Paddlateers

“Paddlateers” are a mixed (male & female) team of all ages. Our emphasis is on fun, inclusion, and putting our best race possible on the water.

We aim to be Christchurch's most welcoming and inclusive dragon boat club, where individuals, couples, families, and friends discover a lifelong passion for paddling and achieve whatever level of success they aspire to.

We want to be known not just for results on the water but for the experience we offer. A newcomer will feel just as valued as a national (Black Dragons) representative. Families see the club as a place where they can spend time together, improve their health, and form lasting friendships. Competitive athletes have a clear pathway to excel, while social paddlers always feel they have a place on the team.

The Aoraki season starts after Daylight Saving (end of September) but our training starts at the end of October, once the weather is more stable.

Paddlateers train each Tuesday evening at Lake Rua, for an hour on the water for technique and strategy training. Lake Rua is the eastern half of Lake Roto Kohatu, near Christchurch Airport. Access it from Lakes Way, off Greywacke Rd. See below for a map. We meet at 6:15 pm near the three containers, and get off the water at 7:30 pm. After Tuesday training there is an option to head for the ‘Highway Inn’ for a beer, some awesome food and mean yarns. 

We also paddle on Sunday mornings on the Avon River from 10am in New Brighton, especially for social time, and to build our fitness. Sunday mornings typically finish with coffee in New Brighton. 

Our team provides a life-jacket (PFD), top-of-the-line paddles and Racing T-shirts, at the Regattas. We go to all the Regattas, and the season ends after the National Regatta in early April, then a get-together at the end of May.

Paddlateers culture is built on inclusion, quality coaching, and community. We look to attract new members, retain existing ones, and support long-term success both on and off the water. We invite new people to “give it a go” with our friendly team in our boat with no obligation.

To learn more, email paddlateers@gmail.com or contact:
Derrick Elliott (Sweep & Manager) - 021 127 0077
Noel Anderton (Coach & Secretary) - 021 392 665