Welcome to the Union Rowing Club!
Established in 1864, the Union Rowing Club is one of the oldest sports clubs in Canterbury.
It has a long and distinguished history of success at national and international level, and also supports recreational and masters rowing.
President and Club Captain Welcome
“It is an honour to serve as President of the Union Rowing Club, a community built on passion, teamwork, and shared commitment to rowing since 1864.
As President, I see my responsibility as both guardian and advocate - maintaining the traditions that make Union special while guiding the club through new challenges and opportunities. This includes ensuring our facilities, fleet, and programmes meet the needs of all club members — from our juniors and Learn to Row participants to our adaptive, competitive and masters rowers.
Union’s strength lies in its diversity and camaraderie. Every member, regardless of level or ambition, contributes to the culture that makes this club unique. My goal is to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to achieve their best.
Looking ahead, we will continue to plan for the club’s future with care and optimism. Together, we can uphold the proud legacy of Union Rowing Club while shaping the next chapter of success on and off the water.”
Kirsty Mahoney, URC President
"Sport has always been a central part of my life—football, golf, cricket, rugby, running, and now rowing. After watching my children take up rowing, I was inspired to give it a go myself. Over the past seven years, I’ve enjoyed a wide range of rowing experiences, from long-distance and coastal events to regattas across New Zealand and overseas.
Union Rowing Club has a proud Masters tradition that empowers weekend warriors like me to row when life allows. We welcome rowers of all abilities, offering a supportive environment for those new to the sport while maintaining a strong racing focus for those aiming to compete at the highest level.
We’re a friendly, inclusive club with a deep sense of community. Our life members continue to play an active role, offering guidance, coaching, and encouragement to all who join.
It’s a privilege to serve as Club Captain and contribute to the legacy of Union Rowing Club."
Matt Sutherland, URC Club Captain
What We Offer
Thank you to our generous sponsors...
The Union Rowing Club really appreciates the support of the following sponsors, whose generosity has meant that we could purchase the following:
Air Rescue Trust Boat dumps
CERTClub marquee, coxed four
Lion Foundation, Coxed four
NZCT Ergometer, replacement boat slides, coxed four
NZ Racing Board, Coxless four
Pub Charity, Two coxless fours
Southern Trust, Stroke coaches
The Mainland Foundation, Coxless four