DAME LISA CARRINGTON ON THE NORTH ISLAND

The Olympian reflects on a lifetime spent exploring New Zealand by water

I grew up by the beach at Ōhope, a town in the Bay of Plenty, so being out on the water, whether surfing, fishing or swimming, was always fun. Kayaking was a natural extension of that, so I decided to make it my primary sport when I was 17.

I’m grateful I’ve so far earned six Olympic medals — five gold, one bronze — but there are always areas to improve. It’s about getting every ounce of learning and growth out of the opportunities we have.

It was humbling to be recognised as one of the most influential Māori sports personalities in New Zealand and made a Dame in 2022. It’s a bonus if people are inspired by what I do, but I find inspiration in seeing others working hard to do their absolute best, too; doing things that make them uncomfortable but have true reward on the other side.

I’ve paddled at regattas from London to Tokyo, but there’s still no doubt New Zealand is home to some of the best waterways, lakes and coastlines in the world. We must continue to preserve and protect our natural environment because it’s unlike anywhere else.

Kayaking is a growing sport here, and it’s a good way to discover things you otherwise couldn’t. For instance, Lake Tarawera has hot pools that can only be accessed by water. If you follow the shoreline of Lake Taupō, our largest lake, you’ll discover parts you can’t see on land. If you’re fit, the route from Auckland to Rangitoto Island is challenging but so worth it. My favourite part is hiking to the summit of Mount Rangitoto afterwards and looking back for a stunning view of the skyline. lisacarrington.co.nz

The high-octane Hukafalls Jet experience explores the North Island’s Huka Falls on the Waikato River