Whaikaha Waka Ama
Whaikaha means to have strength, to have ability, and to be enabled. Especially in health and sport, whaikaha reflects a strengths-based, approach to disability, focusing on participation, voice, and accessibility.
Whaikaha Waka Ama - Info Hub
This hub is a central space for our waka ama whānau to learn, grow, and deepen their understanding of inclusion while upholding our values of manaakitanga, hauora, whanaungatanga, and tū tangata. The purpose of this hub is to support our Waka Ama whānau in ensuring an inclusive and accessible space for whaikaha participants and their whānau.
The Whaikaha Waka Ama Info Hub is a central place for clubs, regions, paddlers, and officials to access resources, learning, and support — all with the aim of getting more of our tāngata whaikaha whānau out on the water
Te Rōpū Whaikaha - Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ Disability Working Group
This rōpū was established to represents tāngata whaikaha (people with disabilities) involved in waka ama. This rōpū works with Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ to help make waka ama more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The scope of the rōpū includes the following:
- Give tāngata whaikaha a voice in waka ama and represent their views.
- Share advice and feedback with Waka Ama NZ from a disability perspective.
- Advocate for tāngata whaikaha across the waka ama community.
- Help create and carry out a Disability Plan (Rautaki Whaikaha) with Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ
- Support the delivery of this plan when needed
How to get involved
Whaikaha Waka Ama is focused on making paddling accessible and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re a paddler, coach, whānau member, or club leader, there are many ways to take part:
For participants
If you are confident contact with a waka ama club in your area that supports whaikaha paddlers. Many clubs run inclusive programmes and can guide you as you get started. Find a Club – Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ
Alternatively you can register your interest via [email protected]
For clubs
Contact your local ParaFed organisation or Halberg Trust advisor for further inclusion training and local opportunities to be involved.
ParaFeds are regionally based not-for-profit organisation encouraging and supporting physically disabled people to participate in Sport, Recreation and Play. You can find a list of organisations here: ParaFed organisations
Whaikaha Inclusive Paddling
Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ offers a small selection of adaptive equipment that clubs can loan for Have a Go Days, helping paddlers and clubs create more inclusive experiences.
Tāngata whaikaha often bring their own equipment as needed, and the attached Waka Ama Whaikaha Inclusive Paddling Checklist supports clubs and organisers to confidently run accessible sessions.
The attached checklist covers pre-event planning, equipment setup, people and safety considerations, and post-event follow-up, ensuring every session is welcoming, safe, and enjoyable. Essential resources include W12 or 4x4 waka, lifejackets, paddles, supportive seating and strapping, mats or beach wheelchairs, hydration stations, shade, and safety equipment. Following these guidelines helps clubs provide a fully inclusive paddling experience for tāngata whaikaha and participants with diverse needs.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
Inclusivity Information
Sport NZ Inclusivity Hub
The Sport NZ Disability Inclusivity Hub supports diversity, equity, and inclusion in play, active recreation, and sport throughout the country. This hub offers information and resources focused on disability inclusion
Inclusive Language
This info highlights how the words we use shape attitudes and experiences in sport. This practical guide explains respectful language along with sport terminology for a more inclusive sport environmentHalberg Inclusion Training
Halberg Inclusion Training gives schools and clubs the skills to create inclusive PE and club environments. Courses are 1.5 hours, tailored to you, and completely free!Coaching Resources and Courses
Paralympics NZ LevelUp
LevelUp helps coaches build confidence, knowledge, and skills to coach whaikaha athletes. It features a series of online modules designed to support inclusive coaching practices and athlete development.
CoachMate Halberg
CoachMate is a free programme for coaches and activity leaders across New Zealand. It offers practical guidance, tools, and training to help make sport and recreation inclusive for people with disabilities.ASAPD Training
The ASAPD (The Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability) is a free, self-paced online program that supports coaches to include people with disabilities in sport. It offers practical advice, real-life examples, and guidance from athletes and coaches.Whaikaha Spotlight
Peter Cowan
The journey and success of Paralympian Peter Cowan (#231) exemplify the collective spirit and impact of Whaikaha Waka Ama. Drawing on the whakatauki, “Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini” Success is not the work of an individual, it is the work of many - Peter’s achievements reflect not only his personal dedication but also the strength of the wider waka ama community and kaupapa that has supported him. Peter’s rise to the Paris 2024 podium and ongoing representation of Aotearoa at events like the ICF World Championships demonstrate to only his leadership but the amazing support systems in place through his coach Myk Nuku and their respective whānau, clubs and hapori.
You can read more about Peter and his incredible journey via the links below
ParaFed Waikato - Water Sports Day 2025
