Each summer, the dragon boat community descends on the stunning Kai Iwi Lakes for a weekend of paddling, learning, and lakeside camping. Now in its 17th year, this training camp brings together paddlers, steerers, and coaches from across the region for a weekend of skill-building, connection, and fresh-air fun.

🛶 What it’s all about

The camp is designed to give everyone time on the water, time to learn, and time to connect with others in the paddling community. Expect a mix of structured sessions and chilled lake vibes - perfect for fine-tuning technique, trying something new, and getting inspired.

• Take part in practical, on-water workshops with experienced coaches

• Meet paddlers from other clubs and train alongside them

• Take a boat out for a sunrise paddle or cruise at sunset

• Learn from off-water chats, including specialist sessions for sweeps

• Enjoy a relaxed, communal camping experience with good food and even better company

📍 Location: Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland

Just under three hours from Auckland, these freshwater lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. It’s an unforgettable place to paddle - and camp.

We stay at the Prominade Point campground.

🏕️ The camping setup

• We’re staying at a non-powered site, so bring torches, fully charged devices, and anything else you need to go off-grid

• Toilets are available onsite (no long drops!), and showers can be found a few minutes’ drive away

• The lake is perfect for swimming and washing off after training

🛍️ Before you arrive

• The last supermarket is in Dargaville, about 30 minutes from the campsite

• Talk with your teammates about shared meals and who’s bringing what

• Carpooling is encouraged—great for saving on fuel and easing campsite parking

• If you’re driving, remember to enter your number plate in your registration

🗓 Weekend schedule snapshot

Friday 13 February

• Arrive from 12:00pm

• Set up camp and settle in

• 5:30pm: Sunset Paddle 🌅

• BBQ dinner and stargazing vibes

Saturday 14 February

• 7:00am: Sunrise Paddle

• 9:30am – 11:00am: Training Session 1

• 12:00pm: Lunch & Learn (off-water sweeps session)

• 1:00pm – 2:30pm: Training Session 2

• 3:00pm: Fun Races

• 4:00pm: Boat pack down

• Mix, mingle and party with all members

 

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This camp is all about good paddling, great people, and the kind of memories that stick around long after the tents come down.

Spaces fill fast. Be ready for a weekend that feels like summer should.