Auckland’s two breast cancer dragon boat teams are joining forces to take on the world at the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Dragon Boat Festival in France August 2026. While fierce competitors on the water during the NZ dragon boating season, both the Pink Dragons and Busting With Life are great mates off the water. With over 4,500 paddlers (over 150 teams) and 550 supporters from 25 countries, this year’s IBCPC is set to have the biggest attendance for first time hosts France. The regatta will take place on the shores of Lac du Bourget (France’s largest natural glacial lake) in the picturesque town of Aux-lex-Bains.
We have named out team Wāhine Toa, which when translated literally, means Warrior Women. Originally the words described Māori women who fought alongside men in battle. This didn't happen often as women were deemed too important for war as they were "te whare tangata" - the house of all people (ie. only they could bear children). In saying that however there were a number of women who did go into battle and they were renowned warriors - hence the term wāhine toa. More recently the name has become synonymous with strong female leaders and empowering women.
Dragon boating offers profound physical, psychological, and social benefits for breast cancer survivors, acting as a powerful tool for post-treatment rehabilitation and emotional healing. Once discouraged due to outdated fears of lymphoedema, this high-energy sport safely rebuilds upper-body strength, restores shoulder mobility, and reduces cancer-related fatigue. By engaging in repetitive, progressive paddling, survivors can confidently reclaim their physical health and shift their focus from illness to athleticism and body appreciation.
Beyond the physical gains, the sport acts as a vital antidote to the isolation often felt after active cancer treatments. Being part of a 20-paddler crew fosters immediate camaraderie and a deep, shared understanding among teammates with similar medical histories. Supported by global networks like the International Breast Cancer Paddlers' Commission (IBCPC), this unique community empowers survivors to boost their self-esteem, improve their overall quality of life, and celebrate their collective resilience on the water.
If you are interested in joining a breast cancer dragon boating crew, get in touch (wahinetoa2026@gmail.com) and we can pass on the contact details.
Having won the battle of fighting breast cancer, and finding the fun and excitement and camaraderie of the sport of dragon boating, the women of Wāhine Toa are now excited to bring a new battle to Aix-le-Bains in August 2026 for the IBCPC Participatory Festival.
Jules Meredith
30 June 2026
