What is Hydroplane Racing?
At its core, hydroplane racing is a breathtaking dance of speed and agility. The stars of the show are the Grand Prix hydroplanes, engineering marvels designed for one thing: to dominate the water.
These boats can reach speeds of up to 270 km/h (NZ National Record holder is Graeme Weller), powered by supercharged V8 engines boasting an incredible 1,500 horsepower. Their sleek, aerodynamic design allows them to skim across the surface of the water, creating the iconic “rooster tails” — walls of water up to 60 feet long and 20 feet high — that follow them as they race.
The action unfolds on a 2-kilometre oval or triangular course, with boats completing four laps in under 2.5 minutes. Tight turns, intense competition, and the sheer velocity make every race a pulse-pounding experience.
The Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder NZ Series
The Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder NZ Series is the pinnacle of powerboat racing in New Zealand, drawing top racers and teams from around the country. Alongside the Grand Prix hydroplanes, you’ll see thrilling performances from other classes, including Formula One Tunnels, Series 3000, and Modified Hydroplanes.
Each event in the series offers a unique backdrop, showcasing the diversity of New Zealand’s waterways. This year, the action will unfold at:
- Mangakino: Nestled near Lake Taupo, this venue kicks off the series with a bang.
- Karapiro: Known for its rowing heritage, Lake Karapiro provides a stunning stage for high-speed racing.
- Lake Rotoiti (Nelson Lakes): A breathtaking location surrounded by mountains, offering a picturesque yet challenging course.
- Twizel: A South Island gem, Twizel’s waters promise to close the series with exhilarating competition.
Round 1: Mangakino (30th November – 1st December 2024)
The series begins this weekend at Mangakino, with testing on Friday, 29th November, followed by two days of high-octane racing. The Saturday schedule is action-packed, with events spanning from the junior Total Transport Series to the high-stakes Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder heats. Highlights include:
- 9:45 am: The Total Transport Junior Series kicks off.
- 11:30 am: Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Series Heat 1A, followed by Heat 1B at 11:45 am.
- 1:15 pm: Heat 2A and 2B, with the final heats at 3:00 pm and 3:15 pm.
Whether it’s the up-and-coming racers in the junior leagues or the seasoned pros vying for supremacy, every heat promises edge-of-your-seat excitement.
The Masport Cup: A legacy of excellence
The Masport Cup will be raced on Lake Karapiro in the early February meeting. Beyond the series, the Masport Cup holds a special place in New Zealand’s powerboat racing history. Donated in 1925 by Mason and Porter (now known as Masport), the cup symbolises speedboat supremacy. Its storied past and fierce competition make it a highlight of the Hydro Thunder calendar, with racers striving not just for victory but for a place in history.
2023-2024 Highlights: Setting the Stage for 2024-2025
Last season, GP577 Lucas Oil and driver Ken Lupton delivered a standout performance, clinching the 2024 HRL Hydroplane Racing League title. Their dominance at Lake Taupo, with races held in front of the iconic yacht club, was nothing short of inspiring. This year, the stakes are even higher as teams gear up to challenge the reigning champions.
Get Ready for Hydro Thunder!
There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of hydroplane racing. The roar of engines, the spectacle of towering rooster tails, and the sheer speed of the boats create an atmosphere unlike any other. But it’s not just about the racing — these events are community-driven, family-friendly celebrations of New Zealand’s love for water sports.
Attending a Hydro Thunder event also offers a chance to explore the beauty of New Zealand’s inland waterways. From the tranquil beauty of Nelson Lakes to the energetic vibe of Mangakino, each venue is a destination in its own right.
As the Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder NZ Series launches into its 2024-2025 season, now is the time to join the excitement. Whether you’re cheering from the shore or captivated by the live coverage, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Prepare for speed, power, and the thrill of a lifetime as Hydro Thunder takes over New Zealand’s waterways!
