Our Story
Rowing Together, Since 1904
The Whangārei Rowing Club has been part of Northland’s sporting landscape for over a century. Founded around 1904, the original club was located on the Bluff of the Whangārei Town Basin until the 1960s. Today, our clubhouse sits proudly at 68 Riverside Drive on the banks of the Hātea River, directly across from the iconic Waka sculpture and alongside the city’s popular Loop Walkway.
As New Zealand’s northernmost rowing club, we embrace Te Tai Tokerau’s reputation for being friendly, welcoming, and inclusive. We are proud kaitiaki of a sport that brings together generations of Northlanders, united by a shared love for the water and the thrill of competition.
A Legacy of Achievement
Rowing in Aotearoa is currently experiencing unprecedented success on both domestic and international stages, and Whangārei Rowing Club has played its part. Our members have claimed national titles at secondary school, club, and masters levels, with several going on to represent New Zealand. In the most recent season alone, our rowers have earned championship titles and podium finishes across a range of events.
With the advantage of the “Winterless North,” our members are fortunate to train year-round on the beautiful Whangārei Harbour. This consistent access to the water helps to build strong, resilient athletes, and a tight-knit community that supports each other both on and off the water.
Rowing for Life
With around 60–70 active members, we are home to a diverse and growing community of junior, club-level, and masters rowers aged from 13 to 78 years. Rowing is a sport that builds discipline, strength, and connection, and we welcome people of all backgrounds who are keen to learn, compete, and grow.
We’re always looking for:
Whether you’re curious about the sport or returning after time away, we invite you to get in touch.
Thinking of joining us? Here’s what you’ll need:
The ability to swim 50 metres
A reasonable level of fitness
A willingness to learn and a positive attitude
Comfort in small boats
Each year, we welcome a small group of novice rowers during our winter training period (April–September), preparing them to compete from October onward.
Our membership spans across:
Junior Rowers (Years 9–13)
Club Rowers (Late teens to adults)
Masters Rowers (Aged 27–85+)
Coxswains and Coaches play a vital role in the life of our club. These positions offer fantastic opportunities for leadership, personal growth, and contribution to the team’s success.
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