From the workshop in Raglan to paddlers around the world, Tai Paddles is built on passion, craft, and a deep love for waka ama. What started as one person shaping paddles by hand has grown into one of Aotearoa’s leading waka ama and outrigger canoe paddle makers. Today, Tai Paddles is known for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern performance design, producing paddles that feel as good as they look.
Our Roots in Waka Ama
Tai Paddles was founded in 2006 by Conan Herbert and Lana in the coastal town of Raglan, New Zealand.
Conan’s journey: Originally from Pawarenga in the Hokianga, Conan has been immersed in waka ama his whole life. His paddle-making story began as a teenager, working school holidays at the Moananui workshop in Tutukaka for the Kjeldsen whānau. After leaving school, he kept building paddles at Moananui before studying systems engineering at Massey University, where his product design and technical knowledge took shape.
Lana’s journey: Raised in Raglan, Lana discovered waka ama in the mid-1990s when Hoturoa and Kim Barclay Kerr began coaching a group of local Raglan girls. Her love for the sport and strong ties to the paddling community have shaped Tai Paddles from the beginning.
Together, Conan and Lana built Tai Paddles on the belief that paddles should carry both tradition and innovation — honouring Māori heritage while embracing new technologies.
Our Commitment
At Tai Paddles, our goal is simple: to make the best paddles possible and ensure every customer — from first-time paddler to world champion — feels confident and connected every time they’re on the water.
We do this by:
Using quality materials that balance strength, weight, and performance
Designing paddles that reflect both modern innovation and Māori heritage
Supporting the outrigger canoe community locally and internationally
Looking Ahead
With paddlers now using Tai Paddles across the world, our commitment remains the same: to craft paddles that honour the sport, the culture, and the community. From Hiku, Broadbill, Kingfish, and Uru designs, every blade carries the same dedication that began in Raglan.
Whether you’re lining up at your first regatta or preparing for the World Sprint Championships, Tai Paddles is here to help you perform at your best.