A year ago, Professor Douglas Booth was a lone stand-up paddle boarder on the waves off St Clair Beach.
He has been joined by two more paddlers who are brave enough to venture through the breakers this year.
Paddle board instructor Emma Young wants to increase the number of exponents of the sport on Dunedin waters and began a series of instruction classes on the Otago Harbour last month.
"It is the fastest growing aquatic sport in the world and the harbour is a safe place to learn the skills," Young said.
The sport started in the 1950s when the indigenous people in Hawaii were seen paddling goods between islands.
It is popular in the United States and Australia, and is developing in New Zealand.
Annabel Anderson (Auckland) is ranked third in the world for endurance events.
A stand-up paddle board is similar to surfing's long board.
"The paddle gives confidence and balance on the water," Young said.
A key to paddle boarding is balance, and the instruction course involves fitness, balance and core work before course participants are allowed on the boards.
