Ruahine Whio

Introducing the Whio, a kayak designed to be light, agile, and remarkably confident in moving water. Crafted by Ruahine owner Tim Taylor, an avid paddler who frequently encounters the endemic New Zealand Whio on whitewater rivers, the Whio kayak is designed to mirror the bird's characteristics.

At the heart of the Whio is a hull borrowed from our acclaimed Sea Hawk sea kayak, ensuring a stable and efficient foundation. Tailored specifically for multisport enthusiasts, the deck and accessories are thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of paddlers, whether they are novices seeking a safe experience or competitors entering events like the Coast to Coast.

Tim Taylor, the mind behind the Whio, shares his firsthand experience after a year of coaching grade 2 certs with this kayak. Faced with the challenge of keeping pace with fast race yaks while using a plastic sea kayak, Tim conceptualized the Whio as the solution. His vision was clear—create an ultra-stable kayak capable of performing rescues, yet fast enough to match the speed of racing enthusiasts. After months of testing, Tim is thrilled to bring the Whio to the public, confident that it strikes the perfect balance of stability and speed.

Whether you're navigating the adrenaline-pumping rapids of remote rivers or participating in a multisport event like the Coast to Coast, the Whio Multisport Kayak is your reliable companion. Experience the joy of paddling with confidence, knowing that the Whio is designed to excel in diverse water conditions. Join the ranks of enthusiasts who are choosing the Whio for its stability, agility, and competitive edge. Get ready to make waves and leave a mark on the water with the Whio Multisport Kayak—it's time to conquer the rivers with style and speed!

Price

$4,649

Package

$6,299

Ability Level

Beginner

Paddler Size

60-130 kg and up to 6'6" tall

Width

620 millimetres

Length

5.2 metres