Pōneke Watersports

Pōneke Watersports is a Wellington-based dragon boat club, established in 2009 and the largest of its kind in the region. Its energetic, welcoming community brings together paddlers of different ages and experience levels, with opportunities to participate recreationally or competitively. The club has five teams that take part in the annual Wellington Dragon Boat Festival and also attends regattas and national events around New Zealand, as well as events overseas.

Training takes place year-round in Wellington City, with boats launching from Whairepo Lagoon. The official Wellington season generally runs from late December to mid-March, alongside scheduled events in the cooler months and winter off-season paddling. Coaches and experienced paddlers help newcomers learn, and the club offers teams suited to a range of interests and abilities.

Pōneke Watersports holds open days throughout the year for people who want to try dragon boating before joining. It also shares information about club activities, training sessions, festivals and other events.