Taking the pain out of terrain

Sealegs all-terrain amphibious craft has the ability to drive across estuary mud flats and soft shingle beaches.

Listed amphibious boat maker Sealegs International has developed an all-terrain version of its boat-cum-car.

The 5.6m Sealegs All Terrain Amphibious Craft can be driven across estuary mud flats and soft shingle beaches beyond the reach of conventional boats and trailers.

Once driven in the water, the craft's two hydraulically powered rear wheels and three front steering wheels retract to allow speeds of up to 60km/h.

On land, it has a ground clearance of 425mm, which allows it to climb inclines of more than 25 degrees.

Sealegs chief executive David McKee Wright said he was excited about the new markets the craft - designed and made in New Zealand - would open up.

"People who have waterfront property with soft terrain between them and the water at low tide finally have a boat launching solution for the first time," he said.

Sealegs amphibious marine craft sell for about $98,000, including trailer.

The Auckland-based company listed in 1994.

Its share price closed unchanged yesterday at 31c, having fetched between 22.4c and 44.8c in the last year.