Overview of Kayak Competencies
This is an overview of required competencies for unguided usage at Vector Wero Whitewater Park
Flat-water
This is the lake area at the bottom of the conveyer including the mouths of the short and long whitewater courses.
The candidate will be able to demonstrate
- Forward and backwards paddling
- Sweep strokes
- Emergency stop
- Wet exit
- Swimming with kayak and paddle
Candidate must receive a flat-water briefing.
Candidate must sign a user declaration form and risk disclosure/terms and conditions form.
Short Course
This is the Tamariki River and easier course with Grade 2 water. The requirements for unguided usage are good water confidence, basic maneuvering skills in moving water, and self-rescue skills.
Competencies for unguided usage
In addition to Flat-water competencies the candidate is able to demonstrate:
- Strong forward and backwards paddling in a straight line
- Strong sweep strokes
- Break into tailrace current from eddy maintaining kayak stability
- Roll in the tailrace at end of short course 2 times from 3 attempts (not required for non-decked inflatable kayaks and packrafts)
- Defensive swimming skills in Grade 2 water
- Briefing on throw bag scenario is given
Candidate must receive a short-course briefing.
Candidate must sign a user declaration form and risk disclosure/terms and conditions form.
Long Course and Waterfall
This is the River Rush and more difficult course with Grade 3-4 water. The requirements for unguided usage are solid water confidence, excellent maneuvering skills, and reliable self-rescue skills. SOT kayaks are not permitted on this course.
Competencies for unguided usage
In addition to competencies required for the short course the candidate is able to demonstrate:
- Competently manage their kayak and catch eddies confidently on Grade 2 water
- 5 from 5 rolls in Grade 2 rapids
- Defensive swimming skills in Grade 2 water
- Briefing on throw bag scenario is given
- Observation of participant on Grade 3-4, good control of their craft, rolling with a high degree of success
- Good course etiquette
- Demonstrate appropriate body positioning for waterfall