Hukafalls Jet celebrates 21st birthday

Hukafalls Jet celebrates 21st birthday

Taupo, 16 November, 2011 – One of New Zealand's pioneer adventure tourism businesses turns 21 this month and has its millionth passenger in its sights.

Taupo based Hukafalls Jet opened its doors in 1990 and has grown from a one boat operation working from a small wooden shed on the banks of the Waikato River, to a four boat business with a purpose built base and 831,000 passengers through its doors. Its one millionth passenger is expected to step on board in the next 3-4 years.

Hukafalls Jet, Regional General Manager, Michelle Caldwell says, "We're the only jet boat operator on the river offering a ride right up to the base of Huka Falls - one of New Zealand's most visited natural attractions - which makes it a unique and spectacular experience."

Originally known as Huka Jet the company began as a subsidiary of Ngai Tahu owned, and Queenstown based, Shotover Jet. It rebranded in December 2006 to Hukafalls Jet at the same time launching four new state-of-the-art, twin-engine jet boats designed by Shotover Jet and built by 3D Design in Queenstown.
The engines are supercharged V6 Buick motors which put out a combined 520hp, with twin Hamilton Jet units thrusting 640 litres of water a second. With a third more power and thrust, this translates directly to enhanced acceleration and speed.
Hukafalls Jet is going from strength to strength translating not only into a substantial economic benefit to the Taupo region but also offering around 15 full-time jobs for locals as well as work experience opportunities for students and school leavers. Hukafalls Jet also works closely with other local tourism operators to promote Taupo as a tourist destination both domestically and off-shore.

In 1999 Christchurch based Ngai Tahu Corporation invested in the Shotover Jet Group and since then has taken full ownership of the group and has also expanded it with new acquisitions. Ngai Tahu Tourism now includes Hukafalls Jet, Shotover Jet, Dart River Safaris, Rainbow Springs, Kiwi Encounter, Franz Joseph Glacier Guides, Kaiteriteri Kayaks, Aqua Taxis, the Hollyford Track and most recently a joint-venture with Agrodome in Rotorua.
www.hukafallsjet.com

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