Kiwi Waka Ama Club
Following a successful 2018, the NZ Chamber provided sponsorship funds to the Kiwi Waka Ama club to help with the purchase of two new outrigger canoes.
Following a successful 2018, the NZ Chamber provided sponsorship funds to the Kiwi Waka Ama club to help with the purchase of two new outrigger canoes.
The club recently played host for the annual Country of Origin outrigger competition – the most anticipated ocean paddling event in Singapore. More than 220 competitors from 14 countries competed for bragging rights within the Outrigger community. With our new home at Aloha Sea Sports Centre on the East Coast, and taking delivery of 2 brand new Waka, we were keen to put on a good show – both on and off the water. The Kiwis have consistently done well over the years, but this year's performance on the water set a new benchmark. The Kiwis were clear winners in both the Open Women and Open Men categories with the benefit of having several crew members who represented Singapore at the recent World Championships in Australia. To top off the big wins in the men’s and women’s categories, the Kiwi’s went on to place 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the Mixed Open race. A highlight was the 3rd place in the mixed event – the team was made up of several of our new members who have only recently started paddling. Following the racing, New Zealand performed Waiata, and a Haka then followed up with Kai and drink.
About the Kiwi Waka Ama Club.
Our club is not just about competing and doing well. First and foremost, our Kiwi kaupapa (principle) is to strengthen our connection to the Moana (sea) through the Waka and Kapa Haka (Maori dance), celebrating our countries history and creating a sense of belonging and desire to become more connected with our cultural heritage. We learn and share the waiata (songs) and stories of our ancestors, so the wisdom and values of our culture continue to foster and shared with people of all nations living in Singapore.
The Kiwi Waka Ama club is open to anyone keen to learn Waka and Kapa Haka. For membership enquiries, please visit our Facebook page or contact Club President, Mike Matthews on 98188835, Mary Ruwhiu 8672 9921 or Tony Keepa 9370 1264.
