Our whānau

What to bring for your waka experience

FAQs / Pātai

• Will I get wet?

  Most probably. You will get wet feet getting into the waka and there could be splashing from sea and paddle. It’s all part of the fun!

• Why do I need to take water?

  It is wise to hydrate when in the waka. You might be having too much fun to notice that you’re exercising but there is some physical effort involved, so it’s a good idea to have water handy.

• Will I need to wear a lifejacket?

  Yes, that is part of our safety procedure. We supply lifejackets.

• Do I have to be young and fit to do this?

  Paddling a waka is something you can do sitting down! Because a waka team shares the work, age and physical fitness aren’t as important as they might be in other activities. Just relax, do what you can and enjoy being part of a team.

• What happens if the weather's bad?

  Please refer to our Cancellation Policy.

• I have a bad back. Will I find paddling uncomfortable?

  Sitting in a waka is comfortable and easier on the hamstrings than sitting in a kayak. There are no back rests, however. Only you know the extent of your back issues, so only you can assess whether or not paddling in a waka will aggravate the problem. If you are unsure, we recommend caution.

• I don't know anything about Maori culture and I'm concerned I might offend someone

  Please don’t worry! By sharing tikanga Māori (correct Māori etiquette), we want to give you a wonderful, cultural experience. It’s easy, relaxed and not at all confronting.

• Are there any risks I need to be aware of?

  Risk disclosure
  Participating in our double hull waka experience has a low risk level. It is however an outdoor adventure activity, therefore participants are exposed to variations in weather conditions which all have an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this water-based activity include but are not limited to; Personal Injury (seasickness, heat stroke, hypothermia, drowning), Natural Weather Events (Flooding, Fire, Earthquake, Tsunami), and Property Damage (water damage /salt water submersion). Waka Abel Tasman mitigates these risks through thorough preparation and adherence to a detailed Risk Identification and Management System. This includes providing you with the necessary information, training and safety equipment to participate in our activities.

  You are personally responsible for listening to our directions, adhering to our advice, and making responsible decisions to keep yourself safe.

  Additionally, we reserve the right to modify, alter, or cancel activities at any given time if we feel your safety or the safety of others may be compromised.