Sarah Jane Cansdale (SJ) runs outdoor company GirlsGetOutThere – which gets “girls” of all ages out on the water, learning and enjoying paddle boarding. She also offers co-ed school holiday programmes. We asked her about her favourite outdoor spots on the Shore.
Channel Magazine: Which suburb is home and what are its best outdoor spots?
SJ Cansdale: I call East Coast Bays home. Takapuna is the best spot on the Shore, with its lovely beach, sheltered bay and cafés. If I had to pick another beach it would be Cheltenham Beach for its sheltered lagoon-like bay – but beware, it can be tidal for paddlers.
CM: How do you plan to enjoy the outdoors this summer?
SJ: You'll find me down at Takapuna beach boat ramp (or at The Pumphouse) teaching SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) lessons or running the SupDogClub [owners and dogs enjoying paddle boarding together] and Kids SUP Experience Club. I also love being on the water at sunrise or sunset, floating on the water in a tranquil environment.
CM: What is an outdoor activity you’re keen to try and why?
SJ: I've just spent three weeks travelling around the South Island running SUP retreats and our Girlsbigsupdayout events. I saw an operator kayaking on the glacier at Mount Cook. I'd be stoked to SUP on the glacier lake. Looks magic! Also, Full Moon paddles would be fun!
CM: Are you a camping or a glamping sort of person?
SJ: I'm neither, as I like to have my own space. When I’m running our GirlsGetOutThereNZ SUP weekend retreats I hire a house or stay in a moderately priced hotel or AirBnB – with wifi of course! I do like the idea of popping a tent up and sleeping under the stars next to the water... so I guess "camping" if it was a remote location.
CM: Tell us who you’d most like to go on an outdoor adventure with and why?
SJ: I love taking heaps of photos and paddle boarding, so I would take my "like minded" SUP sistas. Also Rachel Gillespie who runs NZ Kiwi Experiences magazine, for her outdoor photography and retreats.
CM: What would you recommend visitors to the Shore do to make the most of outdoor living this summer?
SJ: Park up a campervan at the Takapuna camp ground. Take a walk along the rugged coastline from Takapuna to Milford, or to the French Rendezvous Café at Lake Pupuke for a croissant. Hire a SUP or join a lesson at Takapuna Beach or a midweek twilight paddle at The Lake... it’s just stunning as the sun goes down! Go to an outdoor play at historic Pumphouse Theatre. For the thrill seeker... try foiling or come on a half day paddle to the Puhoi or Riverhead taverns.
