December 1st 2006
Hukafalls Jet introduces new twin boats
Tourism leader Huka Jet has launched its new name and invested $1.6 million in four new twin engine jet boats and workshop facilities in time for the busy summer season.
The iconic company, operating in Taupo in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island for 16 years, will be known as Hukafalls Jet from December 1.
One of the new boats will be unveiled for the first time during Taupo’s Santa Parade on Saturday December 2, then the boats will be officially christened during a special locals day at Hukafalls Jet on Sunday December 3.
On Sunday, locals from the Taupo region will be able to ride the new boats for just $20, on production of a local power or phone bill.
All proceeds from the day will go to St John Taupo. Hukafalls Jet is aiming to raise $10,000 to help St John buy up to eight new Motorola ambulance hand-held radios to improve communications at local events and assist with a faster response time to incidents.
St John will have an ambulance and information tent on site during the open day between 9am and 5pm, and there will be a sausage sizzle for all the family.
“We’re really looking forward to getting our fantastic new boats out on the water for all to see, and giving the ride of a lifetime to at least 400 happy locals while raising money for a very good cause,” said Hukafalls Jet Manager Clark Scott.
“Hukafalls Jet has safely carried more than 600,000 passengers over the years delivering a thrilling experience for visitors from all around the world.
“We offer the only jet boat trip to the base of the Huka Falls where you get a spectacular water level view of New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction. Nothing compares to watching up to 300,000 litres of water per second thundering over the cliff face towards you.”
Mr Scott said the brand new Hukafalls Jet boats incorporated the very latest technology and development “know how”, with improved safety features and black box technology for improved maintenance and engine efficiency.
“These boats have fantastic visibility thanks to tiered seats which are also ergonomically moulded, and even feature heated and hinged hand rails for enhanced comfort and safety. The overall look’s also far smarter,” he said.
“Technically, power is provided by supercharged V6 Buick Engines which put out a combined 520hp, with twin Hamilton Jet units thrusting 640 litres of water a second, providing superior performance and safety.
“With a third more power and thrust, this translates directly to enhanced acceleration and speed, delivering even more thrills to up to 14 passengers at a time.
“Our trips have always been about fun and excitement for all the family with our trademark 360º spins and our thrilling drive style, and that hasn’t changed. We run a professional operation with drivers who are very much looking forward to the buzz the new boats will create.
“We will be providing a level of service and product delivery that ultimately will continue to add value to the wider tourism industry and the Taupo regional economy.”
