Member Benefits
Whitewater New Zealand serves as a collective voice for the paddle sports community. By becoming a member, you directly support our vital advocacy work. Your membership fee funds essential projects and amplifies our impact in protecting river access, preserving waterways, and promoting safe enjoyment of New Zealand’s rivers. The Whitewater NZ board and all operations are run entirely by passionate volunteers dedicated to the paddling community.
Beyond the satisfaction of supporting river conservation and access, membership comes with tangible benefits. Several partner organisations offer exclusive discounts to Whitewater NZ members—simply present your digital membership card at participating retailers. Discount details vary by partner and are provided at their discretion.
Further benefits
Alongside WWNZ members getting sweet benefits from our supporting organisations, some further benefits are listed below
FMC Affiliation
“Whitewater New Zealand has reaffiliated with Federated Mountain Clubs of NZ, strengthening our collective voice on conservation and river management issues. This partnership extends valuable benefits to our members!”
WWNZ has affiliated its Board members and the president/captain of each WWNZ-affiliated club. These individuals receive FMC discount cards and Backcountry magazines directly from Whitewater New Zealand. The affiliation offers access to over 50 discounts, including a significant 30% off DOC annual hut passes.
All other WWNZ members can now access the FMC D2U service for just $20 per year (compared to the standard $45 individual rate). This provides an FMC discount card and annual subscription to Backcountry magazine delivered straight to your door: Join FMC Benefits
Additionally, all WWNZ members are eligible for expedition scholarships. WWNZ can also apply for funding through the FMC training grant and purchase FMC pack liners and copies of “Safety in the Mountains” at FMC Sales.
Mangahao Fund
Active members of Whitewater New Zealand and its affiliated clubs can apply to the Mangahao Fund Committee for project funding. Eligible projects typically benefit the Lower North Island paddling community or have national significance to the whitewater community.
Photo Competitions
Whitewater New Zealand hosts an annual photo competition exclusively for members, featuring cash prizes for winners selected through our social media channels. Winning photographs are then submitted to the prestigious FMC photo competition.
The FMC competition offers $3,000-$6,000 worth of prizes, where our top submissions compete with photography from the other 98 FMC-affiliated clubs. Club entries close September 15th annually.
Giveaways
Whitewater New Zealand regularly partners with paddle sports industry companies to provide members with opportunities to win quality gear, keeping you safe and stylish on the awa.
To have a chance of winning these exclusive membership raffles, ensure your membership is current and follow our social media channels for announcements.