Be part of the waka whanau

The Waitakere Outrigger Canoe Club (WOCC) recently celebrated their 25th anniversary and are now encouraging more west Aucklanders to pick up a paddle and try their hand at waka ama.

Currently based out of the Te Atatu Boat Club the WOCC compete on both the regional and national circuits year round.

Club president Boyd Broughton says the unique sport offers people of all ages a chance to ‘‘be a part of one big whanau’’ while working towards a healthier lifestyle.

Waka ama is essentially outrigger canoeing, in vessels designed like those used in the Pacific Islands for centuries.

‘‘While this sport is waterbased a huge component for our club is land training,’’ says Broughton.

‘‘Staying in shape and supporting healthy lifestyles and nutrition is a massive part of what we do.’’

He says, however, that first and foremost safety ‘‘particularly among young paddlers’’, is the club’s top focus.

‘‘All members acknowledge that for parents to trust us with their precious children in the ocean is something we take very seriously and our priority is safety at all times,’’ he says.

For those interested in joining Waitakere for competitive fitness ‘‘or whanau reasons’’ this summer, email waitakereocc@gmail.com.