nationals Success for Te Tai Poutini!
A huge mihi and congratulations to the incredible rangatahi who represented Te Tai Poutini at the Waka Ama Long Distance Nationals in Porirua Wellington! Our current and former Westland High School students showcased their strength, skill, and determination on the national stage, competing in the W6 J16 and W6 Open 8-10km races up against the best in the country.
Our Amazing Competitors
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Piata Ruru-Iraia
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Harmony Burns
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El-Alamein Meihana-Whitile
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Monaro Morgan-Vaafusu
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Likaia Te Whata
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Tiare Mason
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Jett Tauwhare
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Kingston Fanslow
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Kohu Anderson
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Haeata Anderson
These rangatahi have trained tirelessly, demonstrating dedication, teamwork, and their aroha for waka ama. Their hard work has paid off with outstanding results: 3rd, 4th and 7th Place.
Competing at this level is no small feat, and their achievements are a testament to their strength, resilience, and whanaungatanga.
Next Challenge: Dunedin in 3 Weeks!
The journey doesn’t stop here—our waka ama whānau will be back on the water in Dunedin in just three weeks’ time. We know they’ll continue to make Te Tai Poutini proud!
A special thank you to Westland High School for their support, particularly with transport, helping our rangatahi reach this prestigious event. It takes a village to nurture such talent, and we’re grateful for the school’s ongoing encouragement.
To our waka ama stars, you are inspirations! Your passion and perseverance show what can be achieved with hard work and heart. Keep paddling strong, and we’ll be cheering you on every stroke of the way!
Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui! (Be strong, be brave, be steadfast!)
We look forward to following their journey as they prepare for Dunedin and more great things ahead!
Ngā mihi nui
Hayley Smith
