Meet the A-Team
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Paddle Maker & River Tamer
Shane’s been immersed in watersports and paddle design for over 20 years. He’s the hands behind every custom-built paddle, carefully shaping high-performance composite materials into blades that feel like an extension of your body. Equal parts precision and passion, Shane knows what paddlers need—because he’s one himself!
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The Brains Behind the Back End
Kristin keeps Rochfort Paddles running smoother than a freshly waxed kayak hull. From managing orders and customer comms to wrangling logistics, systems, and the occasional spreadsheet tantrum—she’s the quiet powerhouse behind the brand. While Shane’s in the workshop, Kristin’s making sure everything else flows just as smoothly. Efficient, organised, and always up for a laugh, she’s the reason your custom paddle actually makes it to your door.
A Paddle Legacy
Rochfort Paddles was founded by the legendary Grant Rochfort, a top-tier slalom and rodeo paddler who built a reputation for crafting quality blades that made waves across New Zealand (and beyond). After Grant’s passing in 2002, the business was steered by industry veteran Donald Calder, before landing in the hands of Shane O’Driscoll in 2010.
Shane’s kept the spirit alive - still handcrafting every paddle, still chasing performance, and always improving where it counts. Three paddlers, one shared obsession: making paddles that feel just right.
What our clients say about us <3
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![Really nice custom built carbon paddles. Very happy with my paddle.]()
Stuart Bilby
“Really nice custom built carbon paddles. Very happy with my paddle.”
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![A man with glasses and gray hair is kayaking on a lake under a cloudy sky, wearing a life jacket with "New Zealand" written on it.]()
Andy Fuller
“Rochfort have a great range of paddles for Whitewater, sea kayak and SUP'S”
Contact us
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