Organisers were revelling in the success of the Parihaka Hoe Matariki Waka Regatta held in Whangarei at the weekend.
The annual event, hosted by the Parihaka Sports Club attracted a large number of northern clubs along with several crews from well-established Auckland clubs, Parihaka club captain James Barrett said.
"Manukau Outriggers, Cook
Island Outriggers and Te Paerangi - three big Auckland clubs all sent junior crews up to race, and they loved competing against adults.
"The biggest field we had racing in one event was 17 crews which is great. Feedback at the end of the day was good with everyone saying they will come back next year," Barrett said.
There were six main races, with the men and women's OC6 15km race the premier events on the schedule.
The 15km race started at the Onerahi boat ramp, travelled out towards Limestone Island, and then to Waikaraka and the Upper Harbour, before returning to the Onerahi foreshore.
Host club Parihaka took out the men's race, while their women's crew finished second to the successful Auckland crew from Taniwha Wahine.
"It was no disrespect to the Parihaka crew to come second to this team. They have performed nationally and are a formidable team," Barrett added.
Delighted the event was a success - from ideal conditions to competitive racing - organisers are anticipating even greater things from next year's event.
