A group of Year 9 students from Rutherford College spent the day learning on and alongside the Whau River — trying coastal rowing, kayaking through mangroves, and assessing freshwater quality. The event brought together West End Rowing Club, Auckland Council, and Te Whau Pathway Project, something teachers appreciated, telling us how valuable it was to see different organisations collaborate to deliver an awa-themed experience.
Finding rhythm on the water
Coastal rowing was a completely new skill for most students, but confidence built quickly under the guidance of five young rowing coaches. Many students began unsure how to hold an oar, yet by the end were rowing in time, competing in friendly races, and discovering just how physical rowing can be. One student’s favourite moment was when a coach asked if they’d rowed before — despite it being their first time. Amazing what a little flattery can do for confidence!
Coach Maelys Tome Belmonte, who was a rower for seven years in France, was surprised at just how fast the learning curve was:
“Beginning was hard, but after ten minutes they were sweet. They learned fast and worked well together.”
Maelys also pointed out something unique about the Whau compared to French rivers:
“In France our rivers are straight. Here you have to manoeuvre depending on the water — it’s interesting.”
Josh Murphy commented on the wide river and the breeze that occasionally nudged boats sideways:
“It was a wee bit windy… but pretty nice today. A wide river, good for rowing.”
Meanwhile James Nielson enjoyed seeing the progress unfold:
“They were surprisingly good after an hour. It’s not something you usually learn that quickly.”
Coaches reflected that the activities encouraged excellent behaviour, strong teamwork and a willingness to step beyond comfort zones in their students — something evident in every boat that pushed off the pontoon, a little more confidently each time.
Independent kayaking
Kayaking offered a more individual perspective of the awa. Students paddled in single kayaks through mangroves, tested their balance and learned steering techniques! For many, kayaking became the favourite part of the day, offering freedom to explore channels and enjoy the river up close. Some bolder students also tested out challenges like standing up or doing push-ups on their kayaks!
Water science
Between on-water sessions, students shifted into environmental learning with the Te Whau Pathway Project. They tested water clarity, searched for freshwater critters, identified native plants and trees, and discussed how biodiversity signals river health. They learned that mangroves thrive in saltwater, shags watch everything with a sharp eye, and that the tiniest insects can reveal more about water quality than first impressions do. Teachers highlighted the walk and water investigation session as a meaningful way to link recreation and environmental stewardship.
Seeing the Whau through new eyes
For many students, this was their first time seeing the Whau from a boat. Lyann Ota, familiar with a part of the Whau further up, was surprised by the difference:
“It looks much cleaner and bigger here compared to where we are — much smaller and not as clean.”
She also recalled the old narrow wooden jetty at Roberts Field — once a wobbly childhood landmark — and was glad to hear that future upgrades will improve safety and access next year.
New rower Mila Erakovich captured the challenge well:
“Coordinating as a team was really hard… and dealing with the paddles took some getting used to.”
Growing future kaitiaki
By the end of the day, students weren’t just talking about rowing technique or kayak races — they were talking about how to look after their river. Many left discussing picking up rubbish, preventing litter, planting more native trees, caring for habitats, and sharing what they had learned about biodiversity. With new awareness, new skills and a strong sense of pride, students walked away understanding that the Whau is more than water — it’s a living place they have a role in protecting.
Closing reflections
Thank you to West End Rowing Club, Auckland Council, and Te Whau Pathway Project for helping make this day possible. It was a memorable mix of movement, learning and connection and a day that grew confidence, curiosity and care for the Whau.
Here’s to more paddles in the water, more learning outdoors, and more young people discovering the joy of being on the awa.
Big thanks to the New Zealand Government, Henderson Massey and Whau Local Boards and The Trusts for the funding that helps make these events possible. Thanks also to the Auckland Council for providing project management and coordination. A shout out to bus company K/NET/C for the free bus transport for the rangatahi and the schools who have so willingly participated.
