Poverty Bay Kayak Club secured $66k in funding from Trust Tairāwhiti to restore and upgrade its clubhouse facility.
Since 1983, the club has nurtured paddlers of all levels across Tairāwhiti, offering experiences ranging from Sunday paddles and ‘have a go’ sessions, to training world-class competitors, some of whom are training for the next Olympics.
A leaking roof, broken gutters, outdated water systems, deteriorating bathrooms and unsafe infrastructure have compromised the facility’s usability, limiting the club’s capacity to serve as an asset for its members and the wider community. Upgrades and restoration efforts will address these issues, improving accessibility for paddlers of all ages and abilities, focusing on Tairāwhiti rangatahi.
Through their ‘have a go’ sessions and holiday programmes, Poverty Bay Kayak Club ensures accessible opportunities for tamariki and their whānau to explore paddling.
Currently, the clubhouse is used by the Poverty Bay Kayak Club members and the Gisborne Rowing Club. During winter, the space is also shared with Surf Lifesaving Clubs and other community groups.
“This funding is a huge boost for our club and the community we serve. With this funding, we have aspirations for wider community access. It’s more than just fixing a building, it’s about creating a safe, welcoming and functional space where people of all ages can connect with the awa, build skills and grow together.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Trust Tairāwhiti for believing in our vision. This upgrade will allow us to expand our reach and impact, especially for our young paddlers. Exciting times are ahead for our club and paddling in Tairāwhiti,” says a Poverty Bay Kayak Club committee representative.