The Kiwi Association of Sea kayakers (KASK) is set to host a paddle craft safety workshop at the Bucklands Beach Yacht Club next week.
The workshop, to be held on November 30, is part of KASK’s KayakSafe NZ initiative, funded in part by Safer Boating New Zealand, now in its sixth year.
It is provided to participants free of charge and is open to all types of kayakers, but aimed at those new to the sport or considering taking it up.
Steve Cooper, president of KASK says he hopes the workshops will be a fun way for people to understand the basics to start enjoying a day on the water safely.
“We want to see people get out on the water, have fun and, most importantly, get home safely afterwards,” he says.
The workshop will consist of a presentation covering essential safety equipment, getting your kayak ready to paddle, communication devices, interpreting marine forecasts, suitable clothing, hazards, trip planning, and emergencies.
There will also be a practical session which puts this knowledge into practice on the water under the watchful eyes of experienced local kayakers.
Head of the KayakSafe programme, Dallas Veitch, says some participants have commented that the workshop has been life-changing for them.
“It allows them the freedom to get out on the water and feel secure in what they’re doing,” he says.
Participants are required to bring their own kayaks.
To find more information on the workshop and register for November 30, visit https://kask.co.nz/kayaksafe-nz/
