Kayak Session:You and your husband, Phil, are unofficially considered the kayakers to know on the South Island of New Zealand's West Coast. Did you grow up there?
Rata Lovell-Smith: No, I grew up on the West Coast of the North Island, in Taranaki. Taranaki is known for its heavy waves and oil and gas exploration. The town's catchphrase is Taranaki Hardcore (THC for short).
KS: Taranaki Hardcore… It sounds like a lot to live up to—and a good life motto?
RLS: My parents always inspired us to chase what we wanted and taught us that a life rich in soul was more important than how much money you had in the bank. Growing up, my twin sister and I had a twinkle in our eyes. I was cheeky and ready to bend the rules to have more fun, which resulted in a few cop rides home! We threw a fair few parties, and properly. The highlight of our school career was when we threw a party with a controversial theme, and our principal —in front of 1500 girls—said we were sick and twisted.
KS: How did you end up in Hokitika?
RLS: In my final couple of years of school, I had an opportunity to train as an outdoor instructor at a local outdoor center. Being outside was this totally different perspective than the teenage party scene, but it gave me the same buzz. I had tried kayaking and wanted to do more, but my worldview on the sport was so small. I knew nothing about it other than it was fucking fun! Coming to the end of high school, I didn't think I was smart enough to go to university and knew I'd continue the party drug scene if I stayed home. Amy Tipling told me to study outdoor education at Tai Poutini Polytechnic. Thanks, Amy!
KS: What was it about kayaking that clicked with you?
I don't remember, but I do remember following Dave Richie on a move and being like, “Holy shit, that felt cool!” Kayaking gave me the same buzz I got being a little shit back in the Naki, but what held my attention was Keith the Great and Zak Shaw's stories of big adventures to these wild places. That totally inspired me. When I arrived on the Westcoast of the South Island to do this course, I was so fired up. I'dsport was about, but I knew I wanted to get good at it.
