Laurie is part of the whakapapa of waka ama in Aotearoa and has been a staunch supporter of the waka ama kaupapa since the revival of the sport in the early 90’s

Laurie got involved in those early waka wma days, laying lanes for regatta, driving support boats, organising events and supporting local clubs to grow and flourish.

Laurie and his beloved Te Waiariki Purea Trust have been involved with the Waka Ama Secondary School Nationals since its inception in 2002, laying the lanes for the very first event at Orakei Basin and taking on the role of hosts in Rotorua as the event grew and grew.

This week coming, would have been the 21st year of the Waka Ama Secondary School Nationals – had it not been for Covid. And the event would not have been so successful had it not been for Laurie’s commitment and support.

Laurie was currently serving as a Board Member of Waka Ama New Zealand (since 2017) and has played an instrumental role in the development of our new strategic plan.

We appreciate all that Laurie has done for waka ama and send our thoughts and aroha to his whānau and friends at this time.

Haere ra e hoa, haere atu ra