Manawa Dragons — powered by heart, rhythm, and Hamilton Lake. No experience needed. Just bring your energy.
We're Manawa Dragons — a tight-knit dragon boat crew from Waikato. "Manawa" means heart in te reo Māori, and that's exactly how we paddle.
Dragon boating is a team water sport where paddlers move as one across the water. It's full of energy, laughter, and community — and we'd love you to be part of it.
We train on the stunning Hamilton Lake, Innes Common, compete at regattas across Aotearoa, and have an absolute blast doing it.
Hamilton Lake, Innes Common
Seasonal
Over 16, all fitness levels
Training, racing, and celebrating together — this is what Manawa Dragons looks like.
Find strength through challenge. Build confidence through fitness. Discover belonging through community.
That's the spirit of dragon boating.
Core, arms, back and legs — all while having a blast.
Every stroke is synchronised. Up to 20 paddlers, one rhythm, one roar.
Regattas around New Zealand — race, travel, and celebrate together.
For everyone. No experience needed. For over 16s, we'll teach you everything.
Train on the beautiful Hamilton Lake, Innes Common — one of the best spots in Aotearoa.
Fosters teamwork, inclusivity, physical and mental wellness, respect, and a true sense of belonging.
The values and goals that guide everything we do at Manawa Dragons.
To foster a vibrant, inclusive paddling community that promotes the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of individuals through the sports of dragon boating and waka ama. We are committed to cultural respect, teamwork, and personal growth, offering opportunities for all members to connect, learn, and thrive on and off the water.
To be a leading force in uniting diverse communities through paddling, empowering individuals of all backgrounds to discover strength, camaraderie, and belonging. We envision a future where the spirit of teamwork and cultural understanding flows as strongly as the waters we paddle.
Dragon boating originated in China more than 2,000 years ago and is closely linked to ancient traditions and festivals. The sport is often associated with the story of the poet and statesman Qu Yuan, whose life is commemorated during the Dragon Boat Festival. Originally used for ceremonial and cultural purposes, dragon boats later evolved into a competitive racing sport. Today, dragon boating is enjoyed worldwide, bringing people together through teamwork, fitness, and community.
Learn More
Dragon boating originates in ancient China, tied to ceremonial traditions and the Dragon Boat Festival.
The sport is linked to the story of poet and statesman Qu Yuan, whose memory is honoured each year.
Dragon boating evolves into an internationally recognised competitive sport with regattas worldwide.
Today millions paddle across the world, united by teamwork, fitness, and the love of the water.
Manawa Dragons was incorporated on 29 July 2025 and proudly operates as a registered charity. Based on the values of teamwork, inclusivity, wellbeing, and community, our club provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience the excitement and camaraderie of dragon boating.
Since our establishment, we have built a strong and supportive club culture, secured funding for essential equipment, delivered successful fundraising initiatives, volunteered within our community, and represented our club at regional regattas. More than just a sports club, Manawa Dragons is a whānau where friendships are formed, confidence grows, and every paddler has a place.
Together, we paddle stronger.
Whether you're a complete beginner or have paddled before, Manawa Dragons is the club for you. We're friendly, fun, and fiercely supportive of every paddler.
Not sure if dragon boating is for you? Come try it.
We offer up to five completely free trial sessions to be used consecutively within a month. No commitment, no gear needed.
"I came not knowing what to expect and left with a huge smile and new friends."
— Manawa Dragons paddler
Almost there! Just fill in this quick waiver form and you're all set for your free session — it only takes a minute.
Training times, weather updates, race results, and team news — it's all on our Facebook page. Give us a follow and never miss a session!
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