On Saturday 23 August, a convoy of classic fibreglass powerboats will launch from Three Mile Bay boat ramp at 10am for the latest NZ Retro Boats event, Chillin' in Taupō. The group will cruise north along the Taupō lakefront, stopping at several points before making their way back to the ramp later in the day.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Mine Bay Māori carvings, followed by a stop at Acacia Bay to stretch the legs, share a picnic, and talk all things retro boating. The return leg traces the shoreline back past the township before the convoy heads for home.
Brendon Cornes, organiser and admin of the NZ Retro Boats Facebook Group, is the driving force behind these gatherings. Last year's Taupō event brought together a wide range of well-kept classics, from Hamilton Jets and Haines Hunters to Sidewinders, Vistacrafts, and restored Sea Nymphs. These casual get-togethers have been steadily building a national network of classic boat owners and enthusiasts across the country.
The calendar is filling out nicely beyond August. A North Island meet-up is already confirmed for Saturday 15 November, with Lake Tarawera in the Rotorua Lakes region hosting the end-of-year run. Early planning is also underway for a South Island gathering, with interest growing among retro boat enthusiasts in the south.
Three Mile Bay is a well-equipped venue for the occasion. The ramp runs two lanes in and two lanes out, trailer parking is plentiful, and clean toilet facilities are on site. A 24-hour ramp pass costs $6, available locally through Taupō Hunting & Fishing. Route maps and links to local businesses stocking supplies have also been shared on the Facebook Group for those travelling in.
Given the season, participants are encouraged to pack warm clothing, with a beanie close to essential on the lake in late August. Food and refreshments for the Acacia Bay picnic stop are worth sorting before setting out.
Support for the event has come from two local businesses, Taupō Hunting & Fishing and Taupō Repco, both helping with costs and logistics behind the scenes.
