Prologue Series Information

  • Race One

    Sunday 5th October 2025

  • Race Two

    Sunday 23rd November 2025

  • Race Three

    Sunday 18th January 2026

  • Info

    Start Location: Woodstock Downs, Waimakariri River

    Finish Location: Waimakariri Gorge Bridge, Waimakariri River

    Distance: 14km

    Registration: 8am – 8.45 am

    Safety Briefing: 9am – Compulsory for all competitors

    Race Start: 9.15am

    Race Categories:

    📍 Open – Age 16 and over

    📍 Veteran – Age between 40 – 49

    📍 Classic – Age 50 and over

    📍 Doubles – Any age and combination

    📍 Novice – Age 16 and over

    Race Director: Katie Cambie – 021 51 61 75

Pre Race Email 

In the days leading up to each of the events an email will be sent to all confirmed competitors confirming the race course, expected weather and river conditions along with detailed directions to both the race start line, finish line and parking information. 

Race Registration

Race registration will be from 8am – 8.45am each morning at the race start location. You must register your attendance at each race. Failure to do so will result in a DNF. 

PLEASE NOTE: You must bring your PFD with your whistle and survival bag attached (your survival bag may be in a pocket of your PFD) along with your compulsory gear in your dry bag to registration. This gear will be checked as part of the registration process. 

Grade II Certificate 

It is recommended that each competitor has a Grade II Certificate of competency from an approved Coast to Coast provider. Parts of this race series is run on Grade II sections of river. It is expected that every competitor has the river knowledge and skill of a Grade II standard. Topsport Kayaking will have members of our safety team at any significant hazards on the day. Our team are there to manage any potential risk and rescue competitors ONLY when necessary. It is expected that if you have a swim during the race at any point you are capable of swimming with your kayak and paddle safely to the side. If you are unable to do this then please do not enter this race series. 

If you do not have a Grade II Certificate you will be required to outline your previous river kayaking experience when completing your race entry. If Topsport Kayaking does not feel your experience is acceptable to compete in the race series safely you will be notified via email and your entry fee returned. 

Refund Policy 

No refunds will be given after the 1st of September 2024. All refunds prior to his will incur a $30 admin fee. If a race is cancelled due to an extreme weather event or act of God no refunds or transfers will be given. Please see earlier information regarding our alternative course in the event of high winds or water.