Lake Hood, Ashburton

Many of the current NZDBA board had not previously had the opportunity to visit the Lake Hood, Ashburton venue for the 2010 dragon boat Nationals. So the October-09 board meeting was held en route to the venue, and continued with the board viewing the lake and walking over the site, viewing various options such as the placement of lanes, start/finish lines, marquee positioning, vendors, marshalling etc.

The lake is a brilliant venue, and board chair Shane Petly was so impressed he declared the lake of such a high standard that it was a venue fit enough to host a world event. That sentiment in itself will give NZDBA confidence to bid for such a world event in the future.

The board meeting continued in the very tranquil surroundings of the Lake House restaurant at Lake Hood (the possible venue for the breast cancer ladies’ breakfast).

Logistics - travel

We have put together some good deals on behalf of dragon boaters to help their travel plans for the Nationals.

One of these is for a van rental from Jucy rentals, for a Toyota Previa van (or similar type people mover) for a three-day hire at $59 per day. This deal is through Jucy in Christchurch (reservation number is 0800 399 736). Just phone and book your vehicle, tell the reservations person that it is the "dragon boats Nationals" deal at $59 per day.

You can also hire a car on the same dragon boat deal at a rate of $22 per day (remember it is for a high mileage car, so not necessarily a late model, but at that price who would complain). The offer is open nationwide at any time (not just for Nationals) and is for anyone associated with dragon boating.

Accommodation

Many teams book accommodation very early in Ashburton, with some of the newer motels filling up fast. A good place to also try would be the Ashburton Hotel, as they have about 60 rooms available. This
is probably the venue for the after party [check the Race PAck!], so a short stagger from the party back to your bed for the night. If you have any queries about the area, the Ashburton Tourism Council is a good fountain of local knowledge.