Te Tira Hoe o Waikato 2026

28 – 31 January 2026

Waikato te awa katohia, katohia he wai maau 

Katohia he wai maau, ka eke ki Te Puuaha o Waikato te awa 

He piko he taniwha, he piko he taniwha 

Waikato taniwharau 

Waikato horopounamu e! 

Thank you for joining us on Te Tira Hoe o Waikato 2026. Here is some very important information you must read through carefully to eliminate any paatai you may have.

Medical Certificates – IMPORTANT

Please ensure all medical certificates are emailed to us no later than Friday 9th of January 2026.
This is a compulsory requirement for participation in Te Tira Hoe o Waikato.

Orientation Day

Date: Sunday 25 January 2026
Time: Please arrive at 9:00am for karakia
Location: Waterworld – Te Rapa, Garnett Ave, Te Rapa, Hamilton
Cost: FREE – all costs are covered by Waikato-Tainui
Kai: All food and drinks are catered for during the day

What to wear: Please check what you can and cannot wear in the pools:
https://www.hamiltonpools.co.nz/terms-and-conditions/

Where to go: On arrival at Waterworld, you will be met at the main entrance by Waikato-Tainui kaimahi (wearing hi-viz). Your name will be marked off and you will be directed where to go.

After the Pools

We will travel from Waterworld to Tuurangawaewae Marae for a practice hoe on the river. Please ensure you have transport to and from Tuurangawaewae. Let us know early if you require transport support.

Important Notes

  • It is not recommended that you bring whaanau members, as they may distract you. This is a Waikato-Tainui Health & Safety requirement, and you will need to be fully focused during all water safety sessions.

  • Attendance is COMPULSORY as part of our Health & Safety procedures. If you are unable to attend for any reason, please reply to this email ASAP, or contact:

    • Hinga Whiu – 021 181 1009

    • Lloyd Whiu – 021 050 4606

Noo reira raa e taatou maa – ki te hoe!