2023 Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge

The 2023 Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge– the opening round of the 2023-24 Darcy Price NZ Ocean Ski Series – will take place on Saturday 2nd September.

Formerly the Poor Knights Crossing, the Tawhiti Rahi Coastal Challenge is an ~30km open ocean downwind paddling event for surf ski, waka ama and SUP competitors, along the spectacular Northland Coast.

This is regarded as one of the most challenging but iconic events on the ocean racing calendar in Aotearoa.

Official event powhiri and safety briefing is at Schnappa Rock Restaurant and Cafe in Tutukaka on Friday Sept 1 at 8pm. All paddlers are required to attend this briefing.
Please also note that Sunday Sept 3 is set aside as a lay day in case conditions are unsuitable on Saturday

This is a challenging open ocean distance event. All competitors must be competent in hazardous open ocean conditions. You may be asked to provide evidence of your competence prior to your race entry being accepted.

Note race distance my vary depending on conditions but prepare for a 30km distance race. On Race day you will be transported by coachline to the start line and your equipment will be trailered.

Course maps (course direction is determined by wind and conditions on race day)