From 2027, the minimum age for Taitamariki competitors at the Waka Ama Sprint Nationals will be 7 years old (turning 8 within the year of competition).

This change has been made with the safety, wellbeing, and confidence of our tamariki in mind. The ability for 5 and 6 year olds to safely control the waka - particularly in windy conditions - can be very challenging and often places unnecessary pressure and stress on our youngest paddlers. There is a significant difference in capability and development between a 5 year old and a 10 year old, and this update aims to create a more balanced and positive racing environment for all tamariki which aligns with the principles of Balance is Better.

By increasing the minimum age to 7 years old, we allow for:

• Greater physical development and confidence on the water
  
• Improved waka control and safety
  
• A smaller age and development gap within the Taitamariki grade
  

Beginning in 2027, the event will commence one day earlier on Saturday the 16th January with the pōwhiri followed by Taitamariki racing.

This change will help us better spread out junior racing events and reduce pressure around parking, logistics, and scheduling across the week. It will also support the continued growth of the event into the future. This updated structure will provide more space for racing

divisions, improve event flow, and allow the kaupapa to continue growing sustainably in 2027 and beyond.

The proposed format may look like the following - please note this is dependent on entries

The intermediate division is intended for paddlers who are able to race independently, therefore support paddlers will no longer be permitted. This approach aligns with the expectation that paddlers competing at a National level have the experience and capability to manage race conditions safely and independently. Support paddlers will still remain in place for Taitamariki W12 and W6 divisions. Where support paddlers are required, consideration also needs to be given to whether conditions are suitable for participation.

In order to ensure a high level of safety, WAANZ will increase the number of safety craft on the water during the Intermediate and Taitamariki events.

As participation continues to increase, some W6 regional qualification events will become necessary for Sprint Nationals 2028.

A quota system will also be established, meaning only regions with divisions exceeding their allocated quota would need to hold regional qualification events prior to Nationals. WAANZ will work alongside regions to implement this.

This will also provide paddlers with more opportunities to race locally leading into Nationals.

WAANZ will work closely with regions as we plan for the continued growth of Sprint Nationals and support the implementation of any qualification processes

If you have any questions regarding the above updates, please speak with your club in the first instance. Clubs can then liaise directly with WAANZ as required.

All event information can be found here: 2027 Sprint Nationals

Ngā mihi