'Finn-omenal performance' - Central Otago paddler advances in Paris

It's being called a Finn-omenal performance and with it Central Otago paddler Finn Butcher is into the kayak cross quarter finals at the Paris Olympics.

The paddling sport is making its debut at the Olympics, and fellow Kiwi competitor Luuka Jones has qualified for her quarter final alongside Mr Butcher.

The event sees kayakers in heats of four fighting their way down a slalom course, bumping each other out of the way as they go.

Paddlers must also do a rollover, which involves flipping their boat over and submerging themselves under the water, at a certain point.

Mr Butcher hails from Alexandra, where he got his first taste of paddling at a 'have a go' day on a local river at age nine.

Anyone wanting to watch him in action will need to set their alarms overnight on Monday, however - Mr Butcher's next races will be at 1.52am and 2.28am on Tuesday, August 6, New Zealand time at the Vaires sur Marne Nautical Stadium.

The 29 year old performed impressively to win one of his qualifying heats, powering his way to an early lead, which he maintained throughout the race.

Meanwhile Ms Jone's first race is set for 1.30am.

Main image (Facebook/The NZ Team): Finn Butcher paddles for the finish line in the canoe slalom at Vaires sur Marne.