The New Zealand Rowing national championships will go ahead this week after the country aside from Auckland dropped down to alert level one.

The regatta in Twizel, which was originally scheduled to begin on Monday, was put on hold due to the alert level changes made by the Government on Sunday.

It begins today in a condensed format, wrapping up on Saturday.

The event offers Kiwi rowers and more importantly, Olympic hopefuls, a necessary piece of preparation ahead of the Tokyo Games, as New Zealand Rowing does not plan to enter any World Cups or other international regattas this year.

Double Olympic gold medallist Hamish Bond told Mike Hosking he was surprised by the drop to level one, and had one foot on the plane.

"I think that's where the experience plays a part now in being able to switch back on.

"Really pleased for more the club crews who this is their focus and pinnacle of the season, and they get to have that final race and see the season out."