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.

The consistency of water flow of the Tarawera River saw Kawerau hosting several more competitions over the 2007/08 Summer Festival of Kayaking than planned. Positive comments on the potential of the venue were received from officials, competitors and spectators alike.

Planting of suitable native species commenced in July 2008 and permanent tracks and slalom gates will be installed in Spring 2008 to be ready for the kayaking season in November.

For further information, download the Development Report for a copy of the project plan.