Kuala lumpur: The two-day 2026 New Zealand National Dragon Boat Championships concluded at scenic Lake Karapiro. As one of the country’s largest dragon boat events, the championships brought together around 45 teams and approximately 1,200 athletes from across the country, competing in the 200 m and 500 m sprint races, as well as the 2,000 m turn race.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the steady beat of drums echoed across the course as paddles flashed through the water, with athletes showcasing the speed and intensity of dragon boat racing. During the event, a commemorative flower ceremony was held, with members of the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) holding pink carnations to raise awareness of breast cancer prevention and honor life, adding a human touch to the event.