CRNZ recognises the need to have great coaches delivering a high standard of coaching across the whole system and the importance of coaches in promoting access to safe and enjoyable paddling experiences.

The CRNZ Coach Development Framework is designed to enable coaches at all levels to access resources and development opportunities to continuously enhance their knowledge, skills and understanding, so that paddlers at all levels, whether beginner, high performance or recreational, are able to enjoy positive paddling experiences and achieve their individual aspirations.

This framework aligns coaches with specific paddling communities, from beginner level paddlers all the way up through the pathway to high performance paddlers.

Formal development and coaching awards/qualifications ensure that all CRNZ coaches have an understanding of the key areas of focus in their paddling community and can work safely and competently with paddlers at a given level.

Further details of the Upcoming Coach Development Opportunities and  CRNZ Coach Awards are outlined below.

To download the full PDF on CRNZ Coach Development click here. For more information please contact Aaron Osborne: Aaron.Osborne@canoeracing.org.nz

CRNZ Sports & Recognition Awards 

The Canoe Racing New Zealand Sports and Recognition Awards recognise annual and long-term excellence in performance, coaching, service and contribution to the sport.

This is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate of the outstanding achievements and the valuable contributions made by Canoe Racing NZ 

club members, both domestically and internationally.

The following Awards are presented annually:

Female Canoe Sprint Athlete of the Year

Male Canoe Sprint Athlete of the Year

Ocean Ski Athlete of the Year

Marathon Athlete of the Year

Junior (18&U) Athlete of the Year

23&U Athlete of the Paddler 

Masters Athlete of the Year

Team of the Year

Coach of the Year

Official of the Year

Volunteer of the Year 

Club of the Year

Paddler.nz Spirit of Paddling Award

Recognition Awards

Outstanding Service Award

Excellence Awards


The qualifying period is from 1 October the previous year to 30 September or current year.

AWARDS INFORMATION – Click here for full information including awards criteria, nomination and eligibility information.