Open water rowing " means sculling in areas where you would not go in a flat water racing skiff; harbours; estuaries; seas. The open water boats are designed with the particular challenges of this environment in mind.

The most popular boat is the MAAS Aero or the MAAs 24. The Thompson Wherry is particularly suited to rough river conditions. The Whanganui River Institue has also bought two chinese made, German-designed open water boats, capable of coastal rowing, one double and one quad. They have been used in cross-Taupo events, too.

The downriver estuary area is particularly suited to open water rowing.

Anyone doing the open water programme must go through the WRI Trust safety programme first. Lifejackets are compulsory in sea conditions.

In addition the NZ Open Water Rowing Association, to which the WRI Trust is affiliated runs trips to open water getaways and places of interest. These are very much recreational with wine and good food essential components.

The WRI is based in the former Calliope building. It is next door to UBC and features a slipway for easy launching.

For more information contact Rod Trott at rod.trott@ers.dol.govt.nz