| nathan@tenevents.co.nz | |
| Okiwi Bay, South Island, New Zealand | |
| http://www.tourdetasman.co.nz/ | |
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This year the iconic Surfski event leaves its spiritual home in the Able Tasman in search of wind and waves.
After 6 years its time for a change and this year the Tour heads to the other side of Tasman Bay: An hour north east of Nelson lies the aquatic adventure playground of Okiwi bay.
Stunning beaches, big cliffs and sandy bays will frame the new Tour destination with its more open ocean vibe. Warm crystal clear water and a later date to maximize Tasman Bay’s sea breeze conditions and longer daylight hours should have Ski paddlers everywhere amping for action.
The Tour will be based from bush clad Okiwi bay with plenty of accommodation options from camping and cabins to the many baches available to rent; bring a ski, bring a boat, bring the whole family!
Day one will involve 4 stage races out through the Islands and north along the coast to explore some virgin paddling territory before returning to Okiwi for a Saturday night BBQ. Day two will see a warm stage then 2 longer downwind races from Okiwi to Kokorua inlet and on down to finish in Delaware Bay.
There will be an organized shuttle back to Okiwi. This will be true adventure paddling to locations few ski paddlers have yet explored.
With event founder Nathan Fa’avae wintering over in Queenstown this year’s Tour will be run by Neil Taylor (Fresh back from the Molokai and Tahiti’s Maaramu race) and Sam Dillon (The Ginger Pirate who has raced all 6 previous Tours. )
Warm water, good racing and good company and to top it off a super-affordable $100 entry fee...... now what is there not to love about that: Get on your Ski and kick start your summer.