About us

Turangawaewae Waka Sports Club (TWS) was established in 2005, under the guidance of Turangawaewae Whaanau and Hoturoa Kerr (Te Toki Voyaging Trust) to meet the needs of the community.

Annually membership numbers range 200 to 250 registered club members, with many in the Waikato competing in the regional, national, and international level at Waka Ama competitions under the Regional Waka Ama body, Te Puku o Te Ika.

Our programme

TWS offers a comprehensive training programme catering to various age groups and skill levels. Training sessions are held at the riverside of Turangawaewae Marae, with schedules as follows:​

Taitama (Midget Boys)

• Coaches: Taipu Paki (C), Maehe Paki (M)
• Training Times: Wednesday 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Taitamaahine (Midget Girls)

• Coaches: Ringa Muru (C), Kirikowhai Arama (M)
• Training Times: Monday & Thursday 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Intermediate Girls

• Coaches: Tangitehau Thomson (C), Roger Kennard (C)
• Training Times: Tuesday & Thursday (Contact for specific times)

J16 Boys

• Coach: Pura Hope (C)
• Training Times: Tuesday & Thursday 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

J16 Girls (Mapera Tuakana)

• Coach: Mapera Naera (C)
• Training Times: Tuesday & Thursday 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM; Sunday 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

J16 Girls (Tangi/Roger)

• Coach: Tangitehau Thomson (C)
• Training Times: Friday 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

What you need to know

For adults interested in hiring or using a W1 Waka, club membership and a minimum of 5 years paddling experience are required. Juniors must have bookings made by their club coach or manager. ​