Multisport Kayak Course WEEKEND only

Weekend-Only Kayak Training and Certification Course

Duration: Two days (weekend)

Embark on our weekend-only (Saturday & Sunday) Multisport Kayak Training Course, designed to sharpen your kayaking skills and prepare you for the Coast to Coast Grade 2 Certificate. Our seasoned canoe and kayak instructors will guide you through comprehensive training sessions tailored to boost your confidence and capability on the water.

Kayak Course Overview:

What to Expect: Over the span of two days, immerse yourself in intensive training that blends both technical instruction and practical experience. Whether you’re a novice or seeking to refine your skills, our course provides the perfect environment to enhance your kayaking proficiency.

Preparation for Certification: This course often seamlessly transitions into our Grade Two Certification program. It’s an ideal starting point if you aim to achieve the Coast to Coast Grade 2 Certificate, required for the iconic Coast to Coast race.

Why Kayak With Us?

Expert Guidance: Social Nature Movement has a long-standing history in the kayaking industry. Our instructors have helped countless individuals, including serious athletes and casual paddlers, master their kayaking skills and excel in competitions.

Personalized Coaching: We focus on individualized instruction, ensuring that each participant receives the guidance they need to progress, whether you’re preparing for your first race or aiming to improve your performance.

Versatile Training Locations: Our training sessions are conducted on both flat and moving waters, with locations chosen based on weather conditions and participant preferences. Popular rivers include the Mohaka, Waioeka, Rangitikei, Waikato, Whanganui, and Tongariro.

To see us in action, click here 

Kayak Course Logistics:

Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay at a fully-equipped campground, with options for glamping, where everything is provided for you.

Meals: Self-catered, allowing you to plan your meals according to your dietary preferences.

Difficulty: Moderate. Suitable for both beginners and those with some kayaking experience.

Dates: Check availability and book your spot by pressing the 'Book Now' button or visiting our booking page.

Program Highlights:

Nature-Based Experience: Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of New Zealand’s waterways.

Physical Exercise: Build strength and endurance through practical kayaking sessions.

Community: Connect with fellow kayakers and enjoy the camaraderie of a supportive group.

Excellent Instruction: Learn from some of the best in the industry, with personalized tips and strategies to enhance your kayaking performance.

For Beginners and Seasoned Paddlers Alike:

Beginners: Start with our foundational multisport coaching to build essential kayak skills.

Experienced Paddlers: Join our Moving Water Workshops to refine your technique and gain confidence on river trips.

Advance Your Skills:

For those who have already achieved their Grade 2 Certificate or are looking for more advanced training, our course also serves as a refresher and skill-building platform. Whether you’re gearing up for your next big race or simply seeking more time on the water, we offer coaching and training to meet your needs.

Tandem Kayak Certification Update for 2023:

Starting this year, all competitors in the 2023 race must hold a full Grade 2 Certificate. Exemptions may be considered, but “River Safety Courses” without actual Grade 2 water kayaking will no longer suffice. Our Tandem section offers the opportunity to partner up, ensuring you can complete the race confidently even if you’re not ready to paddle solo.

Improving Your Multisport Kayaking Performance:

Consistent practice and expert coaching are key to mastering multisport kayaking. Our training sessions are designed to help you perfect your technique, maintain optimal posture, and prepare for competitive events. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, our weekend courses provide invaluable experience and preparation.

Book Your Weekend Kayak Training:

Ready to elevate your kayaking skills? Join us for a weekend of training that promises to enhance your abilities and prepare you for the challenges ahead. By the end of this course, you’ll be well-equipped to train independently, take on river tours, and excel in the Coast to Coast race.

Click here to see a list of kayak comparisons available in the industry.

Kayak Refresher Coaching:

If you’ve previously obtained your Grade 2 Certificate but haven’t been on the water recently, our weekend course is perfect for getting back in shape. It will boost your confidence and help you evaluate and improve your current skill level.

For more information and to secure your spot, check our booking tab, click the 'Book Now' button, or fill out an inquiry form.

Duration: overnight / 2 days

Itineraries

Skills

Strokes:
Forward
Sweep
Reverse
Low brace
Draw / sculling

Variables:
Angle
Speed
Edge
Deflection

Abilities:
Ferry Glides,
Wet-exit,
River rescue and water safety:
Self-rescue,
Rapid float swim position,
Rescued by rope and boat,
Swimming,
Throw-bagging.

Knowledge

Interpreting weather reports and river flow data,

Clothing and equipment:
Kayak
Paddle
Spray deck
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Helmet
Dry top
Insulation

River hydrology:
Racing lines
Rapids
Eddys
Wave trains
Holes
Buffer waves
Side currents
Bluffs
Braids
Boils

River rescue and water safety:
Hypothermia,
Hazard identification and management,
Broaching
Strainers
Foot entrapment

C2C compulsory kit

Clothing

• Long sleeve thermal base layer top
• Long sleeved mid layer top (>220gsm)
• Waterproof long sleeve 'paddle specific' jacket (seam-sealed and neoprene or cinchable cuffs and neck)
• Thermal gloves
• Full length thermal base layer pants
• Waterproof pants (seam-sealed)
• Thermal hat
• Thermal socks

Equipment

• Barracuda Kayak: Beachcomber, Enigma, Waimak, Duo
• Two flotation air bags
• Kayak / river specifc helmet
• Paddle
• Spray skirt
• Bouyancy vest (PFD) (type 406 bottom cinch strap webbing)
• Repair / duct tape (>10m)
• Dry-bag (seam-sealed)
• Survival bag not blanket (must be stored in your PFD)
• Whistle (must be connected to you)
• First aid kit (1.5m x 5cm crepe bandage, 2.5m x 2cm strapping tape, 10 Band-Aids, Triangular bandage, Scissors, 4 x pain relief tablets)

SNM required kit

Clothing

• Shorts
• Swimwear
• Long sleeve thermal base layer top - we reguire an extra
• Long sleeved mid layer top (>220gsm) - we require an extra
• Sunhat
• Neck warmer / scarf

Equipment

• Jandals
• Closed-toe footwear / booties
• Sunglasses
• Personal medication
• Water bottle
• Head torch
• Toiletries

Because we are staying overnight, should you choose not to be accommodated and fed by us, here is what you will need:

Sleeping

• Sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Inflatable mattress
• Tent

Cooking

• Cooker
• Fuel / gas
• Lighter / matches
• Pot / frying pan
• Cutlery
• Crockery

All of the above is available to rent / hire or buy