Early starts for a big day
For many, Saturday’s Chillin’ in Taupō began in the dark. Some had towed down the night before, while others set off at dawn, headlights cutting through the cold with trailers rattling behind. The rigs were as varied as the boats themselves — from retro pairings like Troy Guise’s cream Rambler Classic v8 sedan, a 1965 classic hauling a neatly restored equally retro 4.5-metre Fleetline Sapphire built by Fibreglass Moulders Ltd from Otara, to everyday family wagons and four-wheel drives. By the time the sun edged over the hills, Lake Taupō — New Zealand’s largest lake, set in the middle of the North Island — was already alive with anticipation. Centrally located, it drew boats from every direction, all converging on Three Mile Bay.
Twenty-seven classic fibreglass boats arrived, with 25 making it to the water. After last year’s Tarawera run, expectations were running high. The boat ramp buzzed as crews launched and swapped stories. Among the first to draw a crowd were Andrew Whyte and Phil Hurn matching Sea Nymph V13s, which gleamed side by side.
Sea Nymph is a historic New Zealand boat manufacturer known for early fibreglass runabouts and a wide range of models from the 1960s, including fishing, ski, and cabin cruiser boats. Though production ceased as a distinct brand in 1999, many models remain in use, and the brand has a legacy of well-built, durable boats.
Just over 13 feet long with tidy medium-vee hulls, the V13 is a Kiwi classic, and seeing two so well-kept together set the tone for the day.
Each boat told its own story
Out on the water, Alex and Nadine Broßmann’s Glastron V174 looked every bit the American showpiece. Stretching 5.3 metres with an 83-inch beam, its 3-litre 140hp MerCruiser gave it a deep, confident growl. As the photos show, the Glastron was impossible to ignore.
For something rarer, Dylan Rangiawha’s Condor Craft Skipjack stood out. At 13′2 with a semi-cabin design, powered by a 70hp Johnson, the Skipjack reminded everyone of the small Kiwi-built boats that once filled lakes and jetties. The Skipjack is a line of small, classic powerboats manufactured in New Zealand. Dylan finds that it cuts through the chop nicely for a boat of its size.
The Sutton Mason Marlin Marauder, brought by Dean and Melanie Cole, was another highlight. Sutton Mason was established in Auckland in the early 1950s. Their Marlin Marauder powerboats earned a strong following. Kiwi-built with cold-moulded kauri and a 14-degree deadrise, the Marauder was considered premium in its day. Paired with a 115hp Yamaha, the Coles’ boat showed just how well Sutton Mason’s craftsmanship has endured — smooth lines, capable performance, and plenty of admiring looks at the picnic stop.
Then there was Jason Dixon’s Sea Nymph 14’6, a boat with a strong local connection. Having spent its entire life on Taupō, the 14-footer (with a beam of around 66 inches) looked showroom-ready. More than one participant commented that it was living proof of how well a fibreglass classic can hold up with careful care.
Together, the fleet of retro boats painted a picture of pride and variety — a rolling showcase of New Zealand’s retro boating heritage.
Cruising the great lake
By mid-morning the convoy was underway, bows pointed north along the Taupō waterfront. With sunshine overhead and the lake flat as glass, the boats looked spectacular in formation. The first stop was the Mine Bay Māori carvings, a dramatic artwork cut into the cliff face. Only accessible by water, it provided a natural photo opportunity and a cultural highlight for the group.
From there, the run continued to Acacia Bay, where the boats were beached side by side. Picnic blankets came out, chilly bins were opened, and the sound of engines gave way to conversation and laughter. One lucky boatie even hooked a trout, a reminder that Taupō is as famous for fishing as it is for boating.
It was at the picnic stop that the sense of community shone brightest. As organiser Brendon Cornes put it: “You come for the boats, but you leave with friends.”
Community support
Spot prizes and sponsorship added to the day’s atmosphere, thanks to Engine Works Marine, Taupō Hunting & Fishing, Repco Taupō, Total Energies Taupō, Boating New Zealand, Rayglass Boats, and DeBretts Hot Springs.
Brendon was quick to thank the businesses — and his wife Kim — for making it possible. “It was a great turnout, and we met some awesome people. Please support these businesses if you can,” he said.
Looking ahead
If Taupō proved retro boating can thrive in winter, Tarawera in November promises even more. Some are already booking accommodation, keen to keep the momentum rolling as the NZ Retro Boats community grows stronger with each run.
A huge thank you to Brendon and Kim Cornes who supplied information and photos. Our interview with Brendon is coming soon!
James Bond would have been very pleased with the NZ Retro Boats gathering 2024 at Lake Tarawera
