Rangatahi Shine at Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge

On October 24th, a group of 18 rangatahi, primarily from Westland High School, and six kaimahi embarked on an exciting journey to Te Anau, where they proudly represented Te Hono o Nga Waka’s Youth Development Program in the Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge.

This event marked the second competitive appearance for the youth Waka Ama teams this year. After first taking to the water in Dunedin during the Ice Breaker Challenge in June, they gathered last weekend in Te Anau to participate in this unique challenge. The teams are gearing up to compete again in two weeks at Waka Te Tasman in Kaiteriteri.

In a significant first for Te Tai o Poutini, these rangatahi teams are making history as the inaugural Waka Ama representatives from the West Coast, and their results are cause for celebration. Across several competitive categories, they demonstrated outstanding skill, determination, and teamwork, achieving impressive placements:

- **Kaimahi Open Mixed 5km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Boys 1.5km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Girls 1.5km** - **3rd Place**

- **J19 Boys 3km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Girls 3km** - **3rd Place**

“We are all immensely proud of their achievements, and it's a proud moment for Te Tai o Poutini,” says Hayley from Rangatahi Development. This success highlights the dedication of both the paddlers and the support network that has backed them every step of the way.

Special thanks go to the Ruia Fund, Te Hono o Nga Waka, the Ministry of Youth Development, WestREAP, the whānau, and the wider community for their ongoing support, which has made these accomplishments possible.

Congratulations to all involved, especially our talented young paddlers! We look forward to seeing their continued success in the upcoming event in Kaiteriteri.