Sealegs shows off clever craft

Sealegs International gives a demonstration of its 7.7-metre amphibious craft. Photo / Glenn Taylor

Publicly-listed All Blacks sponsor Sealegs International was in Hawke's Bay during the weekend giving demonstrations of its amphibious craft.

Chief executive David Glen gave public demonstrations at Clifton and Waimarama and a private demonstration at Te Awanga.

The Auckland company would be happy to make a repeat visit to the region, to demonstrate the 6-metre to 7.7m craft priced at $150,000 to $220,000.

"We would like to see more boats in the Bay," Mr Glen said.

There were more than 900 craft in more than 35 countries around the world "but Sealegs are a rarity in Hawke's Bay".

Users include the Indian Police Force, Australia's State Emergency Service, the Malaysia Fire Department and the US Fire Department.

"It is unique technology. We are the only people in the world who have got amphibious craft in production."

While it has garnered strong institutional interest overseas, the craft was designed for the recreational user, Mr Glen said.

The original two-wheel drive technology has been replaced with all-wheel drive, improving its 10-km/h off-road capability.

The wheels take 10 seconds to engage and are retracted once driven on to a custom trailer.