World Rowing Championships 2010

In 2010 Lake Karapiro, New Zealand, will become one of the few places to host the World Rowing Championships for a second time. If 1978 is anything to go by, visitors are in for an exciting regatta on one of the world’s most picturesque rowing venues. The event will take place from 29 October - 7 November, 2010 and is expected to attract tens of thousands of cheering spectators.

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A championship and country not to be missed

The 1978 World Rowing Championships was considered one of the most memorable in the event’s history - and New Zealand is determined to put on an even better competition next time around.

Experience water-sports beauty Lake Karapiro

In 2006 New Zealand secured the rights to hold the 39th World Rowing Championship in Karapiro

Situated on the Waikato River, Lake Karapiro is a premier venue for rowing, dragon boat racing, hydroplanes and water skiing.

Home to a world-class, eight-lane rowing course, and more than 15 kilometres of idyllic training water, Lake Karapiro has been the training ground for many of New Zealand's top rowers, including Rob and Sonia Waddell, and Olympic gold medalists Caroline and Georgina Evers-Swindell.

The lake is part of a controlled hydro scheme that provides consistent water levels year round at 68 metres above sea level, and the 2000 metre course presents fair conditions that meet International Rowing Federation requirements.

Lake Karapiro is in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, about 30 minutes drive from the city of Hamilton. Visitors are likely to fly into Auckland International Airport, the destination of many international airlines and only two hours drive from Karapiro.

Before and after activities

When the World Rowing Championships 2010 is over, or before it begins, there is plenty to do in the Waikato region. Hamilton itself is a thriving centre of education and research, culture and cafes, situated on the banks of the Waikato River. Known for its beautiful parks and gardens by day, it also offers wonderful shopping and a vibrant night life of restaurants and night clubs.

Travelling slightly further afield, you’ll be struck by the rich scenery, from lush green farmland and rolling hills to native bush, and exceptional surf on both the west and east coasts. Take part in a number of adrenalin-filled activities, such as white water rafting, caving, mountain biking and skiing, or enjoy the more gentle pursuits of a game of golf or a scenic bush walk.

Getting out on the water yourself

In 1978, when the World Rowing Championships last visited New Zealand, more than 40,000 spectators watched the event unfold over a busy week of rowing

In 1978 more than 40,000 spectators watched the event unfold over a busy week of rowing

Exploring New Zealand’s magnificent waters by paddle power is pure enjoyment. Our most famous fresh water canoeing experience involves the Whanganui River, the longest navigable waterway in the country. Safaris down the river can take anywhere between one and five days. There are numerous rapids, but even beginner paddlers can navigate the river safely.

On Lake Taupo you can paddle to see Maori rock carvings; Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau deliver you into the heart of national park wilderness; and steaming geothermal activity will keep you enthralled around Rotorua’s many crater lakes.

In the North Island you can embark on a sea kayaking safari around the Bay of Islands, Waiheke Island or Wellington harbour. Paddling around a marine reserve, such as Goat Island, is always fun - beach your kayak and go for a snorkel.
In the South Island, meander through the Marlborough Sounds where waters are sheltered and people are few; follow the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park and hope for encounters with seals, dolphins and orca; get a sea level view of a fiord; or find your way around Okarito Lagoon, where you’ll see all kinds of wading birds.

Qualmark promises you a sure thing

As you plan your rowing experience, look for the Qualmark© logo - it’s your guarantee that accommodation, activities, services and transport have been independently quality assessed.