Motu2Motu Aitutaki is back! After a two-year hiatus, one of the most iconic paddling events has officially returned to the breathtaking waters of the world's most beautiful lagoon. Following our tremendously successful last event in 2023, which delighted visiting international athletes while delivering a substantial economic boost to Aitutaki ahead of Christmas, the occasion generated roughly $600,000 NZD in just one week across accommodations, local rentals, island spending, and domestic air travel via Air Rarotonga—a steadfast supporter of Motu2Motu year after year. We anticipate this year’s edition will drive even greater financial benefit to the island. The action kicks off on Tuesday, 1 December, featuring our thrilling 10km iron races, where club teams go head-to-head across men’s and women’s categories in both open and masters divisions. The excitement continues on Thursday, 3 December, with the signature changeover race—bringing together 12 vaka filled with diverse, mixed crews of all skill levels, ages, and backgrounds to conquer 8 legs spanning 36km across the Lagoon. The day culminates in the finale function this year being held at Resort Tava’e Aitutaki. Motu2Motu Aitutaki was intentionally created for anyone and everyone—welcoming participants of all ages, backgrounds, and degrees of paddling skills to take part in an exciting international change-over race. This year we are delighted to welcome paddlers from Canada - Toronto, Vancouver & Kelowna, Mainland USA – Arizona & Seattle, Hawaii, Tahiti, Australia – Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin, Melbourne and Perth, New Zealand and of course local paddlers from Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Special Meitaki atupaka goes out to the event organizers Poppy & Stephen Doherty, recognized for delivering and bringing back another great year of sportsmanship for 2026.