No matter how many times I head overseas on a boating trip, I am always super stoked to come home and brace myself for what I know will be a huge NZL Spring and Summer!
This season has been no different from those of the past, and now that I’m finally ready to say my season here is coming to an end, I can take the time to post about it.
Come November every year, I say farewell to my fellow colleagues in the architectural office and head South.
Despite what you may have heard of the New Zealand season, it starts in the South.
The Waikaia River is potentially my favourite river in the world. The East Branch of the Waikaia is in my eyes the hardest multi day run in the country. Having been a part of the first descent team in Spring of 2009, I have been back every season since and caught the short window of eye opening, edge of seat excitement. Starting with a heli trip to 1100m altitude, you gradually descend to 300m over 13km’s and two days. Two days of non-stop horizon lines and long, technical rapids in a stunning high country tussock and beach forest setting.
Snow on the approach to the Waikaia Valley
I enjoy a quiet moment with Shannon Mast during our first descent of the Upper West Branch of the Waikaia.
About to drop back in to the East Branch of the Waikaia after a long sustained class V+ section early on day 1. With the numbers for safety, this bad boy will go.
Enjoying a waterfall in day two of the East Branch.
Willz Martin launches on one of the last rapids of day 1 in the East Branch.
A week in the Waikaia’s generally has the body aching for a rest, and from here, I head back home to Central Otago. The gems of Central are what make me most proud to be a Kiwi. Every year, you are guaranteed good flows on the Nevis River from September through to Xmas while the snow is melting. When your bored of the Nevis (or just needing a rest) head to the Blue River, Routeburn River, Manuherikia River, or how about the Kawarau for some laps on Nevis Bluff, Citroen and Retrospect rapids!
The Nevis is my backyard bread and butter, and I was stoked this year to fit 14 laps in. Two solo, and three sub two hours, smashing the previous record of 2hr54min set in 2011 by myself, Barny Young and Jordy Searle.
Anyway, too much writing. Check out the “Central Spring” episode of “Worthless” for somewhat of a summary.
NZ Worthless- Central Springtime
And.. keep an eye open for the full edit of “Worthlesser – Weekend Worriers” dropping soon.
Worthlesser – Weekend Worriers
When Spring finally rolls to a stop, then I head to the “Best Coast” for some alpine heli runs and walk ins. The options are endless, and I can’t quite portray my affection for the New Zealand kayak season enough.
Laying back for a moment out of the boat in the Arahura River
Dropping into the intimidating Morgan’s Gorge on the Waitaha River
Dropping in to “Trent’s Trench” during the first descent of the Upper Whataroa River
To top off my 12/13 season, how about a brand new artificial wave in my backyard to jam on before work. Or after. Or even on my lunch hour. It’s literally 5 mins from my office and flows virtually every day! Not a bad way to wind down a season of steeps.
Learning to paddle a freestyle boat again is a pretty easy undertaking when this wave is only 1 of 2 new features minutes upstream from my caravan!
I’m on a plane in less than two weeks back to the USA aiming for my first big hit at some Cali love. Stay tuned.