The 2026 canoe slalom season is officially underway following a successful weekend of racing at the Mangahao Open and New Zealand Open in Shannon.

Over 50 athletes from around the country took on the natural water course at Mangahao Whitewater Park — from first-time racers through to seasoned masters athletes — creating an exciting and inclusive start to the season.

Despite wet and windy conditions during the official training days, the weather turned it on for race weekend, setting the stage for high-quality racing and close finals. With only the top 12 progressing to finals, there were plenty of nerves and big performances as athletes chased early season results.

The start line featured an impressive mix of experience, including four New Zealand Olympians: Donald Johnstone, Mike Dawson, five-time Olympian Luuka Jones, and current Olympic Kayak Cross champion Finn Butcher.

A special moment came with the return of Martina Wegman, former Dutch Olympian and now eligible to race for New Zealand in 2026, who claimed a podium finishes in her first race back after becoming a mum in 2025.

The New Zealand Open was also an International Canoe Federation World Ranking Race, welcoming athletes from Australia and Canada and giving competitors the chance to earn valuable ranking points for the 2026 season.

A huge thank you to Pelorus Trust for their support, and to the Environmental Whitewater Park Trust for maintaining this outstanding natural venue.

Next stop: Auckland, as athletes head north for the Kayak Cross Selection Race over Auckland Anniversary Weekend and Oceania Championships 31 Jan to 2 Feb.

Article added: Thursday 22 January 2026