Founded in Sydney in 1945 by Terry Quantrill and Frank Newman, Quintrex initially began life converting war-surplus vehicles into trucks and trailers. But by 1946, the duo had shifted focus to boats, building their first aluminium models using steel plate over steel framing. By 1955, the company had been renamed Quintrex Australia Products Pty Ltd, and boats had become its mainstay.
Quintrex quickly gained attention for doing things differently. The Flared Bow, introduced in 1968, set a new benchmark for handling and spray deflection in small boats. It was followed by the **Millennium Hull** in 2005, which improved lift and stability; the Blade Hull in 2013, which sharpened rough-water handling; and today’s Apex Hull—a sharp-edged design optimised for performance and comfort.
“There wouldn’t be a boatie in Australia who doesn’t know the name Quintrex,” said Sam Heyes, General Manager at Telwater and Quintrex owner. “And that’s because for 80 years, we’ve consistently delivered quality, performance, and innovation that keeps people coming back to the brand.”
The company’s reach now extends well beyond Australia. In New Zealand, Quintrex boats are distributed by Family Boats, based in East Tamaki, Auckland. Family Boats is one of New Zealand’s leading marine retailers, offering a full range of Quintrex models—from entry-level tinnies to serious fishing rigs—all backed with expert local knowledge and after-sales support.
Quintrex in New Zealand
Looking for a new Quintrex? Family Boats in East Tāmaki, Auckland, is New Zealand’s exclusive Quintrex dealer. With expert advice, Yamaha packages, and full workshop support, they’ll match you with the right rig for Kiwi waters. Visit familyboats.co.nz or call 09 274 0511 to learn more.
📍 223 Ōrmiston Road
🌐 familyboats.co.nz
📞 09 274 0511
The features that have made Quintrex popular in Australia—durable hull construction, stability, and practical layouts—resonate just as strongly with Kiwi boaters. With conditions often demanding and coastal fishing being a national pastime, Quintrex’s rugged, versatile designs make them a natural fit for New Zealand waters.
With over 80 models in the current line‑up, Quintrex caters to a wide variety of boating lifestyles. The company operates through 60 premium dealerships across Australia and exports to over 15 countries, reinforcing its position as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest aluminium‑boat manufacturer.
In 2019, Quintrex’s parent company Telwater was acquired by Canadian powersports giant BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), bringing with it global R&D capacity and fresh investment. In 2025, the company entered another new chapter as Yamaha Motor Australia announced it would acquire Telwater from BRP—adding Yamaha’s marine muscle to the Quintrex story.
Despite its size and success, Quintrex remains proudly committed to local manufacturing, innovation, and lifestyle boating. The brand has won over ten Aluminium Boat of the Year awards, demonstrating its enduring performance and market leadership.
As the company celebrates eight decades of craftsmanship and adventure, its message is simple: Quintrex is here for the long haul—and Kiwis are very much part of the journey.
