Whitewater Slalom Course

In 2007, Whitewater Slalom New Zealand and Kawerau District Council formed a partnership to further develop canoe slalom racing in Kawerau and in November of that year, Council approved the development of the Waterhouse Street Reserve section of the Tarawera River as a permanent Whitewater Slalom Course.

“It is an ideal venue for both training and racing as we can potentially utilise three sites on the river catering for many levels of paddling.  The water is consistent and Kawerau is a central venue for the majority of the North Island paddlers" said Andy Fuller, one of NZ’s top coaches.

Clearing of the pest plants and rubbish that encroached to the water line was undertaken during the 2007/08 summer, and basic walking and viewing tracks established.

Significant remedial work was carried out by Environment Bay of Plenty on a large slip on the lower course, which has considerably enhanced both the river and the surrounding banks and reserve.

Planting of suitable native species has been undertaken and permanent tracks and slalom gates installed.   "The gate infrastructure is fantastic" says Andy Fuller "It can take up to four hours to set a full course but the permanent structures installed at Kawerau means we set the course within an hour and changes can be made within minutes."

The clearing and planting work also undertaken by the Kawerau District Council has given spectators a fantastic view along the whole course and the retaining and track work not only allows competitors and officials easy access but provides seating for spectators.