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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