Coaching

We are not coaches! 

We provide kayak solutions for athletes who are looking to come to the South Island for training or an event and don’t want to travel with their own boat or want to try out some boat options.

Confidence on the water is absolutely key to having a great event – building up your training and time on the water in all conditions means you will be fully prepared for the race. Realistically, anyone can cycle on a road or run over mountains, but if you really want to have a complete race, spending as much time in a kayak will be the key.

Just like learning what the road is like and what conditions are in the mountain, understanding the vastly different aspects of the river. From shallow flows, picking and choosing the right braid, corners, bends, convergences, bluffs, wave trains, eddies, currents, obstacles such as trees…and other paddlers…and then there’s the different flow levels and weather to master. Knowing when and where to put your boat is key for a great day on the water.

Our personal opinion is this is where you really want to spend your hard earned money; taking the time to try different boat options, receive the right coaching and go on guided river trips. How you paddle a river can change each time you’re on it from best lines, different flows, weather. Whatever event you are aiming for - get on the water asap and paddle, paddle, paddle.

“ Looking forward to C2C 2023. Todd and River Ninja have been extremely helpful in getting my boat sorted for the event. He is always very helpful and responsive to emails. Can’t wait to get back on the Waimak.”

“I am travelling to New Zealand for the Coast to Coast race in February 2023, Todd at River Ninja Rentals has been really helpful, sending me lots of information about different options and then reserving me a suitable kayak for the race. I can’t wait to get over there and get paddling!”

“River Ninjas were the perfect partners for my kiwi kayak racing adventure. I'd highly recommend them” 

C Smart, New Zealand