THE SEA CANOEIST NEWSLETTER ISSN 1177-4177

The Journal of the Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers (NZ) Inc - KASK

No. 137 October - November 2008

The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

INDEX EDITORIAL Because KASK is a non-profi t or- KASK Logo Trademarked ganisation that relies on membership EDITORIAL p. 3 Committee member Beverley Burnett subscriptions, the KASK Membership arranged for trade mark registration of the Signup and membership benefi ts have LETTER TO THE EDITOR KASK logo. Total cost included $45 for a been more prominently displayed on Cambridge-Hamilton race search and preliminary advice, then $225 the website. Leon says, “I hope that from Su Sommerhalder p. 4 for fi ling under classes 16 and 41. KASK is seeing a higher number of membership signups as a result of the POINT OF VIEW KASK Logo Stickers new site. If they are, I can tick that one Houston - We Have a Problem The KASK logo stickers are back in off the list”. He is also working on the by Kevin Dunsford p. 5 print. If you did not receive a sticker search engine rankings to increase the in your new membership care package, amount of traffi c the site receives. SAFETY and are desperate for one, please email How the new (ARC) bylaw affects Linda at [email protected] The site is tracked using Google Ana- safety for kayakers lytics which provides very compre- from Colin Quilter p. 6 Letter to the Editor hensive statistics on website visitors. Wellington Mini-Forum Visits I received a four page letter from For the month ending 23 November, to RCCNZ and MOC Auckland paddler Ian Calhaem, relat- the site had 1,184 visits from mainly by Sandy Winterton p. 8 ing to safety issues and the ARC Sec- New Zealand traffi c, but also from What Makes a Good Trip Leader tion 2.17. As it is unclear if the letter Australia, USA, UK, Germany and by Iona Bailey p. 17 is from Ian as an individual or from Singapore, with one visit from land- the president of the Auckland Canoe locked Slovakia. FORUMS Club and representing the views of Wellington Mini-Forum that club, I have decided to hold the Leon says he chose the system because 1 - 2 November 2008 letter over until written clarifi cation if its fl exibility. The homepage uses by Beverley Burnett p.10 is received from Ian. blogging functionality to manage the ‘KASK News’, and the Discussion NEW ZEALAND TRIP REPORT KASK WEBSITE UPGRADE Forum is also a plug-in to the system, A Coromandel Journey Leon Dalziel from baby-e, a web rather than hacking together different by Robbie Banks p.13 design fi rm based between Nelson bits that may not necessarily work well and the West Coast, designed the together. The Photo Gallery uses an OVERSEAS TRIP REPORT new KASK website. It was created elegant effect to show the enlarged Solomons Sojourn using a Content Management System version of the photo rather than the by David Fisher p.18 (CMS) that allows the website to be usual ‘popup’ windows, however edited and changed by KASK, rather with regards to Paul Caffyn’s hair dye CALENDAR p.20 than having to rely on a webmaster to mishap, it shows much more detail make changes to the site. Pages and than intended. HUMOUR p.21 pictures can be created and edited, and the discussion forum moderated KASK has also had a cheaper ‘non- THANKS by key KASK members. profi t’ monthly fee negotiated with the hosting company, Digital Promotions. For photos, articles, and proof read- The brief to Leon was that the graphic baby-e and Digital Promotions work ing, big mobs of thanks to: design of the site should be attractive closely together on many projects, Iona Bailey to website visitors, and that the site and Leon is able to pull a few strings Robbie Banks in general should refl ect an informa- when required. Beverley Burnett tional resource for sea kayakers. Jamie Corkhill LAST NEWSLETTER REMINDER FOR PADDLERS Kevin Dunsford If you have failed to cough up the $35 KASK subscription for the 2008 - 2009 year, you are David Fisher exceedingly fortunate to be receiving one last newsletter. I forgot to include a reminder in the John Kirk-Anderson last newsletter. Not so this time. Colin Quilter THIS IS YOUR LAST, FINAL AND THERE WILL BE NO MORE NEWSLETTERS UNLESS YOU HAVE PAID YOUR 08/09 SUB. ALL KASK MEMBERS RECEIVED AN John Seward INVOICE. IF YOU HAVE OLD TIMER’S DISEASE (LIKE ME) WRITE A SWEET EMAIL Alan Singleton TO LINDA INGRAM (our effi cient administrator) TO CHECK IF YOU HAVE PAID. Su Sommerhalder Sandy Winteron PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS Cover: Richard Lineham, Wellington Sea Kayak Forum. Wet as a shag in a gale force nor-wester, but is Richard happy or what? DEADLINE FOR NEXT Photograph: John Kirk-Anderson NEWSLETTER 16 Page 2: Top - Andy Blake carving a good ride at the Lyall Bay surf session. JANUARY 2009 Bottom: Bruce Christenson lining a ride up in the soup at Lyall Bay. Both photos: Sandy Winterton

3 No. 137 October - November 2008

competed themselves and were white normal river fl ow was a challenge for LETTER TO THE water kayaking instructors. The third competitors and organisers. crew was supplied by a multisport and EDITOR kayak racing club. They all had a good I welcome feedback if it assists in mak- working knowledge of this stretch ing next year’s Cambridge-Hamilton Comments re Observations on of river. The Environment Waikato Race and Cruise a better event. Cambridge-Hamilton Race boat was also on rescue duty. All four rescue boats were at the race start in Su Sommerhalder from Su Sommerhalder Cambridge. The Hamilton Harbour Race Director Master himself paddled the section Cambridge-Hamilton Kayak Race Firstly I appreciated reading com- from the Narrows to Hamilton in an P.O. Box 56-403 Dominion Rd ments from someone who paddled open canoe. Most paddlers would not Mt Eden, Auckland 1446 the Race and Cruise from Cambridge have seen any rescue boats for periods Phone/fax: (09) 631-5344 to Hamilton. This annual event is of time, as those boats were moving Mobile: 027-552-9251 attracting more entries each year. It along with, or in between, pods of Em: [email protected] is ‘do-able’ by paddlers with various kayakers. This year’s higher than www.KayakRace.co.nz skill levels, and rewards participants with changing scenery, a sense of achievement and a chance to take Julie Reynolds towing the capsized paddler to home a prize, regardless of placing in shore. Photo: Alan Singleton the competition. At the same time, this Su’s letter addresses race is a fair challenge for competitive concerns about race paddlers in the various divisions. safety that were raised by Julie Reynolds in As in most kayak and multisport com- her KASK President’s petitions, you will fi nd some paddlers report in newsletter are not prepared for the conditions. No. 136. They set out to have ‘fun’ without considering whether their skills match The two photos, sup- the task. However, to practice skills plied by Alan Sin- and become a better paddler, you have gleton show Julie to start somewhere. The Cambridge- bringing the capsized Hamilton event is an opportunity paddler to shore and to improve paddling skills. You are the safety boat that amongst experienced competitors ignored her calls for and rescue craft are on duty. Mishaps help with the capsized can occur, whether you are an expe- paddler. rienced racing paddler or a beginner participating in a river competition. All entrants are expected to look out The safety boat, with TV cameraman, retrieving the empty kayak. for fellow paddlers in diffi culties and Photo: Alan Singleton render assistance, regardless of their own placing in the race. Organisers compensate competitors involved in rescues for lost time. With over 300 craft on the river, it goes without saying that rescue boats are a necessity.

It was previously arranged, that the safety angle at this year’s race briefi ng would be handed over to Kim from Environment Waikato. He had just fi n- ished his trip upstream from Hamilton and could give information and advice on the fast fl owing Waikato River. We commissioned three rescue craft, with a minimum of two crew in each and briefed them on their duties.

Two of these crews have assisted us in this race in previous years, have

4 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

I think we do care. In fact we care so Plastic sit upon kayaks are relatively POINT OF VIEW much that this issue is the only issue cheap, almost indestructible and the in the last 20 or so years that is mak- perception is you don’t need the same ing us Auckland sea kayakers look at degree of skill to use them. Everyone Houston – We have a ourselves, our organisations and just who buys a kayak and uses it in the sea problem! how this whole mess came about. And including fi shing yaks, diving yaks, by Kevin Dunsford looking at it from afar it seems to me surf yaks and the rest is now a ‘Sea that it can be summarised in one word Kayaker’, and we need to be saved. I was browsing the internet looking for - Apathy! a cheap sit-upon to use as a tender for The Auckland Regional Council my yacht when I came across this mes- I’m apathetic. I leave whoever wants (ARC) and Environment Waikato sage in the safety topic of the Yak Yak to run kayak clubs to get on with the (EW) are responding to what they Yak fi shing forum http://www.fi sh- job and leave me more time to get out perceive as a growing problem. ing.net.nz/asp_forums/forum_posts. kayaking. It is not until someone like Boaties are scared of running down asp?TID=15847: the ARC tries to tell me how to kayak kayakers and getting blood on their safely, that I throw my hands up in boat and their hands. The ARC have Posted: 31 Aug 2006 at 9:25am horror and ask how it all came to this. us on their rule books as the category Put a light on. Apathy is the New Zealand condition. ‘paddle craft’ and feel that they have I have barely seen several yaks And where one regional body goes, to prescribe to us how to be safe. You on my way home into Weiti river the others will follow. can be sure that in fi ve years time, - any spray on the window and fading light and choppy water = when the rule is reviewed, they will can’t see any yaks. But Houston, apathy is not the whole expand their prescription – unless we It’d be a shame to have a messy problem. Neither is rule 2.17, it is just nip this over zealousness in the bud paint streak and blood along the a symptom. The real problem is that – right now. side of my boat when running we ‘traditional sea kayakers’, or most over a yak. of us, have been blinkered to what is Houston, this may be bad - but we Put a light on. happening out there. have an even bigger problem. We Cheers ‘traditional sea kayakers’ are now a Espresso Here we are getting our trip leader lost minority in the kayak scene. We training, attending Coastbusters and may have skills, we may have experi- Is it any wonder that regional au- KASK forums, learning to roll in 30 ence, but we don’t have organisation. thorities like the ARC and Environ- different ways on both sides and gen- We don’t have a voice! ment Waikato, seeing posts like this, erally upskilling - while all the time perceive a maritime safety problem there has been a kayaking revolution Traditional canoe club membership that needs to be addressed? Regional going on. has dropped drastically in the last authorities are powerless except to few years. Auckland Canoe Club is make bylaws, and that’s just what Recently a kayak reseller estimated down from about 500 to just a few the ARC did. Navigation Safety Rule that there are about 100,000 kayaks hundred. KASK is down to about 2.17 covering paddle craft in all their out there. Yes, it is N.Z. we are talk- the same. On the other hand Canoe kingdom: ing about. That’s equivalent to 2.5% and Kayak’s Yakity Yak ‘club’ is of New Zealanders owning a kayak. estimated by Pete Townend to have • Thou shalt ensure you are omni- But on Trademe, only one in 20 kayaks about 2,000 members. And Johnson visible for sale is a ‘traditional sea kayak’. Outdoor Canoes runs a club for kayak • Thou shalt wear bright robes Overwhelmingly most kayaks for fi shermen. There’s an obvious trend to • Thou shalt refl ect the power and sale are plastic sit-upons. The fi shing commercial ‘clubs’ or organisations. the glory of the ARC in thou pad- and diving fraternity are buying them Commercial resellers have funding to dle blade like there’s no tomorrow. Kayaking is attract new members, provide discount • Thou shalt don a 2 mile halo at now the fastest growing water sport on sales, run kayak trips and training - night and has been for some time. individuals don’t need to participate in club overheads, paying for clubrooms Or words to this effect. What McDonald’s did to fi ne dining, and time in committees. cheap plastic sit-upons have done to Do we care that the ARC is selecting sea kayaking. Ask anyone on the street But only a small percentage of New the colours for our kayaking gear? Do what a kayak is and their fi rst vision Zealand kayakers are in clubs, com- we care that they are prescribing how is probably a plastic sit-upon, maybe mercial or otherwise. If we estimate we should prevent ourselves getting four fi shing rod holders and a fi sh there are 5,000 sea kayakers in clubs run over? Do we care that their pre- fi nder that costs more than a second of any sort and over 100,000 kayaks scription covers Eskimo-like kayaks, hand car. We have lost the battle for out there – that’s only 5% of kayakers sit-apons, fi shing yaks, diving yaks, the brand – ‘Sea Kayak’. represented by clubs. racing K1’s, surf kayaks, dragon boats and Maori war canoes?

5 No. 137 October - November 2008

So where are all the new ‘sea kayak- back of our kayaks, until the stupidity ers’, ahem ‘paddle craft’, getting their of the rule was pointed out to them. information and knowledge from? Now we have to put our identifi cation SAFETY Go to the New Zealand fi shing web details ‘somewhere on the kayak’. site and check out the Yak Yak Yak Why? So they know who is fl agrantly From: Colin Quilter forum sponsored by Johnson Out- not compiling with rule 2.17. Sent: 23 October 2008 door Canoes. Check the number of (fi rst printed in the Auckland views 33,918 for this one topic, it’s Currently all jet skis in Auckland and Canoe Club newsletter) astounding: the North have to be registered. Every yacht that races is registered and all Subject: How the new bylaw Rigged Kayak photo’s other vessels now have to have their affects safety for kayakers by Boulder, 30 Aug 2006 at 10.06pm names on both sides. 369 33918 To: John Lee-Richards Harbourmaster The Coastguard also want all vessels Dear Harbourmaster New sea kayakers are getting their registered, as 60% of boaties helped, knowledge online. Because many of give false names, which makes it hard The ARC Navigation Safety Bylaw them are interested in fi shing, they go to recover costs. There is a creeping 2008 came into force in July. Section to the fi shing web sites. In the safety authoritarian disease spreading and 2.17 prescribes three actions that section of the same site there are 3,000 we don’t have a representative voice kayakers must take to ensure they are views over 56 safety discussion points. to oppose it. visible to other craft. I believe that Kayaking has become a means to an two of those actions actually decrease end, not the end itself. We can’t leave this voice to commer- safety for kayakers. Since I know that cial concerns. Kayak resellers have you have a genuine interest in safety Fishing and diving kayakers are or- other objectives, such as making a on the water, I am writing to explain ganised. Through online forums they profi t from us. The more gear we have what, in my view, is wrong with the discuss issues and may motivate one to buy and put on a kayak the better for new bylaw. This will take some time; another on issues they feel strongly them. Kayak resellers and operators I hope you will bear with me. about – they have a voice. But where rely on good relations with bodies like is ours? Where are the forums for us the ARC for their very survival. We I have been sea kayaking for 22 years. traditional sea kayakers in NZ? If we can’t expect them to voice our interests Weekend trips have been on the har- disagree strongly about an issue such and protests to regional authorities; we bour and inner gulf, (including about as the one at the moment with ARC, have to do it ourselves. 500 crossings from Tamaki Drive to how do we go about informing other Rangitoto). On longer trips I have kayakers? KASK currently is the only voice paddled all of the North Island’s east for ‘traditional sea kayakers’. But its coast from North Cape to Wellington, At a meeting a couple of weeks ago in membership pales into insignifi cance and the South Island coast from Cape Auckland nine kayaking organisations compared with the online fi shing Farewell to Kaikoura. came together to discuss the ARC’s kayak voice. new rule 2.17. All nine organisations During those 22 years I have had two represented were 100% opposed to the Should we join the kayak fi shing near-collisions on Auckland Harbour. new rule and want to have it overturned lobby? Both involved high-speed motorboats, - revoked. So the discussion turned (one a fast ferry). On both occasions to how to do this. We soon realised Should KASK get funding and step sunstrike was undoubtedly the cause. that apart from KASK we have no up to represent us all? The motor vessel was travelling into other common forum to represent the sun, and I was lost among the our views. Or should we just leave it to the com- dazzling refl ections. Both occasions mercial kayak businesses and continue were terrifying. I was deeply shaken Over the next few years there are with our comfortable apathy? by the experience, and gave a lot of some very important issues that will thought to how I could make myself affect us sea kayakers. For example One thing is sure. If we don’t speak more visible. Since in that situation I the ARC, and no doubt other regional with one voice, sea kayakers will was seen only in silhouette, I decided authorities, is currently forming have to accept whatever rules and that wearing black clothing was the guidelines for accepting Aquaculture regulations authorities decide to infl ict best way of enlarging my silhouette. applications. They are pleading for on them. However black is not a good colour at representation from kayakers and say other times, for example in dim light it may signifi cantly affect us. Houston - Are you listening? We have when bright clothing is an advantage. I a problem. looked for a compromise, and decided The ARC would also dearly love to on a blood-red colour which is dark have us all registered. As a fi rst step Kevin Dunsford enough to make a good silhouette but they tried having us put names on the bright enough to be visible at dusk

6 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter or dawn. Fortunately, this is a colour paddling and aimed the torch straight inner harbour is an excellent initia- which is common in buoyancy aids at the vessel. Usually within a very tive which I hope you will have the and paddle jackets. My present PFD is short time the powerboat would alter resources to enforce. that colour, and when the cloth faded course, indicating that it had seen us. I re-covered it with new material of We then resumed paddling, confi dent If there is a chance to review the the same colour. that our fi xed all-round lights, though bylaw in future, can I suggest that relatively weak, would continue to “recommended guidelines” would be The new bylaw specifi es a high-vis- show our position. better than bylaws? Such guidelines ibility vest or PFD (I presume bright would establish a standard of good yellow, orange or pink). This will This is an excellent system. The torch practice for kayakers, but would allow be excellent in dim light but deadly allows a kayaker to be seen at a far old fellows like me to continue with in sunstrike. Based on my personal greater distance at night than by day, slightly different methods which we experience, and my fear of collision, and I often felt that it was safer cross- have found, through long experience, I will not comply with the bylaw. ing to Rangitoto at night than making to be equally effective. the same trip in daylight. You might be sympathetic to this argu- I hope you won’t mind if I copy this ment because in the November 2006 On the principle that if a little is good, letter to other interested parties. The issue of the Harbourmaster’s News more will be better, we tried fi tting bylaw has prompted a lot of discus- you described the running-down of much brighter all-round white lights, sion among paddlers, and it may be a kayaker between North Head and of the type now specifi ed in the by- that others will wish to give you their Okahu Bay by a launch steaming law (range at least 2 nautical miles). opinion. straight into the setting sun. You iden- However we abandoned them, for Best wishes, Colin Quilter tifi ed sunstrike as the cause. I guess three reasons: you would also agree that Auckland Follow up email from Colin Harbour with its east-west orientation 1) A paddler showing a bright all- Hi Paul is almost uniquely bad for sunstrike. In round light destroys the night vision I got together with many of the long- the morning a procession of boats head of his companions who are paddling term Auckland Canoe Club members eastwards from Westhaven straight alongside. yesterday when we escorted swimmers into the morning sun. In the afternoon, on the harbour. All of the folk I spoke after a day of fi shing and drinking 2) The extra current drain required to expressed reservations about the beer they all return straight into the a lead-acid battery which was heavy sub-bylaw dealing with visibility of afternoon sun. The combination of and expensive. kayakers. Some who were involved sunstrike, speed, a salt-encrusted in the ‘trials’ organised by Ian and windscreen and a high blood-alcohol 3) The brighter light achieved no the Harbourmaster told me that, from level is potentially lethal for kayakers. useful purpose because a torch was their understanding, both Ian and High-visibility clothing will make this the method of choice for warning the Harbourmaster intended that the problem worse, not better. an oncoming vessel at a range much process would generate ‘recommen- greater than any all-round light could dations’ or ‘guidelines’ for kayakers; The second issue concerns lights for achieve. not a bylaw. Somehow, much later, kayaks at night. Again, I need to ex- the recommendation was converted plain some personal history. About 20 For these reasons, based on my own into a bylaw. years ago I joined a group who paddled experience, I will continue to use a regularly on the harbour at night. We torch and my 20 year-old all-round My partner Ailsa Duffy has also experimented with various forms of white light even though the latter is written to the Harbourmaster seeking lighting: torches, fi xed or fl ashing all- not bright enough to comply with the details of the consultation process round lights, strobe lights, etc. Many, bylaw. For the same reason I will be which was followed before making especially the all-round lights, were unwilling to paddle alongside anybody the bylaw. The draft version of the home-built. After numerous trials most who does have a compliant light, in bylaw made available to the public of us settled on the same solution, which order to preserve my night vision. did NOT contain the present section was for each kayak to carry two lights. Fortunately none of my friends own dealing with visibility of kayakers. One a reasonably powerful torch (eg. a compliant light; as we discovered 20 If the proper consultation process Eveready Dolphin), and the second an years ago the necessary battery capac- was not followed the bylaw cannot all-round white light (torch bulb pow- ity makes these so expensive that few be enforced. ered by alkaline batteries) mounted on kayakers will purchase them. a 1-metre mast behind the cockpit. I sent a copy of her letter to a few others Thank you for having the patience to in the campaign; that is copied below We used the lights in the follow- read this far. Despite my negative feel- for your interest. We will have to wait ing way. Oncoming powerboats of ings about the new bylaw, I appreciate for the Harbourmaster’s explanation to concern were recognised by their the genuine efforts you are making see whether this will be a possible line red and green sidelights. When they to improve safety on the harbour. In of attack. I’ll keep you posted. were a mile or two away we stopped particular, the speed restriction on the

7 No. 137 October - November 2008

– a system where vessels that carry a of EPIRBs. Advice from the RCCNZ SAFETY tracking device can be monitored by team is to always carry one when RCCNZ. Four large wall monitors paddling, tramping etc., preferably WELLINGTON FORUM can be confi gured to display vari- with an inbuilt GPS. If buying one, ous data including activated distress only consider 406 MegaHerz (MHz) VISITS to RCCNZ and beacons such as EPIRBs, on any of models as those using 121.5/243 MHz MOC three different frequencies. Distress will not be reported by the satellites by Sandy Winterton beacon signals are picked up by either from 1 February 2009. They pointed satellites (RCCNZ knows their pass out that while $700 or so may seem One of the sessions offered at the re- times and can display their paths on a lot when considering a purchase, cent November Wellington mini forum screen) or by aircraft. During our visit, it seems a bargain if you’re bobbing was a visit to the Rescue Coordination one Canadian registered beacon was up and down in the briny or injured Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) and active in the Pacifi c and there were while tramping with nobody for miles. Maritime Operations Centre (MOC). two others that had apparently been Other tips are to set off the beacon Both come under Maritime New Zea- set off by accident in aircraft. where you have a clear view of the land and share one fl oor of a building sky, and be aware that one of the main about half an hour’s drive from the Automatic Identification System satellites is north-east of NZ over the forum venue. (AIS) is another tool that RCCNZ equator and so it can’t ‘see’ beacons uses to track and provide details on on the western side of steep terrain A party of committee members rec- commercial vessels. We saw one of such as cliffs or mountains. Point the onnoitred the venue on Friday, and a the inter-island ferries, and could tell aerial upwards (important if you are convoy of forum-ite cars headed into at a glance its name, destination, and in the water) and leave your EPIRB the heart of the Hutt Valley on a seri- number of passengers on board. AIS turned on. It is a mistake to try and ously windy Saturday afternoon. To is very accurate, as we saw when John preserve battery life by turning it off, keep the group size manageable, we zoomed in on the Kaitaki inter-island as searchers keep losing the signal. divided in two, one half to each opera- ferry. We could see it was at its berth If an EPIRB is set off inadvertently, tions centre before changing ends at in Wellington and even which end the owner should call the police or half time. The two organisations we was the bow. RCCNZ as soon as you can and advise visited are separate entities but work them of the mistake. closely together. A new search planning tool is under trial and we were given an impressive Activated beacons are detected by The classifi cation system for incidents demonstration of its ability to predict satellite or by aircraft. 406 MHz changed at mid year. RCCNZ is now the most fruitful areas of sea in which beacons send a signal that identifi es resonsible for Category II incidents to search for a vessel or person. A the owner, and GPS enabled models covering covering land, air and marine scenario was run to look for a kayaker give an accurate location too, as long rescues and typically deal with about last seen at 3.00 pm off Wellington as they can see a satellite. The position 1200 incidents per year on their own heads, two days previously. Software of a beacon without a GPS function or in conjunction with the Police. gathers real time wind, tide and cur- is resolved after more than one satel- rent information over the period and lite pass or by aircraft using direction John Ashby was our Search and Res- simulates the possible paths that the fi nding euipment. cue Offi cer guide on Friday, and the kayaker could have taken by track- Saturday visit was hosted by Mike ing possible routes on screen. At the Within moments of a signal being Roberts and Conrad Reynecke. end of the simulation, the highest received, the RCCNZ has information chances of locating the lost person to hand about the owner. This data RCCNZ is responsible for an area were highlighted on the shores of the comes from the registration details of about 6% of the earth’s surface, south coast round to Lake Ferry, but that owners submit when purchas- from the South Pole well up into the possible paths could have taken them ing, so if EPIRBs change hands, or if tropics – an area of about 30 million round Cape Palliser and up towards the owner’s contact person or other square kilometres, very little of which Honeycomb Rock. There were many important data alters, updated details comprises terra fi rma. With just two parameters that could be applied to must be lodged. or three offi cers present, the area is refi ne the search, such as kayaker in one of the the most thinly resourced boat, in water wearing a PFD, adrift An example was given of how a hunter Search and Rescue Regions (SRRs) and unprotected etc. near Te Anau was rescued at dusk in the world. within a couple of hours of receiving The RCCNZ has other databases, tools injuries that would probably have Although the RCCNZ offi cers can do and aids to assist in searching and resulted in his death if he’d stayed things the old way with charts, maps retrieving people lost, hurt or in other out overnight. Another story told of and navigational instruments, they serious situations such as a medical an expensive search that eventually have a number of impressive hi-tech emergency. Locating the person is found a 20 year old locator beacon aids to provide more information and the fi rst challenge. This has become that someone had thrown out thinking to speed things up,including TracPlus easier in recent years with the advent it was inoperative.

8 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

With heads full of three letter acronyms and the electronic wizardry available to the RCCNZ we progressed to the Maritime Operations Centre where our guide for both visits was Daniel Nicholson. The centre is run and the staff employed by Kordia (previously Broadcast Communications Ltd.)

A room with fi ve staff at different stations, big screens, high tech broad- cast gear, and a billion buttons, dials and gizmos greeted us. The MOC serves an even bigger area than their neighbours - the 50 million square kilometres of Navigation Area 14 (NAVAREA XIV).

The centre answers all distress calls within their huge patch and is also ‘Taupo Maritime Radio’ – this is due to Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand - Search and Rescue Offi cer Christine the requirement to give the station the Wilson coordinates the response to an incident. Photo: John Kirk-Anderson same name as the place the transmit- certainly no feeling that additional on assigned channels. These are regu- ters are located, but which sometimes TRs would be unwelcome. larly updated and play an important results in people headed to the central preventative role in keeping vessels plateau calling to ask what the weather A VHF radio can be a life saver and safe. is like outside. can also make your trips more interest- ing and informed as you can listen in We looked at some stats from 2006 The team monitors six high frequency to radio traffi c ranging from TRs to which included 103 distress calls, 890 channels mainly used by offshore ves- full-on emergency situations. Anyone signifi cant incidents, 133 hoaxes and sels and 28 VHF channels including who has a VHF is well advised to 43 medical emergencies. There were emergency channel 16 for coastal register for a radio call sign and to do 270 navigational warnings (logs, waters, and all call on this channel a course to obtain a marine VHF radio containers, ice bergs) from coastal made anywhere in NZ waters are operator’s qualifi cation. The course and deep water vessels. dealt with from the Hutt Valley. The covers correct procedure and will give centre also receives information from operators the knowledge necessary to When a vessel uses a radio call sign, RCCNZ about EPIRB activations, use their radio with confi dence and to the MOC staff can immediately call which is viewed using one of the same best effect. Details are available from up details of the vessel and the owner data display systems as we had seen Coastguard Boating Education. including emergency contacts. This previously. information must be kept up to date The team handles about 1000-1200 when the owner’s details change if the One of the functions of the MOC is to incidents per year including distress MOC is to handle distress calls in the record trip reports (TRs). On getting calls, missing vessels, fl are sightings most effi cient manner. underway vessels should lodge a de- and incursions into the Poor Knights parture TR to identify their vessel, their marine reserve exclusion zone. All in all it was a great insight into departure point, where they’re headed two services that provide people with and advise the number of people on Distress calls increase signifi cantly in information to keep themselves safe, board (POB). On reaching their desti- summer as more people venture out, to track their movements, and the nation they should lodge an arrival TR, and while there are sadly a signifi cant stunning technology that allows those at which time the report is closed by number of hoaxes, every call is treated that have come to grief to be located the MOC team. They handle 100-250 the same. Other problems dealt with and rescued. TRs daily, and a small percentage are include ‘open mikes’ when a micro- never closed. Sea kayakers should be phone has somehow become jammed Our huge thanks to both teams for aware that no action is taken by the in transmit mode, which can block the time they spent with us and the MOC just because an arrival TR has others from using the channel. services they offer to all those who not been reported. The TR system step outside the front door. may seem to be designed for larger Another service provided is regular vessels, but it was interesting to hear weather reports for the vast region Sandy Winterton - 9 November 2008 that the MOC team recommends that covered. Trained team members kayakers lodge TRs even when the record forecasts for different areas (Thanks to John Seward, Operations Manager for RCCNZ, for proof reading trip may be fairly minor. There was which are broadcast at specifi ed times Sandy’s excellent report)

9 No. 137 October - November 2008

doesn’t build character, it reveals it, Wellington is the national centre for and it was great to see people don their Rescue Coordination, which runs 24/7 WELLINGTON kit and get outside to play.” from a building in Avalon, Lower Hutt. MINI-FORUM Nine attendees took the opportunity to Max and Melz Grant held the surf spend two riveting hours at the centre 1 – 2 November 2008 theory session which was a leadup to on Saturday morning. A report on that their Sunday on-water surf session. trip will be tabled separately, as will by Beverley Burnett Richard Lineham started his Rescue a report from the visit to Wellington and Towing session indoors, which Harbour Radio at Beacon Hill on the Wellington weather was unusually segued to the water. same day. Sadly, there was a search calm and warm for the month of Oc- going on at the time for a missing tober, right up until the 31st, and then Paul Caffyn and Conrad Edwards, boatie. … and then … on November 1st, the recovered from their gruelling Green- fi rst day of the WSKN mini-forum, land kayaking expedition, held indoor And then there was soup. Hot and the Wellington region was nearly sessions on weather, navigation and ef- very delicious leek and potato soup brought to a standstill by 140 kph fi cient paddling. Outside the windows, provided by Alex Lineham, wife of winds. Power lines snapped, roofs a riveting practical weather display in- Committee member Richard. The soup lifted, a van rolled on the Rimutaka cluded views from the airport of planes and bread was an excellent pick-me-up Hill Road, and two cars were blown rocking wildly during takeoff. for such a horrid day. off a road in Wainuiomata. At the Sea Cadet facility at Cog Park, the Adaptive paddling champions Bob The Committee had run a photo com- mini-forum went on regardless, and Wellington and Beverley Burnett petition prior to the forum, which was all 30 participants turned up in spite were proud to offer the fi rst inclusive judged by professional photographer of the weather. kayak forum in New Zealand. Newbie Simon Hoyle, a former network mem- disabled paddlers Joanna Maling and ber. Fergs Kayaks kindly donated The TS Amokura Sea Cadet group is Jamie Corkhill took advantage of the prizes. Before Paul Caffyn’s evening the proud owner of a new training hall opportunity and worked in dry ses- talk, Simon presented each photograph and boatsheds in Evans Bay, Welling- sions with Bob on Saturday morning on screen with comments on techni- ton. It has full disabled access, comes (see feedback from Jamie and photo cal merit and a score from 1-10, and with hot showers, a large hall, two on p.11) took the heckling with grace. He also training rooms and a full kitchen. The showed examples of how cropping can site is absolute waterfront at Cog Park, On Sunday morning Bob took Jamie improve an image. a cove in Evans Bay, which is sheltered onto the water in Bob’s adapted kayak, from the prevailing northerly, and and Joanna attended a beginner’s ses- Sue Cade won the majority of fi rsts and somewhat sheltered from a southerly. sion led by Doug Flux. The rails left honourable mentions in the competi- The Wellington City Council spent a behind at the old dry dock site proved tion with her exceptional photographs. great deal of money on landscaping the perfect for sliding a kayak into the She won the Sea kayaking section surrounding grounds which are now water. Jo and Jamie attended other with ‘Focus’, and the Open section a park, and providing ramp access to sessions of their choice along with with ‘What You Got Mate’. Celia the beaches. The Forum Committee everyone else. Both left the forum Wade-Brown won the Coastal Flora were fortunate to be able to hire the waving WSKN membership forms or Fauna section with ‘Life Under facility for the weekend. saying, “I’ll be back”. the Kayak’.

The Committee members have a life- Our keynote speaker on Saturday On the fi rst day of the forum prints time of experience with Wellington morning was Wellington Harbour of the photos were displayed so that weather and had factored in plenty of Ranger Grant Nalder, who has long people could vote for their favourite ‘Plan B’ options for gusty conditions. been a friend of our Network. He photo. Sue won the People’s Choice Hardy Wellingtonian attendees and spoke about safe use of the harbour section with ‘Stormy Day’, which ap- ‘iron-undies’ out-of-town instructor and emergency communications. At peared recently on the cover of The John Kirk-Anderson rolled up, put lunchtime Grant braved the rain with Sea Canoeist No.135). on their wet-weather gear and made his equipment that tested the buoy- the most of it. ancy of lifejackets and PFD’s. The Two of Conrad Edwards’ photographs Amokura cadets took advantage of from Greenland were exhibited hors de JKA, New Zealand’s pre-eminent the opportunity and brought out all combat. We held a caption competition kayaking instructor, was completely their lifejackets for testing. for Conrad’s photo of Paul standing in unfazed by extreme weather and took his kayak on ice and pointing into the his class out into a sheltered area of Then there was coffee and cake. Andy distance. (see rear cover of newsletter water outside the building to practice Blake brought in two wonderful cakes No.136). Surprisingly (or not) it was manoeuvring strokes. He said “I – carrot and banana. Oh yum! We won by Conrad, who collected a prize thought it got windy in Wellington? needed all those carbs to fi ght the donated by Fergs, with 1st Runner Up Seriously, as the saying goes, hardship cold and rain. to Prue Wellington, and Honourable

10 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

Mention to Melanie Grant. I can The last two sessions on Sunday The weather on Saturday meant that promise you that no bribes were of- afternoon were Safety Planning by the adaptive paddling was moved and fered to the judge (me), who was a Richard Lineham, followed by a I spent a day inside with enthusiastic little disappointed by this. Ironically, further safety session with John Kirk- Bob. We experimented with his adap- Conrad’s prize was a book on planning Anderson. Several people commented tations and got to a place where we long-distance kayaking trips. that a theory session held outdoors in both felt comfortable. It also became the sun was the perfect wind-down to very apparent that although a kayak Fergs Kayaks were kind enough to a weekend of hard activity. Unfortu- is an amazing way to explore the attend with a trailer load of new boats nately the session took longer than sea and its shorelines, it is far from to try, and a rack of cool new gear expected because planes landed or a plaything! for us to try on. By the time they left took off from the airport every four several items had been earmarked for minutes, causing a delay till we could Sunday gave a chance to get out on the Christmas presents, including the nice hear again. water and experiment with enthusias- padded paddle holders. tic Bob and his kayaks. The sensation The only bad note for the weekend of freedom to fl ow through the water Our Saturday night treat to ourselves was the sight of a kayak powered by was beautiful and something I now was to have Paul Caffyn come up an outboard motor chugging past on fi nd myself hooked on! I cannot wait from the South Island and give a Sunday afternoon. to spend more time on the water, and presentation on his and Conrad’s I look forward to the summer. trip to Greenland. Partners of forum As boats were packed and paddles attendees and some guests attended, stowed at the end of the day, we noticed a This would not have been possible because an opportunity to hear Paul couple of committee members sneaking without the support of you folks and doesn’t come very often. off for a paddle in the sunshine – a reward enthusiastic Bob so thank you. for a very successful weekend. Jamie Corkhill Sunday dawned cold, but calm. As the day went on, the wind picked up Feedback from Jamie Corkhill Visit to Beacon Hill (MOC) to a snapping 15 knot southerly, from Generally the world is designed for On Saturday afternoon with light rain which Evans Bay is partially sheltered, people who can walk and stand. This and gusty northerly winds of 50 knots, and the sun came out. The jackets came means that sometimes, daily use of a seven kayakers drove up Tio Tio Rd off and the sunscreen went on. wheelchair can be a frustrating thing. in Strathmore to Signallers Grove. We This is not the case for a kayak. It were met by two very helpful radio Max and Melz’ surf group headed off is designed for someone to sit in. operators, and spent over an hour lis- to Lyall Bay with glee. The southerly This make it an ideal play thing for tening to their work experiences and wind makes Lyall Bay ideal for surf. someone with a disability that impacts checking out their electronic equip- Every participant in the session came mobility. ment, which includes four telephones, back with ear-splitting grins, sunburn, and reports of waves half- to-one Jamie Corkhill, trying to convince the editor that it is not too cold to paddle. metre to play in, although the size of The sit-on-top kayak on the slipway has a moulded back support block and the waves seemed to get bigger with harness, designed by Bob Wellington, to allow Jamie to use his upper body every report that came in. strength for paddling. Looks like the bloke on the left is the one handicapped - second generation standing up - with knuckles dragging. And then there was cake. We didn’t Photo: Beverley Burnett think we’d get that lucky two days in a row but Andy Blake provided another two delicious cakes for morn- ing tea. Happy tummies make happy paddlers.

The group paddles to Oriental and Scorching Bays had been cancelled on Saturday, and weren’t offered on Sunday so that the on-water sessions could all take place. Forward pad- dling, manoeuvring strokes, adaptive paddling and beginners’ sessions all took place in the morning sun.

And then there was soup. Alex pro- vided delicious roast-vegetable soup, and we took the chairs and tables out into the sun to eat. What bliss.

11 No. 137 October - November 2008

Harbour entrance web cameras and more information can be found at: www.gw.govt.nz/section1541.cfm

Surf Session at Lyall Bay Sunday morning dawned overcast with very light southerly winds. Seven students and three instructors took their kayaks and surf helmets to the extreme western end of Lyall Bay. Max and Mel Grant had given a surf theory session the previous day, and Andy Blake gave an animated explanation of how to prepare to go on the water and how to get into your kayak quickly. Working in pairs, we started off learning to brace side on to small waves in 12 inches of water, progressing up to larger broken waves Maritime Operations Centre - New Zealand’s marine distress and safety and then getting right out through the radio network for NAVAREA XIV. Photo: John Kirk-Anderson surf and coming back in, either surf- ing with a ‘stern rudder’ or hurrying four VHF radios on assigned channels Kaitake ferry requested a tug to assist through a quiet patch. After an hour (the main one is Ch 14 for shipping with berthing in the high winds. the sun came out and it was a beauti- movements), a radar, wind meters on ful day, with the waves just right for four wharves, a wave-rider buoy off Beacon Hill’s ability to actually see learners. When we came off the beach Baring Head, and a computer display- what was on the water and be in touch at 12 noon, someone commented, “So ing Wellington Harbour & entrance with shipping movements via radio why are we leaving now?” with Automatic Identifi cation System and telephone make it an important (AIS) of any ships in the area (all large contact when kayaking across the When they got back to the Cadet Cen- ships including Cook Strait ferries shipping lane or through the harbour tre, you could tell who had been surfi ng carry a transponder which sends a entrance. Don’t forget the tankers that because they all had wide grins from signal via satellite showing their name, tie up at Point Howard, and their asso- ear to ear. Thanks to Sandy Winterton dimensions, current speed and number ciated tug boats, and the East by West who turned up with two cameras and of passengers). We watched the Santa ferry service (two catamarans) from took dozens of photos (see photos Regina and Arahura enter the harbour, Queens Wharf to Days Bay, sometimes inside front cover). and if we had stayed until 6pm we visiting Somes Island, Petone Wharf Beverley Burnett could have seen the pilots boarding and Seatoun Wharf. These go by the (Thanks to Brendan Comerford, of Kordia two container ships by rope ladder. The names of CityCat and CobarCat. for checking Beverley’s report)

Instruction on surfi ng before the Lyall Bay surf session. Photo: Sandy Winterton

12 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

Then came the time to experience NEW ZEALAND Coastbusters 2008, and the Inter- national Kayak Week in February TRIP REPORT 2008 followed by the KASK Forum A Coromandel Journey at Ohope. Mark Jones and Sandy Robsons’ words sent a tingle or two down my spine. They were both en- by Robbie Banks couraging of kayakers to embrace new challenges and live their dreams. No So much time, planning and prepara- matter how small or large those chal- tion goes into the success of an expedi- lenges are, they are stepping stones tion. No matter how small, the step is to a more enriched life of experi- in the right direction, towards fostering ences and special memories. What resourcefulness, determination, and life changing experiences they have sense of satisfaction, of feeling the all been, listening and learning from fear and still giving it a go. “When the so many inspirational kayakers. timing is right it will happen.” Robbie Banks in disguise as a mermaid I had to pinch myself when Sandy So my goal was achieved, 210 kms and your environment is you. That Robson joined me and a fellow club- from Fletchers Bay to Waihi Beach when the connection is made, I fi nd bie Rex on an early morning paddle .Solo. Now I am home again. equilibrium within myself without from Martins Bay to Tawharanui. We even having to try! couldn’t resist giving Sandy a quick Why did I choose to go solo? I ask tour around Kawau Island, since she myself this question many times, and It just is, simple and true, so the com- was fl ying out that afternoon to Aussie. I dose gently off to sleep with the promise of forgoing company and Sandy sure made the most of her last words from Joy Cowley fresh in my safety in numbers is the luxury of day, surfi ng it up at Tawharanui, leav- mind, ‘Darkness holds the sound of having the quiet and space to just be. ing it to the absolute last minute to get night, of the sea breathing in and out Away from the trappings of society, no off the water. It was most entertaining through the window of my soul’. traffi c jams, no four walls to encapsu- watching Paul Hayward running up late and stifl e the adventurous streak. and down the beach calling, “Sandy, Sometimes I struggle to fi nd the Sandy come back - you’ve got a plane words to describe the experiences and This is not an article about the tech- to catch!” feelings of being alone on the sea, or nicalities or safety of kayaking, it is “Just one more wave OK,” replied sitting quietly on a beautiful deserted a personal perspective from a woman Sandy and off she went. beach, feeling like no one else in the kayaker, extending her kayaking world exists. experiences. Then came fi ve days hanging out in the Bay of Islands with AJ from the After all, our daily lives seem to be When Paul Caffyn asked me if I had Netherlands, setting ourselves chal- taking on a complexity that is forever written up on my January 2008 Coro- lenges each day from a night pad- stretching the capacity of our minds, mandel solo, I had to confess that, no I dle to Urapukapuka Island, remote hearts and souls. The fast paced era hadn’t. Although I was on an absolute camping at the cape and pulling our and technology overruns our lives high from achieving a personal goal, kayaks up the rocks at the DoC hut. and any time spent out in the open that had been in the planning for some I always wanted to go there but was spaces, living totally in the moment, time, ever since hearing Paul speak at not tempted by the long hike ! Kayaks is defi nitely worth treasuring. our local kayak club about his adven- are way more fun. tures around Greenland. There is an unexplainable profound- A short break of domestic life ness to being at the mercy of the Then the feats of the two Aussie dudes before the KASK Forum, surfi ng it up elements while totally alone - both James and Justin kind of made my on Friday, listening to the Crocodile empowering and humbling. Since challenge pale in comparison. And dude, Dave Winkworth, and having the attending a slide show by Paul Caffyn if that wasn’t enough the European opportunity to fi ne-tune rolling skills, two years ago my interest and desire to chicks hit the country and the race hearing the famous Justine chuckle paddle solo has been rekindled. was on to circumnavigate the South while dining on evening feasts with Island. fellow kayakers. Why do these experiences allow me to so easily be in the moment? At peace I wondered to myself, who are these Hanging out with all these cool peo- with life simplistic in its beauty. super human people and what moti- ple, with a wealth of experience, is vates them to take on such challenges? dangerously motivating. I knew it A neologism I found for the purpose of An attempt to write anything at all would be big trouble to attend, that attempting to articulate this, ‘Environ about my wee trip down the Coro- it would spur me on to make bigger organism’ - you are your environment mandel fi zzled away. paddling plans!

13 No. 137 October - November 2008

But the real trouble started when I ers Bay. It has been a long day, having a turtle with his home on his back, plucked up enough courage to talk to to stop off in Coromandel while Rachel the freedom to go where you wish Babs Lindman, when I found out she sorts out some work details. We look unencumbered from excess. was heading back to my home town out across the Firth of Thames, white for a few days. I just couldn’t resist caps are whipping the water as we The Pinnacles tower above me and my offering to meet up. We went kayak listen to my theme song, ‘Time for a feelings are of total satisfaction and surfi ng, ate Copenhagen cones in Cool Change’. a little smug, to be leaving the noisy alleyways with ‘no eating ice cream campers and jet skis behind. here’ signs, oops! I corrupted Babs Neither Marlene nor Rachel are kayak- - she broke the ice cream law! ers, and it’s dawning on me that they I call in at Stoney to say hi to Peter and have no idea what I am doing, even Jeanette, friends of mine who run the Hiking in the rain and mist, gleaning though I have printed off copies of all camp. They invite me to dinner, tempt- photographic tips, and hot swims and my charts, rest stops and emergency ing - I say, thanks but prefer to remote girlie talk, I think we could get into get out points and stuck them on the camp around the corner, may paddle a bit of trouble together if she had fridge door back at the bach. I know back later after pitching the tent. stayed any longer! So another friend their only role is to dump me at the made and farewelled too soon. I’m top and head home, and hopefully I Once I am nestled in my cosy camp, with sure she will be back. will re-surface at Rings Beach in a no sign of another soul around, I don’t few days. (At this point they think I want to leave and paddle back to Stoney, To cut a long story short, that’s why am only paddling back to Rings, not just sit and soak up the peace, while a Coromandel trip report faded away, going the whole way). I fi gured it is sipping away on a glass of Cab Sav, until Paul Caffyn sent me an enquir- better to just take one day at a time, and woofi ng down a dehy roast lamb ing email. So if you’re still with me each day of paddling being a bonus dinner. Sweet satisfaction - I crawl into here it comes: with no pressure. Just be in the mo- bed remembering the last time I was here, ment, that’s the plan. eating red potatoes and sharing wine To paddle alone or not to paddle with friends, foraging through the creek alone? Many nights spent lying in No support crew will be greeting bed searching and fi nding a Hochstetter bed wondering why? me each night. This is it, all alone, frog. Then fall asleep dreaming of the enough gear loaded to last for a week next day ahead. Numerous dates set for the big trip and or so, only water top ups required. the weather buggered the plans again! The dawn chorus of native birds is My mind racing, fi nding strategies to The tide is slack, perfect for the short astounding, and music to my ears. I’m remove the stumbling blocks of work, evening paddle around the Pinnacles having a party in my mind and heart, children, time precious time. to Stoney Bay, just enough paddling feeling light and happy. The weather to get into the groove and soak up the gods sure are shining down with silky Before I knew it, two years had almost experience of being alone. I choose calm seas as far as I can see. The VHF slipped by! (Many weekend trips to remote camp rather than using the confi rms ideal paddling conditions and achieved but not the big kahuna). DoC camp at Stoney. if any wind at all, it will be behind I remember Paul’s comment about me. The phone reception is nil and I wishing he had done more when he After all the adrenalin and angst of don’t mind. was in his prime, and I know how packing, I feel free and easy cruising easy it is to let the everyday humdrum along alone, a liberating feeling to All distances, estimated times and take over. be loaded up, free to explore a new planned stops are clear in my mind adventure is underway ye ha! Like and backed up on laminated charts. Yet another plan was hatched to go What a poser! Robbie striking a Freya pose. Photo: Lynnis Burson for it! After the Xmas break when two other paddlers were willing to join me, A ha - fi nally come to my senses, safety and socialising in num- bers. But then, kids are going away to their dads, the sun is shining and my sister’s bach at Rings Beach is beckoning. I know the plan is to wait until friends can join me, but I quietly warn them that I am taking my gear. If the weather is right I’ve just got to give it a go! Take one day at a time and see how far I can get?

My sister and niece drive me to the top, along the winding roads to Fletch-

14 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

The main goal is to enjoy the trip along lenges of the ocean in all it’s changing the way, the luxury of not working to faces, from the smoothness of a clear any timetable, but the one I wish to warm day, to the excitement of riding create for myself - plenty of daylight the swell with the wind whipping my hours ahead, yet I can’t wait to be on face and salt spray fl ying. the water. After recording the bird life and carrying the unloaded kayak to the It is not long before the excitement of water’s edge over rocky boulders, I a decent surf landing wakes me from load up and head off around the cliffs. my dreamy state. Will my fi breglass After passing Port Charles, the peace is boat fully loaded cope with a dumpy broken by the beep of a text message, landing? Or will it crack up? Who I’m not truly alone. A message from knows, we will soon fi nd out? my sister saying there is a guy behind Robbie with a very poor imitation me on a sit on top also paddling solo I sit behind the breakers, studying the of a Freya headstand in her kayak - you’ll know him when you see him, waves. Do I have some fun and surf cockpit. Photo: Lynnis Burson he has a big curly moustache! His the face or do I play it safe and sneak name is Royd. in between the sets? Looking carefully young trendy looking couple. He has for telltale signs of submerged rocks, I taken his new girlfriend out in his I make good time and stop for a stretch allow time to watch the swell rising and dad’s tinny trying to impress, by set- at Potiki Bay. Looking down towards falling, looking for the best landing. ting a long line and catching a feed for Little Bay, I can make out boats and dinner. As the story unfolds, they are people, and feel reluctant to join the I make my run cleanly, put the power looking for my help. The dude threw holiday crowds. So the plan is to on and surf in - not a soul on the beach a line overboard while the motor was bypass them all and head around the and I exit quickly before the dumpy still running and it tangled around the point where I know there is no road waves grab my boat. prop. I lend them my knife and help access, in the hope of a second night them untangle the mess. I am tempted of remote camping. People are fi sh- My adrenalin is pumping - my mind to let them launch themselves but feel ing and swimming as I cruise on by. tricked into survival mode - from the sure it will end in further carnage, I decide to stop for a quick swim and sound of the surf breaking, triggering and the chick is defi nitely not keen some lunch. Everyone is so friendly the memory of a near death experience to get her feet wet. She is squealing and a family stop to talk and ask where on a grade 5 rapid a few years back. and complaining about the waves I am going?They look a little confused Another challenge I am constantly spraying over the bow, oblivious to and disbelieving when I answer. A working on, to alleviate the triggered me holding the bow into the waves in couple are trying to open a drink, but anxiety, to work through it and just chest-deep water while her man fi res don’t have a bottle opener, so I offer enjoy the buzz again. up the motor! them mine and join them for a beer in the sun. A quick explore fi nds a perfect camp- I am pleased to wave them goodbye, site complete with a circle of campfi re and interested to observe, not a life- It’s relaxing and fun, but the thought stones, Nikau palms and fl at grass, jacket, spare water or a tool kit in of peace and quiet and a beach to very romantic spot but the only mate sight, but their wetsuits & sunglasses myself is enticing me to move on. Just to share it with is ‘Yub,’ my yellow were pretty groovy! Mmmmm - say as I am launching, a wiry looking understanding ball - AKA Wilson from no more. dude with an impressive moustache the fi lm ‘Castaway’. approaches me. It is Royd. We chat As I wander back up to camp, I am for a while and plan to rendezvous I’ve found a new ritual of casually un- thinking, ‘Today has been more social the next day at Whangapoua. His packing while sipping on a celebratory then my average week or maybe even partner Jenny is following him down glass of red. It is entertaining to ob- month that I experience in the city.’ the coast in a campervan and his plans serve how quickly I become euphoric Mmm interesting aye? are different from mine, as he needs on one small glass of wine. to stop where Jenny can access him The night brings new challenges, in with the bus. The Oyster Catchers & Dotterels frolic the dark and alone, the sea sounds so on the sand, and I join in for an early loud and close. I have tied my kayak I desire to know the coastline inti- evening swim. Then off in the distance to a tree to ensure it greets me in the mately, to explore, to let my imagina- I can see a dinghy rowing towards the morning. The bay is long and exposed tion fl y with the Shearwaters, and drift bay. Where have they come from? to the sea - my imagination is growing, with the little blue penguin that fl oats Hope it’s not the owners arriving to dreading a rising swell and pumping off my bow. fi nd a loner kayaker has taken over waves. their pad? A realization - my pursuits and future The reality in the morning is concern- goals are to become rich in experiences I greet them at the shoreline, willing ing. The surf has increased. I know I and to continue to embrace the chal- to grease and beg to stay! They are a can handle it. The biggest concern is

15 No. 137 October - November 2008 getting a clean launch with a loaded kayak with no one to assist.

Timing is crucial, as is the positioning of the kayak. I take my time packing, a constant eye turned to the surf. One last long coffee, sipped while watch- ing and observing the waves, then the time comes. I have to leave. My nerves are getting the better of me. Just do it!

What an anticlimax! Everything goes like clockwork and I am through. I think someone is watching over me? “Thanks mate,” cheers I say under my breath, face lit with a big grin. Robbie and daughter her Jessie, being interviewed by BOPT reporter Julian Beresford. Robbie’s caption noted, ‘Just where she likes her men, on their knees’. Lunch stop at Kennedy Bay, where I Photo: Sid Salek meet some other paddlers who turn “No worries. I can kayak down to I spy some black specks in the distance out to be Royd’s brother and wife, Whitianga, you can drop my car off that slowly turn into my mates, Big cruising the coast for the afternoon in and I will drive to Coroglen pub for Steve, my boss from B.O.P. Canoe & support of Royd. We continue together the concert and carry on with my trip Kayak, Irene, Dennis and Gayle. The to Whangapoua, sharing a cup of tea the next day OK?” atmosphere is one of quiet greetings in their travel home. OK - yep that’s a plan. - we just turn around together and head back to Waihi Beach. I fi nd it strange Then it is time to continue onto Rings They disappear back to their party, to talk - I just want to soak up the last Beach. The afternoon breeze kicks leaving me alone to clean up and re- day for all I can. in, with an uncomfortable side chop pack, wash gear, and replenish water accompanying me all the way. Small supplies. I am quietly pleased to be Steve has a bottle of bubbly stashed in motor boats are whizzing in and out left alone. I feel good, my muscles the truck, but a liquor ban is in force across the bar, and I am pleased to have are feeling strong and enlivened, the and the idea of getting arrested while a chopper fl ag and refl ective tape on softness of city life feeling a long guzzling wine, standing next to the my paddles. Some launches venture way away. Canoe & Kayak truck just isn’t a good way too close for comfort, oblivious look. So we restrain ourselves and to the wash they cause! And so the solo journey continued, settle for a non-alcoholic beverage at with many magical days to follow; a a local cafe. At last I arrive at Rings Beach with two day stopover at Slipper Island no arrival party in sight - the buggers for New Years, swimming with the Steve and Irene drive me back up to are all up on the hill, enjoying an af- dolphins both days. Ha Hei, to pick up my car. A sneaky ternoon swill. I know this is a dumper drink or two in the back of the truck beach and somebody to catch my bow A rough windy crossing to Whang- fi nally gets my talking gases going and would be a very comforting thought mata, and another two nights remote the stories start fl owing. I am delivered right now. camping at a secret bay, shared with a to my friends Vivian and Andrew, and friendly entertaining family that asked they have never seen me in such a state Again the adrenalin builds I take me to keep their location quiet. before! Rather tidily and chatty - much a deep breath and go for it. OK - to everyone’s amusement! another smooth landing - my ability On the second last day I hiked up the is there, just the mind that is playing hill to soak up the view of the coast- Now I am back in the city. Thinking if doubting games, and what do you line, a pleasing sense of satisfaction someone offered me a million bucks to know the arrival party ascends! washed over me, that fi nally the goal wipe the experience, I would say no! had been achieved. (Well maybe I would take the money, Hugs and merry Xmas cheer all buy a cute house beside the sea and around, they invite me to join the party. The last day I was feeling reluctant to then go do it all again)! When I break the news that tomorrow be going back to the city so soon. Fel- I’m going to carry on, they look at me low kayakers are meeting me down the Cheers and happy 2008 may it be full as if I have lost my mind! “But what coast, so I slip out onto the sea with my of happiness and many hours spent about the Dudes concert?” Rachel two trusty companions, the Challenge kayaking on the deep blue sea. says, “I have bought you tickets for Five that has carried me this far and tomorrow night!” of course my mate Yub smiling back Robbie Banks at me from the deck bag.

16 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

thank you Nigel Foster and JKA for you, Mike was even more impressive WHAT MAKES all that skills training. - he kindly stayed close by me (in case of a half Eskimo roll event?) and A GOOD TRIP 5. Up before the sparrow fart at 5 am proceeded to calmly pass the time by to be precise to check the VHF Marine taking photos. And Rex caught fi sh. LEADER? Forecast and wake up the crew for a 6.30 am start to beat the wind (well 12. Knowledgeable and prepared. by Iona Bailey attempt to). Evan has kayaked many many kil- ometers in New Zealand. He is well I was recently privileged to participate 6. Never missed a pre launch brief- equipped and carries all the necessary in a 139 km kayaking adventure from ing. “The wind is forecast to get up safety and emergency equipment Coromandel to Whitianga with a group to 25 knots later” …and it always (including his apron of course – see of people from BASK (Bay Asso- did…every day. The briefi ng was photo below). He had paddled, or at- ciation of Sea Kayakers). The group always precise: he made sure a leader tempted to paddle around Coromandel was led by Evan Pugh, who is also a and tail end charlie were appointed, twice before. KASK committee member. We had estimated time and distance to snack / rather inclement weather with gales, rest stops and destination and advised This experience was invaluable when rain and cold but in large part due to the group to stay together and take the planning for each day to account for the excellent leadership of Evan, we pace from the slowest paddlers. (Well tides, wind and rocky hazards when had a wonderful time with lots of fun except Graeme who travels twice as negotiating the coastline and plan and adventures. fast as anyone else with half the effort places to stop and rest. Graeme also – must have been the daily shave and knew the area well and was a great So what are the attributes of a good moisturizer?) support - when we could see him. leader that I observed on this trip? 7. Responds to the needs of the group. 13. Pre trip planning. We were so 1. Pre trip briefi ng. We were told to One of our group needed to get back pleased that Graeme’s family allowed prepare for 30 km per day paddling. home for Saturday night for a HOT us to stay in their bach at Opito Bay. This didn’t quite prepare us for Day 1 DATE. Well Evan with the support The hot showers, comfortable beds – 34 km into a 20 – 25 knot headwind. of the group realized the importance and magnifi cent BBQ (thanks again A nine hour marathon, but Evan was of this important event and made sure Wendon and Rex) were amazing. always encouraging and optimistic; we arrived back in Whitianga before chirpily singing out: ‘Just around the lunch on Saturday. There is much, much more that I next corner.’ (Many times). (Another could add but suffi ce to say the trip positive attribute: Humorous) Lucky 8. Advanced paddle skills. Shit Hap- was awesome, the company excellent Wendon was on hand with soup at pens, Linda H and there was Evan in and that it would not have happened Fantail Bay. a fl ash to rescue her from a perfectly without our great leader! executed half Eskimo roll. 2. A regular kiwi bloke. Well very Thank you Evan. regular - mince and wraps on Monday, 9. Thoughtful and helpful. It was so Iona Bailey Mince and wraps on Tuesday, mince nice of Evan to offer to move the and wraps on Wednesday etc.…. But tents submerged in the paddock after of course all prepared with a minimum the rain. And provide a large weath- of resources and maximum enjoyment. erproof tarp under which to escape the wind and weather. And always 3. The feral touch. Lynnis, was im- on hand to help lift and carry boats. pressed with Evan’s feral good looks What a man! (but preferred gorgeous Graeme). Evan took this on the (feral) chin of 10. Leads by example. Evan was a course and never turned a hair (He swampy (referring to the camping spot was more than supported by Phil and chosen by Evan and some of the group) Mike, who also opted to remain feral who despite much derision from the for the duration). Coasters (referring to the camping spot of the rest of the group) maintained 4. Embraces the difference between his humour and bonhomie. group members. And talking of brac- ing we did lots of that on this trip, espe- 11. Skillful. Evan’s paddling skills cially on Day 7 crossing the Matarangi are impressive. Whilst I was being Bar and around to Opito Bay in 25 knot tossed around like a cork in a washing The glorious trip leader wearing his plus tail winds and a 0.5 – 1m chop machine, Evan was surfi ng the waves wishful thinking BBQ apron. coming from every direction. OMG and making encouraging noises. Mind Photo: Iona Bailey

17 No. 137 October - November 2008

while Zane and Rodily carried on. Our Benjamin our host came to meet us in lunch stop was on the beach by Seghe his ‘motorised canoe’ ie. a fi breglass OVERSEAS airport, where we had fl own in two boat with an outboard and we got a TRIP REPORT days earlier, then we headed off again ride back to his Matikuri lodge. continuing south, now into a 10 knot headwind, paddling past little islands Next day we headed back to Seghe and Solomons Sojourn that lay along our route. then paddled to Chumbikopi village by David Fisher on Marovo Island. This was where (see also colour photos on p.23) We arrived at Matikuri Lodge built our guide Rodily lived, and most of right on the waters edge (as these tour- the Solomon Island staff from Uepi Warm tropical water and a sheltered ist lodges around the lagoon typically resort lived in this village too. We lagoon lured us to the Solomon Island’s were). Here we had our own ‘leaf hut’ were the fi rst kayaking guests to stay in Marovo lagoon in August 2007. Ini- which was a short walk away from the their accommodation, built to accom- tially inspired by an article in The Sea main building where food was served modate visiting religious leaders. The Canoeist Newsletter in 1998, this area on the verandah. local kids hung around to be shooed had been on our wanted to go to list for off by the adults. We wandered along a while, but ‘ethnic tension’ in 2000 Next day we set off in calm seas to the village path that afternoon and and subsequent unrest meant we had the Bapita area. After paddling across watched a soccer game and admired shelved these plans until this year. the bottom corner of the lagoon we their big new church. paddled through a narrow channel The Marovo Lagoon is off the SE coast apparently blasted by some New Next day was our shortest scheduled of New Georgia Island in the Western Zealanders to provide easier access day paddling on eastward to Roga- Province of the Solomon Islands. Our to the ocean for the locals. This chan- sakena Lodge, about eight nautical trip was based out of Uepi resort, a nel led us to the open ocean beside a miles by the map. Diane and I headed small island on the outer barrier reef limestone island with undercut cliffs. off ahead crossing the bays and then that had a great reputation for SCUBA We passed several dugouts mostly explored the coast by the points. While diving and snorkelling. paddled by young people who seemed waiting in the shade under some trees a to be ‘hanging out’ or perhaps fi shing woman showed us some carvings that Our plan was for eight days paddling in the area. her son had for sale but we politely round the Marovo lagoon with a local declined. Solomon Islander guide organised by I (David ) was a little weary this day Kayak Solomons based from Uepi. and later put this down to not drink- We stopped along the way and walked ing enough. I waded into the sea at up to a waterfall guided by a local After a days ‘orientation’ at Uepi which our lunch stop to cool off and was couple. The interesting part of this included familiarising ourselves with disappointed to fi nd the sea about the side trip was stopping to fi nd and eat the Perception Sea Lion single plastic same temperature, but ducking under Ngali nuts on the way. These nuts are kayaks and some rolling practice in the the warm surface layer I managed to about the size of an almond and we warm 30 degree water, we packed our cool off slightly. crushed the hard outer shell between gear in dry bags supplied and headed two rocks. off the next day. Diane in camoufl age sun protection clothing. Photo: David Fisher Our fi rst days destination was 18 nautical miles away. Not sure of how we would fi nd paddling in the warm 30 degree air temperature, we headed off at 20 knots under outboard power to the Mindeminde group of islands 5 miles closer to our destination. We were four paddlers, Diane, David, Zane an Australian guy and Rodily our local guide.

It was warm and sunny with only a slight breeze as we wove our way through the Mindeminde Island group, then we had a three mile crossing to the next point. Rounding this point, some of the houses of Patutiva village were lined up alongside the water, and children waved or paddled over in their dugouts to say hello. We lingered here

18 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

Ralph’s place, Rogosakena, was a fallen into disrepair, and we were two metre swells meant that we trav- compact lodge with two bedrooms, accommodated in a western style elled to Biche by ‘motorised canoe’, small kitchen area along the back and building that reminded us of an Aus- organised by Cory an Australian who we dined on the side deck. Diane and sie batch with glass louvres and built runs nearby Wilderness Lodge with I had the best room on the seaward high up on concrete piles so we could his local Solomon Island wife. Cory side that opened up on three sides. I walk underneath. sent us off with his best boat driver lazed away the afternoon watching John ‘who hasn’t rolled a boat yet’ he the local boat traffi c including dug- Our initial calm to slight seas of the told us later. Apparently most of his outs, ‘motorised canoes’ and logging trip had changed to steady east to south other local boat drivers have tipped barges go past. Ralph didn’t have the east winds of 20 to 25 knots, which was the outboard powered fi breglass boats usual HF radio which is the standard good to keep any mosquitoes away, – not good for the outboard. John skill- communication around the Marovo and we didn’t use the mosquito nets fully picked his way through the seas Lagoon. However Batuna village was supplied here. We had used mosquito to Biche, where we landed on a rocky only a few minutes paddle round the nets at night in all the other lodges platform just awash in the waves. corner so Zane paddled off with Ralph around the lagoon and we were taking to communicate with Uepi about some Doxycycline antimalarial tablets as a After walking back from Biche to antibiotics for an ear infection he precaution. Ropiko the next day we had another developed SCUBA diving. day exploring the area on foot where Next day was scheduled for a visit Diane met a man fi nishing off a dugout All the other lodges we stayed at had, to a ‘custom village’ of Biche on the canoe. The village had a high school or had access to an HF radio, typcially ‘weather coast’ exposed to the south where students boarded for the week powered by an old truck battery and east winds. Our arrangement was that and a grass airstrip nearby. Aid monies charged by solar panel. Several places Diane and David could paddle this sec- had recently set up what I refer to as also had generators that were started up tion weather permitting but not Zane. an ‘Internet café’ a building with six in the evening to power a fl uorescent A steady 20 knots or so of wind with laptops and a satellite dish complete light to illuminate our dining table. A dugout canoe under construction. Photo: David Fisher We had a longer paddle scheduled the next day and headed off island hop- ping south towards Ropiko Lodge. Zane had gone ahead in a ‘motorised canoe’ from Uepi that was ferrying his luggage down to Ropico as he was fl ying out from there.

We were paddling south into a slight headwind island hopping beside islands about 0.5 to 2 n. miles apart. The Uepi boat returned after dropping Zane off and offered us a ride which we accepted, taking us about 5 miles along our route. Zane was waiting for us and the four of us set out again outside the main lagoon partially protected from the wind by an island to the east.

Our destination lay on the outer coast facing east and exposed to the prevailing south easterly trade winds. We paddled past two young girls in dugouts who we understood to be paddling home from school for lunch, about an hours paddle. In a limited conversation I gathered they had been studying maths that morning relating to the time of day.

The original Ropiko lodge buildings including the waterfront lodge had

19 No. 137 October - November 2008 with solar panels and a big battery bank. Courses were being run on Word, CALENDAR and email with internet access was available for about $1 NZ per hour. KASK FORUM 2009 On our last day paddling there was February 20 - 23 just the three of us, Zane having ANAKIWA fl own out to Honiara and home that morning after delays waiting for the Newsletter No. 136 included a registration form for the KASK FORUM. airstrip to dry out after the moderate Do not delay in sending off your completed form and cheque. rain we’d had. We paddled north inside Evan Pugh was rather strict at the Ohope Forum when the registrations the barrier reef islands. We negotiated reached the maximum allocated. See also the KASK website for a down- to get a decent paddling distance in, loadable registration form. getting away shortly after 8 am for a scheduled pickup at 1300 and about Two guest speakers on both Friday and Saturday nights as well as a day pad- 14 miles paddling. All to soon it was dle on Saturday for those that do not wish to partake in the range of training over and we arrived at Radio Point sessions on each day. And don’t forget the Sunday night camp-out at Mistle- with the Uepi boat was there a few toe bay, and the real good food and accommodation which is all inclusive in minutes later and we were off at 15 your registration cost. Evan Pugh knots back to Uepi.

Dave Winkworth, one of two notable We enjoyed the luxury of a cabin to Australian expedition paddlers who will be ourselves with the use of the kayaks for attending the ‘09 forum, will be showing the next two days, circumnavigating slides of his recent trip from Karumba to Uepi Island (easily done in less than Darwin, and running workshops on the an hour ) with a stop for a snorkel at water. This recent photo is of Dave in a the far end of the island, and a paddle Canberra hosptial, with his wrist in a cast. round neighbouring Charapona Island But to learn if the injury was suffered in and more snorkelling. fending off an attack by a crocodile, shark or rabid possum, all will be revealed at the Anakiwa 2009 forum. As Dave is left Independent paddlers should be able handed, I reckon the photo was set up as to sea kayak in the Marovo the lagoon an excuse for not being able to type a trip if they arrange to get their own kayaks report for the newsletter. there. There were interisland freighters and a high speed ferry that travelled To think about for the 2009 Anakiwa KASK Forum to and from Honiara. ANNUAL AWARDS: - Paddle Trophy Award for oustanding contribution to sea kayaking We took our own split paddles; as - Paddle Trophy Away for outstanding contribution to the newsletter these were lighter than the standard - The “Bugger!” Trophy - worst or most embarrassing moment aluminium shaft ones supplied. (send nominations in a plain brown email to Evan Pugh or the Editor) References: www.kayaksolomons.com - The Prestigious Foto Competition www.uepi.com (bring your fotos to the forum. Details in the newsletter No.136)

All distances referred to in miles, KASK AGM Saturday 21 February 2009 are nautical miles, = 1 minute of - Admin, fi nance and committee reports latitude (locally) = 1.85 km. - Nominations for elected committee positions - Motions for the AGM Clarence River DVD (send committee nominations, and AGM motions to Linda Ingram, Re Maggie Oakley’s report in n/l 136, [email protected] or the mail address, 30 days prior to the AGM) I emailed Maggie for information on where the $10 from DVD sales was POST-FORUM TRIPS going to. ‘The Clarence River DVD If you expressed interest in trips on your registration form, contact will was made as a permanent record of be made via email to liaise re what trips are planned. what we need to conserve. OCKC is the Otago Canoe and Kayak Club; CANTERBURY NETWORK they were supportive of project and I ANNUAL OKAINS BAY pass $10 from every sale to them for WEEKEND - 2009 conversation work.’ Okains Bay ‘The Sea Kayakers’ Gathering’ - possible dates - 31 January – 1 February OR 14 - 15 February 2009. The earlier date seems to be preferable.

20 The Sea Canoeist Newsletter

HUMOUR Annoyed by what he perceived to be sex was so good that I fainted. If you Eggsacting Joke the pump’s haughty attitude, he drew do manage to track down the father, John the farmer was in the fertilized his ray gun and said impatiently, can you send me his phone number? egg business. He had several hundred “Greetings, Earthling. We come in Thanks. young layers (hens), called ‘pullets’, peace. Do not ignore us this way! Take 4. I don’t know the identity of the and ten roosters, whose job it was to us to your leader or I will fi re!” father of my daughter. He drives a fertilize the eggs. The older alien again warned his BMW that now has a hole made by comrade saying, “You probably don’t my stiletto in one of the door panels. The farmer kept records and any want to do that! I really don’t think Perhaps you can contact BMW service rooster that didn’t perform went into you should make him mad.” stations in this area and see if he’s had the soup pot and was replaced. That “Rubbish,” replied the cocky, young it replaced. took an awful lot of his time, so he alien. He aimed his weapon at the 5. I have never had sex with a man. bought a set of tiny bells and attached pump and opened fi re. There was a I am awaiting a letter from the Pope them to his roosters. Each bell had a huge explosion. A massive fi reball confi rming that my son’s conception different tone so John could tell from roared towards them and blew the was immaculate and that he is Christ a distance, which rooster was perform- younger alien off his feet and deposited risen again. ing. Now he could sit on the porch and him a burnt, smoking mess about 200 6. I cannot tell you the name of child fi ll out an effi ciency report simply by yards away in a cactus patch. A’s dad as he informs me that to do so listening to the bells. Half an hour passed. When he fi nally would blow his cover and that would regained consciousness, he refocused have cataclysmic implications for the The farmer’s favorite rooster was old his three eyes, straightened his bent an- British economy. I am torn between Butch, a very fi ne specimen he was, tenna, and looked dazedly at the older, doing right by you and right by the too. But on this particular morning wiser alien who was standing over him country. Please advise. John noticed old Butch’s bell hadn’t shaking his big, green head. 7. I do not know who the father of rung at all! John went to investigate. “What a ferocious creature!” ex- my child was as all squaddies look The other roosters were chasing claimed the young, crispy alien. “He the same to me. I can confi rm that he pullets, bells-a-ringing. The pullets, damn near killed me! How did you was a Royal Green Jacket. hearing the roosters coming, would know he was so dangerous?” 8. Peter Smith is the father of child run for cover. The older alien leaned over, placed A. If you do catch up with him, can a friendly feeler on his fried friend you ask him what he did with my But to Farmer John’s amazement, old and replied, “If there’s one thing AC/DC CDs? Butch had his bell in his beak, so it I’ve learned during my intergalactic 9. From the dates it seems that my couldn’t ring. He’d sneak up on a pul- travels, you don’t want to mess with daughter was conceived at Euro let, do his job and walk on to the next a guy who can loop his penis over Disney; maybe it really is the Magic one. John was so proud of old Butch, his shoulder twice and then stick it Kingdom. he entered him in the Renfrew County in his ear.” 10. So much about that night is a Fair and he became an overnight sen- blur. The only thing that I remember sation among the judges. UK Child Support Agency for sure is Delia Smith did a program The following are all replies that Brit- about eggs earlier in the evening. If The result...The judges not only ish women have put on Child Support I’d have stayed in and watched more awarded old Butch the No Bell Piece Agency forms in the section for listing TV rather than going to the party at Prize but they awarded him the Pul- father’s details. These are genuine 146 Miller Drive, mine might have letsurprise as well. excerpts from the forms: remained unfertilised.

Aliens 1. Regarding the identity of the father Family Jewels Two aliens landed their spacecraft near of my twins, child A was fathered by T. B. Bechtel, a part-time City Coun- a petrol station on the Nullarbor Plain Jim Munson. I am unsure as to the cilman from Newcastle, was asked on that was closed for the night. They ap- identity of the father of child B, but I a local live radio talk show, just what proached one of the petrol pumps and believe that he was conceived on the he thought of the allegations of torture the younger alien addressed it saying, same night. of the Iraqi prisoners. “Greetings, Earthling. We come in 2. I am unsure as to the identity of the His reply prompted his ejection from peace. Take us to your leader.” father of my child as I was being sick the studio, but to thunderous applause The petrol pump, of course, didn’t out of a window when taken unexpect- from the audience. respond. edly from behind. I can provide you His statement: The younger alien became angry at with a list of names of men that I think “If hooking up an Iraqi prisoner’s nuts the lack of response. were at the party if this helps. to a car’s battery cables will save just The older alien said, “I’d calm down 3. I do not know the name of the father one Australian’s life, then I have just if I were you.” of my little girl. She was conceived three things to say,” The younger alien ignored the warn- at a party at 36 Grand Avenue where “Red is positive. Black is negative, and ing and repeated his greeting. Again, I had unprotected sex with a man I make sure his nuts are wet.” there was no response. met that night. I do remember that the

21 No. 137 October - November 2008 4th. Ed. KASK HANDBOOK Rotorua Kayak Club KASK 7 Mahana Place, Rotorua KASK, the Kiwi Association of Sea Updated to March 2008 Ph: (027) 292 3138 Kayakers (N.Z.) Inc., a network of For trade orders of this mother of all email: [email protected] New Zealand sea kayakers, has the sea kayaking handbooks, contact Paul GISBORNE Sea Kayakers Club objectives of: Caffyn, RD 1, Runanga, 7873, West John Humphris, 3 Matthews Rd, Gisborne 1. promoting and encouraging the Coast. Ph/fax: (03)7311806 Ph: (06) 868 4657 sport of sea kayaking e-mail: [email protected] email: [email protected] 2. promoting safety standards Shop RRP: $34.90 Website:www.geocities.com/gis- 3. developing techniques & Price to KASK members only, borne_sea_kayakers/ equipment including p&p, $22.50 4. dealing with issues of coastal Make cheques out to KASK (NZ) Inc. WELLINGTON Sea Kayak Network access and protection and mail to KASK Administrator: Mike Wilkin 5. organizing an annual sea kayak PO Box 23 Runanga, 7841 West Coast 23 A Ilam Grove forum New members: gratis Kelson, Lower Hutt 6. publishing a bimonthly Phone: (04) 565 0880 newsletter. The fourth edition of the KASK Hand- book, is a mammoth compilation on all email: [email protected] Website: www.wskn.wellington.net.nz The Sea Canoeist Newsletter is aspects of sea kayaking in New Zea- published bimonthly as the offi cial land, by many of the most experienced newsletter of the Kiwi Association paddlers in the Universe. Following SOUTH ISLAND of Sea Kayakers (N.Z.) Inc. a brief introduction, the handbook is MARLBOROUGH Articles, trips reports, book reviews, divided into six sections: Martyn Smith equipment reviews, new techniques, - Kayak, Paddle & Equipment Ph: (03) 577 6256 letter to the editor, and moments when -Techniques & Equipment [email protected] the word ‘Bugger!’ was said singu- - The Elements NELSON - KASK Contact larly or often {referred to by some as - Trips and Expeditions Nora Flight incidents} are sought to enliven the - Places to Go - Resources Ph: (03) 544 7877 pages of the newsletter. email: nfl [email protected] SEA KAYAKING CANTERBURY Sea Kayak Send in a plain brown envelope, or NETWORK ADDRESSES Network via cybermail to: NORTH ISLAND Andy & Deirdre Sheppard Editor: Paul Caffyn, NORTHLAND Canoe Club 53 Kent Lodge Ave RD 1, Runanga. 7873 PO Box 755, Whangarei Avonhead, Christchurch. 8004 West Coast .N.Z. Catherine Keleher Ph: (03) 342 7929 Ph/Fax: (03) 7311806 Ph: (09) 436 0341 email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] email: [email protected] www.CanterburySeaKayak.orcon.net.nz AUCKLAND Canoe Club OTAGO KASK Annual Subscription PO Box 9271, Mark Robertson $35 single membership Newmarket, Auckland. [email protected] ($105 for 3 years; $175 for 5 years) email:[email protected] Ph: (03) 472 7313 (021) 450075 $40 family membership. HAURAKI Kayak Group $35 overseas Pelham Housego SOUTHLAND Sea Kayak Network A subscription form can be down- PO Box 46-146, Herne Bay, Auckland Stan Mulvany loaded from the KASK website. WAIKATO KASK Contact 03 215 7263 Cheques should be made out to: Evan Pugh, RD2, Putaruru. 3482 email: [email protected] K.A.S.K. (NZ) Inc. & mailed to: [email protected] Website: www.sskn.uniformnz.com KASK Administrator Ph: (07) 883 6898 PO Box 23, Runanga. 7841 RUAHINE Whitewater Club SKOANZ West Coast 71 Salisbury St., Ashhurst. Sea Kayak Operators Assn. NZ Correspondence/Queries to: Ph: 06 326 8667 Fax: 06 326 8472 PO Box 6269, Dunedin North email: [email protected] Linda Ingram www.q-kayaks.co.nz/pages/club.asp Website: www.skoanz.org.n KASK Administrator BAY OF PLENTY - KASK Contact PO Box 23, Runanga. 7841 Iona Bailey, Tauranga KASK Website: West Coast Ph: (07) 576 1492 email: [email protected] www.kask.org.nz Send address changes for re- ROTORUA- KASK Contact ceiving the newsletter via email John Flemming, PO Box 1872, to Linda at: Rotorua Colour photos on p.23: Above and [email protected] Ph/fax: (07) 347 9950 below the sea at the Solomons. See email: [email protected] story on p.18. Photos: David Fisher

22

MAILED TO

If undelivered, please return to: KASK , PO Box 23, Runanga, West Coast. 7841

Gale north-westerly winds fanning whipping up williwaws behind the moored yachts, on day one of the Wellington Forum. Photograph: John Kirk-Anderson

KASK MEMBERSHIP POLICY Current membership fees are: - $35 for ordinary membership - $40 for family or joint membership - $35 for overseas membership - new members receive a free copy of the handbook - members should endeavour to renew by 1 August - the KASK fi nancial year runs 1 August to 31 July the following year - a subscription due notice and up to two reminders are sent out with the newsletters between June and October - if a membership renewal is not received by 30 September, membership lapses - new members who join between 1 June and 31 July automatically get their membership credited to the following year, receiving a 14 month membership - the KASK committee puts its emphasis confi rming renewals from existing members from July to October; and pro- moting new KASK memberships from November to February.