The waka ama world is in mourning following the sudden passing of Kiwi Campbell, a celebrated paddler, coach, and board member of Waka Ama New Zealand.
A cornerstone of the Horouta Waka Hoe Club in Gisborne, Campbell was twice named Māori Sports Coach of the Year and inducted into Waka Ama New Zealand’s Hall of Fame for her immense contributions to the sport.
Tributes have poured in, highlighting her dedication to youth, her formidable strength, and the legacy she leaves behind for paddlers, coaches, and the wider community.
“There are so many ways to describe Kiwi, she was exceptional in the true sense of the word. She was formidable, her strength and determination unsurpassed and core to her success. Kiwi will leave a legacy for all those she paddled with, coached, mentored and befriended. We have all been enriched by her presence in our waka ama whānau,” Wakaama posted on Facebook.
Campbell’s death was described by family as “sudden and untimely”. A coroner was to examine her body on Saturday night, according to a report in legacy media.
She is survived by husband Bruce and sons Mairangi and Maia.
