Welcome to Fire In Ice
Waka Ama Club
Dunedin's only Waka Ama club.
Nestled in the stunning coastal landscape of Otago, our Waka Ama club harnesses the spirit of Outrigger canoeing in the unique waters of Ōtepoti. The powerful currents of Otago Harbour and the dramatic coastline offer an extraordinary paddling environment that challenges and inspires.
We’re more than a paddling club – we’re a community connected by the ocean, committed to building skills in traditional and competitive waka ama and embracing the principles of whanaungatanga and kaitiakitanga
Whether you’re seeking fitness, connection, or a deep relationship with the Moana, our club welcomes paddlers of all levels to experience the magic of waka ama in the southern seas
Club Training Sessions
Monday
PM
05:00 PM
Tuesday
PM
05:30 PM
Wednesday
PM
05:00 PM
Thursday
PM
05:00 PM
Friday
No Session
Saturday
AM
08:00 AM
PM
05:00 PM
Sunday
AM
8:30 AM
Upcoming Events
2025 Long Distance Nationals – Porirua
Porirua
Organizer
Hoe Tonga Pacifica Waka Ama Association
Dates
Thu 24th Apr - Sun 27th Apr 2025
Details
Long Distance Nationals 2025 Hoe Tonga Pacifica Waka Ama Association alongside Waka Ama New Zealand, are proud to host the 2025 Waka Ama Long Distance...
IceBreaker Challenge 2025 (Subject to Sanctioning)
Dunedin
Organizer
Fire in Ice Outrigger Canoe Club Inc
Dates
Sat 31st May - Sun 1st Jun 2025
Details
Contact Details Name: Kazz McDonald Email: icebreaker.fireinice@gmail.com Description He mihi mahana ki a koutou, ngā Kaihoe ō te Waipounamu. Nau mai haere mai ki te Waka...
Organizer
Waka Ama NZ
Dates
Wed 13th Aug - Fri 22nd Aug 2025
Details
Contact Details Email: worlds@wakaama.co.nz Online Entries Entries Close: Tue, 1st Apr 2025 at 11:59pm Roster Close: Fri, 18th Apr 2025 at 11:59pm View Entries by Club...
Why give Waka ama a go?
Waka ama isn’t just about the physical effort required to paddle the waka. It’s about so much more!
Manaakitanga – reciprocity and inclusivity.
Hauora – wellbeing.
Tu Tanagata – accountability, respect, integrity and passion.
Whanaungatanga – belonging, identity and collective strength.
What our members are saying about Fire In Ice Waka Ama Club.
“Ōtepoti Fire In Ice Waka Ama is a true South Island paddling treasure! The club captures the raw beauty of Dunedin’s dramatic coastline, offering an authentic connection to the Moana” Our sessions blend the thrill of navigating Otago Harbour’s challenging waters with a warm, inclusive community spirit. Whether battling the southerly winds or enjoying calm summer paddles, this club transforms every outing into an unforgettable adventure. Our steerers all have a deep knowledge of local conditions and commitment to both skill development and environmental respect which makes this more than just a paddling club – it’s a gateway to experiencing the true essence of waka ama in the deep south!
John D.
Club Member
“I’ve paddled with many clubs, but Fire In Ice Waka Ama is truly special” The instructors embody the spirit of kaitiakitanga, sharing deep knowledge of Otago’s marine environment with genuine passion. Our sessions along the stunning Otago Harbour aren’t just about paddling – they’re about connecting with the moana, understanding its rhythms, and building a community that respects our incredible southern landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious newcomer, this club offers an authentic waka ama experience that goes far beyond just being on the water.”
Sarah L.
Club Member
“As a competitive paddler, finding a club that not only supports my training but also fosters a sense of community has always been a priority” I can confidently say that Fire In Ice Waka Ama exceeds expectations on both fronts. The coaches here are top-notch and have helped me improve my skills significantly. The camaraderie among members is great; I’ve made lifelong friends through this club. Whether you’re looking to compete at a high level or simply enjoy the sport recreationally, Fire In Ice is the place to be.
Michael R.
Club Member
How do I join?
If you would like to join the Fire In Ice Waka Ama club click the JOIN FIRE IN ICE button below. You will be able to select a membership.
We have five specific memberships to choose from.
Individual membership (Affiliated) $100
Individual (Non-Affiliated) $85
Whanau (Family) Membership Includes 2 Adults, 2 Children (U19, incl Affiliation Fee to WANZ) $200
Rangatahi Membership (Between the ages 10-19) $30
Tamariki (9 and Under) $20
All memberships run from 1st of November to the 31st of October following year
All club memberships are paid online. Click JOIN FIRE IN ICE and you will be directed to make an online payment. Please email if you have any questions.
Once you have signed up online you will be notified and placed on our club database to begin receiving regular club emails. We are excited to have you onboard
We have an active Members Facebook page, Just search Fire In Ice Members on Facebook and request access.
Māori culture is deeply embedded within our sport.
From the language to the protocols followed, we help our members gain a deeper understanding of Te ao Māori.
Whanaungatanga
Forming and maintaining relationships
Manaakitanga
Generosity and caring for others
Kaitiakitanga
Guardianship of the environment
FAQs
Check Below For Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Owheo Paddle Centre 35 Magnet Street
Currently, our training schedule is as follows
Monday 5:00 pm -6:30 pm
Tuesday 5:30 pm -7:00 pm
Wednesday 5:00 pm -6:30 pm
Thursday 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday 8:30am – 10:00 am
Sunday 8:30am – 10:00 am
Paddlers are requested to arrive approx. 15-20 minutes before each session to assist in the preparation of the waka and equipment for training.
Similarly, the training session is not complete until all waka and equipment have been washed down and returned to their storage space.
- Tshirt/Rash Shirt Board shorts
- Shoes / Thongs / Crocs
- Suncream
- Hat /cap/beanie
- Sunglasses
- Drink bottle (preferably with water in it)
- A change of clothes and a towel might be required post-training.
- The waka
- Life Jackets
- Paddle (hoe)
- Changing and shower facilities
On the first Sunday of every month, at 8:30 am we run a Give it a Go day for members to try.
At Fire In Ice OCC, we welcome EVERYONE to come along and have a go at the sport that we are so passionate about. None of us came into the Club as an expert, we all had to learn how to hold onto a paddle (hoe), the correct usage of a paddle (hoe) and how to get better at paddling. We know what it’s like to be the “new kid on the block” so we will be very understanding and patient with you as you start your waka experience.
Above all, we want this to be a fun experience for you.
Your safety is our prime concern, so if at any time you do not feel safe please let the steerer know so that they can address your concerns, after all, we are here to make sure you have fun, exercise and enjoy yourself.
Note: You MUST be able to swim at least 50 metres
Email us at fireinice@gmail.com and we can arrange for you to join us on one of our training days.
