Oreti River May 8th - Trip Report
A very satisfactory and worthwhile time was spent on Saturday on the Oreti river despite the windy forecast that didn't eventuate. Sometimes it pays to ignore the weather forecast!!
Seven members attended. Ian, John, Pam, Keri, Melanie, Allison, Belinda.
Well done to Melanie who put her flash new kayak into the water for the first time, and also to Allison with her new boat. I can assure you that you will not regret your purchases. Hours of fun are ahead of you.
6 paddlers decided to continue upstream for some more kilometres. Ian and John went further again up to the confluence of the Waikiwi Stream.
The area of the river between the Water-ski Club and Dunns Road bridge is a good safe option for anyone who just wants to get fit and get used to their boat.
Specific Safety precautions for beginners: (if there is any wind about)
STAY CLOSE to the west bank. Once the wind (westerly especially) catches you it will blow you over to the other side, possibly into the mud, and it can be very frustrating and tiring getting back. Until you have had more experience it is better not to go downstream of the club or into the estuary area due to wind, mud flats, and losing the channel. If the wind comes up and you have lost the depth of water for a decent deep paddle stroke you may end up having to walk and drag your boat.
This is NOT fun.
Regarding clothing - please read the KASK handbook.
Noel, There were some very interesting comments regarding your recent trip reports. You're scaring some people spitless!! But as you have said it is only because of the training weekend and surf practice that has made such trips fun and manageable.
Belinda Mulvany
Seven members attended. Ian, John, Pam, Keri, Melanie, Allison, Belinda.
Well done to Melanie who put her flash new kayak into the water for the first time, and also to Allison with her new boat. I can assure you that you will not regret your purchases. Hours of fun are ahead of you.
6 paddlers decided to continue upstream for some more kilometres. Ian and John went further again up to the confluence of the Waikiwi Stream.
The area of the river between the Water-ski Club and Dunns Road bridge is a good safe option for anyone who just wants to get fit and get used to their boat.
Specific Safety precautions for beginners: (if there is any wind about)
STAY CLOSE to the west bank. Once the wind (westerly especially) catches you it will blow you over to the other side, possibly into the mud, and it can be very frustrating and tiring getting back. Until you have had more experience it is better not to go downstream of the club or into the estuary area due to wind, mud flats, and losing the channel. If the wind comes up and you have lost the depth of water for a decent deep paddle stroke you may end up having to walk and drag your boat.
This is NOT fun.
Regarding clothing - please read the KASK handbook.
Noel, There were some very interesting comments regarding your recent trip reports. You're scaring some people spitless!! But as you have said it is only because of the training weekend and surf practice that has made such trips fun and manageable.
Belinda Mulvany