Take a Jet on the Great Lake

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 465, 8 December 1992, Page 24 (Supplement)

Take a Jet on the Great Lake

ADVERTORIAL The great Lake Jet is an innovative concept born out of the need to show visitors to Lake Taupo the most remote and treasured areas in and around the lake, while still complying with speed restrictions and of course nature's restrictions. Speed is obviously the answer on the lake because of its sheer size and with so much to see and often so far to travel, the Reef Jet fits the bill. With a 454 cubic inch chevrolet V8 (300H.P.) coupled to a Hamilton 1031 jet unit (380 litres per second thrust) the 20ft 25° hull is carpeted throughout for extra comfort, an aerofoil is craft stability at speed, wet weather canvas support andfor use as a raft rack support. The river raft was designed and built by Turangi Canvas and Upolstry. This needed to be long and narrow to navigate the winding | Waihana river, but had to I be completely collapsable I' for storage at the rear of

the Reef Jet also because Taupo weather is so unpredictable even on sunny days. The raft needed wet weather canvas which can be erected in seconds. The southern shores of the lake are renowned for secenery and shelter with many fine tributaries to explore. Tokaanu was the ideal departure for such a trip. Tokaanu has rich Maori and European history with free thermal walks, hot thermal pools and a first class hotel and motels. Tokaanu is also a good departure point for exploring the bird's foot delta of the Tongariro river, and the Waihi thermal village and waterfall make a pleasant short-trip option. The western Bay Lake and River Expedition is unique to Tokaanu, passengers explore bays and beaches en-route to the Western Bay with its towering welded rock cliffs found only on Taupo. At the mouth of the Waihaha river your friendly guide Steve Hardy unpacks the raft

motor. Passengers often help although a cup of tea is enjoyed by most before starting out on the second part of the journey. The river twists and turns from wetlands and reed to mature native bush and still more sheer rock faces. Blue duck, tuis and king fishers are all frequently seen. Steve says the record trout number seen is 31. He has a prize for spotting more. As we draw nearer to Tieke Falls basin you can hear the rumble before you see it. Lunch is provided here and many climb the ropes to view the falls from above with its strange holes and rock formations. The downriver journey is very tranquil. Steve often stops the motor to just a drift and enjoy the sound of silence. This is a 4 & 1 /2 hour return trip from Tokaanu, Lunch is provided and represents good value at $69.50 adult and $35 child, courtesy pick from Turangi Tokaanu area. Shorter tours are also available. To book phone (07) 374 8338.