Built to handle New Zealand conditions
For years, New Zealand rowers and coaches have had to make do with lighting solutions that were never designed for rowing.
Modified bicycle lights, head torches, traffic management lights and a range of other improvised systems have become the norm. While they may sometimes get the job done, none were built specifically for the unique demands of daily training on the water.
Add fresh and salt water, early morning starts, changing weather conditions and the knocks that come with taking rowing boats on and off the water, and it's easy to see why these solutions often fall short.
After searching for a purpose-built option and finding very little available in New Zealand, we decided it was time to create one ourselves.
Designed by New Zealand Rowing Coaches
The idea began with two Kiwi rowing coaches asking a simple question:
"How do we solve the bow light problem?"
The answer wasn't to modify a product not designed for use in salt water. Instead, the coaches looked to proven waterproof technology used in the commercial fishing industry and adapted it specifically for rowing.
After months of research, testing, valuable feedback from fellow coaches, and real-world trials with prototype units, we're proud to introduce a rowing bow light that's purpose-built for New Zealand rowers.
"We have been using the bow lights throughout winter and have been really impressed. They're brighter, more reliable, and much easier to use than others we have tried. We have even had situations where other bow lights would have been knocked off or lost, but these stayed securely attached, so our training wasn't interrupted." - Aaron Maxwell, Head Coach Auckland Grammar School
100% Waterproof
Rated waterproof to a depth of 50 metres, the bow light uses a magnetic on/off switch and dual silicone sealing system to keep water completely out of the battery compartment.
Unlike lights that require the housing to be twisted open and closed—allowing moisture to work its way inside over time—a simple flick of the magnetic switch turns the light on or off while maintaining a watertight seal.
The sealed design also makes it ideal for both fresh and salt water, with no exposed switching or metal components that are prone to corrosion.
It Floats
Anyone who's rowed long enough knows that equipment occasionally ends up in the water.
Rather than watching your bow light disappear to the bottom of the lake, we've designed the holder using lightweight waterproof materials and an internal honeycomb structure, allowing it to float for easy retrieval if it's accidentally knocked off the boat.
High visibility when it matters most
The high-performance LED flashes every two seconds and has a visibility rating of up to 4 kilometres, helping ensure your crew can be seen in low-light conditions.
A built-in light sensor automatically switches the unit off once daylight arrives, conserving battery life and making operation completely hassle-free.
Designed to fit your rowing boat
The mounting system has been designed specifically to fit standard rowing bow card holders used by most boat manufacturers.
If your boat has a different setup, Aotearoa Boat Company is happy to help you find a suitable solution. We can also supply replacement bow card holders for just $5 (including GST) where required.
For added security, we recommend mounting the light using a stainless steel M5 × 60 mm bolt, two washers and a wing nut. These are available separately.
Make it your own
Our standard bow light is supplied in high-visibility orange/red and features Aotearoa Boat Company's branding.
Want something that matches your club or school's colours? We can customise the light holder in your team colours and add your club, school or organisation's name for a small additional cost.
Available in August 2026
Our first production run has already been well received, with units now being used by rowers in Auckland.
The next production batch is expected in August, and we're now accepting pre-orders.
If you're looking for a reliable, fit-for-purpose rowing bow light that's been designed specifically for New Zealand conditions, we'd love to hear from you.
Contact us today to secure your pre-order or find out more about customisation options.
