The new and exciting sport of Stand-Up Paddleboarding is enjoying an explosion of interest around the world. It is extremely simple. You stand on a large surfboard-shaped hull, and use a single-bladed paddle to propel yourself forward. The boards are highly stable – anyone from age 5 to 75 can enjoy this sport, without falling off or getting wet. It’s the ideal way to explore the creeks, bays and inlets Canterbury, as there is almost nowhere that paddleboards cannot go. All they need is a few inches of water.
It is more than just a method of propulsion, though. Stand-up-paddling is actually extremely good exercise, particularly for the all-important ‘core’ area of the stomach and lower back. (It has proven therapeutic benefits for anyone with balance problems, such as those recovering from injury or surgery.). It’s environmentally friendly, and the perfect way to get up close and personal with mother nature. From the standing position you have better views into the water, and also of the surrounding landscapes and seascapes. The paddleboards and paddles are light and easily transported and manoeuvred on land, and there is no requirement for wetsuits or foul-weather gear – unless you’re playing in the waves or doing tricks on them, you don’t ever need to fall in.
Stand Up Paddleboarding Etiquette
Taking to the water on a stand up paddle board needs to be done with the utmost respect for both nature and your fellow water users. Red Air have put together the following Red Code, which we totally subscribe to, and wholeheartedly recommend that all NZ SUP riders should follow. It’s a simple and sensible set of guidelines that should go a long way to keeping you safe and making sure you can coexist in harmony with your fellow water users.
General Guidelines
- Learn the basics in flat, calm water – your self esteem will thank you
- Check the weather – Always check the forecast before heading out on the water.
- Avoid offshore winds – they will blow you far from home
- Check the tides – Do you know how the currents and tides effect your location?
- Don’t paddle alone – stay safe and paddle with a friend
- Don’t use the board in surf until you are confident
