Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge

Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge

Sept 2/3 2023

Fornerly known as the Poor Knights Crossing, the Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge is an open ocean downwind paddling event for surf ski, waka ama and SUP competitors.

This race is part of the Canoe Racing NZ Darcy Price Ocean series and is regarded as one of the most challenging events on the ocean racing calendar in Aotearoa.

Competitor safety is second to none as is the pre and post event hospitality. 

Official event powhiri and safety briefing is at Schnappa Rock Restaurant and Cafe in Tutukaka on Friday Sept 1 at 8pm.  All paddlers are required to attend this briefing. Please also note that Sunday Sept 3 is set aside as a lay day in case conditions are unsuitable on Saturday

This is a challenging open ocean distance event.  All competitors must be competent in hazardous open ocean conditions.  You may be asked to provide evidence of your competence prior to your race entry being accepted.

Note race distance my vary depending on conditions but prepare for a 30km distance race. On Race day you will be transported by coachline to the start line and your equipment will be trailered.

Course maps (course direction is determined by wind and conditions on race day)