Decade mark for Duck dynasty

QUACKY BIRTHDAY: Trevor Weir says he and his brother set out to offer a quality product with excellent customer service at an affordable price - and they have succeeded. PHOTO/BEN FRASER 201213BF9

Everyone would have seen Rotorua's big yellow amphibious duck on the lakes and around town.

Earlier this week, Rotorua Duck Tours celebrated its 10th anniversary; a proud milestone in the company's history.

Brothers Peter and Trevor Weir developed the concept back in early 2003 when Peter Weir raised the idea of starting an amphibious tour company in New Zealand using authentic World War II army ducks he had seen in action during his time living in the United States.

Brother Trevor, who was living overseas at the time, jumped onboard and both upped stakes and moved to Rotorua in the hope of turning the idea into a reality.

After nine months' groundwork, Rotorua Duck Tours began operating three tours a day on December 17, 2003.

The brothers said it didn't take long for duck fever to catch on.

Trevor Weir said many people were curious about the history of the authentic amphibious vehicle, others were intrigued by the size and look of it, while many enjoyed the informative commentary and the ability to view such spectacular scenery up close.

"Whatever the reason, people came back again and again and, after 10 years in business, the product is pretty well refined," he said.

Rotorua Duck Tours works with other operators to create tailor-made packages so there is something for everyone.

"It has been an amazing journey for both families involved and everyone is really proud of what they have achieved. We set out to offer a quality product with excellent customer service at an affordable price and think we have achieved that. We have always had the customer at our core and through this we have been able to develop further tours."

Rotorua Duck Tours has diversified along the way adding corporate packages with events such as the "Amazing Duck Race", educational tours and barbecue tours for families or businesses.