Organised by Brendon Cornes⏤who, so amazingly coordinated with the boat owners, to provide information about the pictured classic boats, and whose wife, Kim Cornes was official photographer (thank you both!)⏤a key figure in New Zealand’s retro boating community, the event celebrated the timeless allure of these vessels, their sleek designs, and the camaraderie of those who keep this vibrant culture alive.
Cornes, administers the active NZ Retro Boats Facebook Group, reflected on the success of the gathering: “Pretty happy with the turnout and feedback for sure. There are plenty of enthusiastic boaties out there.” His dedication and enthusiasm were evident throughout the event, which attracted a strong community of retro boat lovers.
A Community of Retro Boating Enthusiasts
The NZ Retro Boats Facebook Group has become a hub for like-minded individuals, offering a platform to share stories, ask questions, and showcase their prized vessels. Events like this gathering not only bring these connections to life but also highlight the lasting charm and timeless appeal of retro boating.
Cornes’ vision for the event was made possible with the support of several sponsors, including Telfer Marine Rotorua, Rotorua Hunting and Fishing, Boating New Zealand, Redwoods Burgerfuel, and Rayglass Boats—a brand deeply rooted in New Zealand’s boating legacy since the 1980s. Rayglass Boats made their presence felt by bringing two of their own vessels to the gathering, underscoring their commitment to the retro boating culture.
Spotlight on the Boats
The gathering featured an impressive array of well-loved and pristinely maintained retro boats, each with its own unique story:
1988 Sleekline: Owned by Brad Tinker, this boat stands out as a true racer, still competing in offshore events. Powered by a 225hp Yamaha engine, it showcases enduring performance and craftsmanship.
Figlass Sidewinder: Dylan Harris’ 175hp Yamaha-powered boat embodies the spirit of 1970s and early 1980s ski boats. Known for its versatility, it doubles as a wakeboarding vessel and remains a favourite among petrol-head boating enthusiasts.
Haines Hunter V198: Presented by Tim Tsoumas from Rayglass Boats, this masterpiece has been restored to better-than-new condition. With its 200 Mercury engine, it impressed the crowd with both its aesthetics and power.
Early 70s Sea Nymph V13: Owned by Dio De le Fuente, this boat remains in its original condition, complete with its 50hp Johnson Seahorse outboard. As the fortunate third owner, Dio has preserved the boat’s classic charm, making it a standout at the gathering.
Hamilton Jet: This V8-powered jet boat belongs to Cameron Jefferies. Details about the hull are yet to be confirmed, but its power and style made it a notable highlight at the gathering.
Sea Nymph 14’6: Owned by Andrew Roigard, this iconic boat has been beautifully restored by Performance Boat Building in Cambridge. As one of the most recognisable models of its era, it drew plenty of admiration at the gathering.
17ft Vistacraft: Owned by Tony Yurjevic, this powerhouse is powered by a 350hp V8 Mercury outboard. Capable of reaching speeds up to 71mph, it was an impressive sight (“impressively insane to see”) and a real crowd-pleaser at the event. On a side note, Tony’s boat is only early in its development and will be reaching much higher speeds in the future.
The love and dedication of the owners were evident in every detail, from the polished hulls to the carefully maintained engines.
Reflections and Future Gatherings
As the event came to a close, attendees reflected on a day filled with shared stories, admiration for timeless craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for retro boating. Cornes’ dedication to bringing likeminded classic boat owners together, and the much appreciated support of sponsors ensured the gathering’s success, setting a high bar for future events.
Events like the NZ Retro Boats Gathering not only celebrate New Zealand’s boating heritage but also inspire a new generation to preserve and appreciate these classic vessels. Whether it’s the hum of a vintage engine or the gleam of a restored hull, the passion for retro boats is as vibrant as ever.
Mark your calendars—there’s no doubt the next gathering (already in the planning stage) will be just as unforgettable.
I thought I would leave you with this nostalgic memory. New Zealanders have been a nation of boat lovers for a very long time.
