The 2023 Waka Ama Sprint Nationals will attract 3,600 competitors, and some 13,000 spectators for the weeklong event. While competitors come from all cultures and walks of life, there is a predominantly Māori and Pacific Island base within the sport.
The Waka Ama Sprint Nationals have been running successfully for 32 years, and
participation has been increasing consistently. Sadly, for the first time in its 32 years the 2022 Sprint Nationals were cancelled due to Covid-19 and paddlers across New Zealand missed taking part in the biggest regatta on the New Zealand calendar.
In 2023 Sprint Nationals will be held over 7 days from 15th-21st January at the Mighty River Domain, Lake Karāpiro, Cambridge. This event will be the coming together of the waka ama whānau after a disruptive 2 years. Click here for more information