Whitewater
The Buller catchment centred around Murchison gives you to access the excellent range of paddling (grade 1-4) within 20mins drive of the town. The Buller River, being lake-fed, is warmer than most rivers and has less extreme flows. This means that its many sections can be paddled all year and in most weather. The Mid-Matakitaki River (see picture right) and the Lower-Matakitaki River are particularly popular runs. Rivers close to the Nelson area include the Motueka River (several sections are very good for beginners) and the Wairoa River (great intermediate-advanced section after rain). The club has occasional trips further afield such as to Marlborough, West Coast and Golden Bay.
Joining up with the club will teach you, not only the skills to manoevre your kayak down rapids, but to recognise and manage the risks. For example, trees and debris in the river are a common hazard, but are usually very avoidable. A full range of skill levels is catered for, although the majority of whitewater members are beginner or intermediate.
Whitewater Beginners’ Course September/October 2010
This course is designed for people with no kayaking experience who wish to partake in white water kayaking. Participants will learn the basic skills required to control their kayak, be made aware of the hazards that exist and how to deal with them and will gain knowledge about the equipment used. While we can’t teach you how to have fun, there will be heaps of chances to have a good time!
The course involves time in the pool, learning skills in a controlled (and warmer) environment, as well as trips on the river.
The cost for the course is $150 + membership to the club. This cost includes the hire of kayaks for the duration of the course and entry to the pool.
After the course is finished there are several trips suited to beginners. These trips start out on easy rivers and increase in difficulty (in small amounts) as the season progresses. The club also has sea kayaking trips, many of which are suitable for newcomers. Rolling sessions are also offered on Tuesday evenings throughout the season.
Dates are
Tuesday 28 September (evening)
Thursday 30 September (evening)
Saturday 2 October (all day)
Sunday 3 October (all day)
Sunday 10 October (all day)
For more information email Diane at beginnercourses@nelsonkayakers.co.nz or phone 548 2026
Numbers are limited and the remaining spaces filling fast. Book now to avoid missing out.
For Beginner Courses Contact: Diane Winter on (03) 548 2026 or email beginnercourses@nelsonkayakers.co.nz
For General Information Contact: Karen Bruce on (03) 546 5098 or email whitewater@nelsonkayakers.co.nz
For Leaders & Seconds: Use this trip planner and safety briefing sheet for safety's sake (forward on to whitewater officer when completed)
Subsidised River rescue courses with NZ Kayak School are available for members who are grade 2 paddlers, with a good roll AND who are willing to help second or lead trips in the future. Minimum of 6 participants required. Contact the club safety officer or president, or the New Zealand Kayak School The subsidy is about 60% of the course.
Whitewater Trip Photos