Shayne Baxter first to Stand Up Paddle Cook Strait Channel

The Cook Strait divides the North and South islands of Aotearoa New Zealand and is known as one of the most dangerous water passages in the world. Changeable weather mixed with tidal flow in the strait being almost exactly out of phase, so high water on one side meets low on the other, creating surges and strong currents.

Leaving Christchurch at 2am on Monday morning the 23rd of August, National Circuit Stand Up Paddle Champion Shayne Baxter attempting the crossing. Reaching Waikawa marina in Picton at 7.30am, Shayne then rang the coast guard and wanted to make sure he went through the right channels.
Accompanied by Nick Mooney on PWC (Jet Ski) to monitor Shayne and having the ski for emergencies, they set off at 9am. Leaving the South Island the aim was to reach the North Island by midday, before the wind was forecast to change.

Joined by Toroa (albatross) and Aihe (dolphins) along the way was quite unique and special for Shayne, after year’s of SUP surfing and long distance training he finally reached the North Islands west coast at 12:36pm Claiming the first ever Stand Up Paddle crossing of the strait. "I didn’t do this to beat my own chest! as other world renown paddlers have paddled over twice the distance. I believe in this sport. It was aimed as performance based training and to promote the sport of Stand Up Paddle here in Te Wai Pounamu (South Island) & Te Ika a Maui (North Island) of Aotearoa (New Zealand)." said Shayne.

Shayne is currently trying to gain sponsorship for the chance to compete within the Stand Up World Tour, which is already taking great flight. Shayne’s dedication towards SUP (Stand Up Paddle) has come from an internal desire which exceeds his own perceptions of what is possible. He feels more focused than ever and committed to pursuing a future with endless possibilities and no boundaries within this sport.

Uploaded 1 year, 5 months ago.