Try Learn Explore is a safe and fun way to start paddling.

Introducing new paddlers to fundamental paddling knowledge and skills and with a strong focus on building water safety skills and confidence, Try Learn Explore is delivered by accredited clubs & paddling providers in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Try Learn Explore is a structured framework that consists of three progressive levels to inspire a life-long love of paddling:

Try Paddling

This is your introduction to paddling of a craft. It gives the paddler the basic essential information and skills needed to have a go paddling.

Learn Paddling

The Learn program develops paddlers’ skills to effectively paddle their craft. The program educates participants in water safety and helps develop the participants water confidence.

Explore Paddling

This programme encourages paddlers to experience different types of paddling crafts, and/or further develop their skills is specific craft of choice.
eg. Explore Ocean ski, Explore Flatwater/Sprint, Explore Canoe Slalom.

Who is Try Learn Explore for?

Try Learn Explore is an entry point to paddling for participants of all ages. Providers will typically deliver TLE tailored to the following groups:

Young paddlers – 10-13 years old
Youth paddlers 14-17 years old
Adults 18+ year old

Participants should be able to swim 50metres wearing a lifejacket to take part in Try Learn Explore.

Why Try Learn Explore?

Try Learn Explore has been developed by Canoe Racing New Zealand based on the latest sport and education research to ensure new paddlers receive high quality learning experiences, develop confidence, wellbeing and skills and, most importantly, have fun!

Try Learn Explore providers are accredited by Canoe Racing NZ so participants can rest assured that they will enjoy positive early paddling experiences, whatever their needs or motivations.

Lead coaches must have achieved the Try Learn Explore Coach Award, meaning they have undergone training and demonstrated they possess the knowledge and ability to safely and effectively deliver Try Learn Explore.
Providers must have approved Safety Management plans and procedures to ensure all TLE activities comply with the HSWA 2015.