Te Ao Hākinakina with Caps | Nathan Tuuta

He is a dedicated athlete and influential figure in the Taranaki waka ama community. He has become a key paddler and tuākana within the Taranaki Outrigger Canoe Club, competing nationally at events such as the 2026 Waka Ama Sprint Nationals at Lake Karāpiro. Beyond the competitive side, he’s known for guiding others in waka ama tikanga, safety, and technique, and for representing Taranaki on the national and international stage — including serving as a co‑manager for the NZ Para Waka Ama elite squad at the IVF Va’a World Sprint Champs. His journey reflects a deep passion for the water, for teamwork, and for the whānau-centered spirit that waka ama embodies. Nau mai haere mai Nathan Tuuta