Parade's Batski a first

Santa and Batman will team up for the Trustpower Santa Parade in Tauranga on Saturday morning. Photo / John Borren

A smashed up jetski has been transformed into a racey Batmobile that will be a main feature in the Trustpower Christmas Parade in Tauranga on Saturday.

Inventor, BlackChilli owner Richard Parker believes the full-size Batmobile jet ski, complete with machine guns, radars and missile launchers is a world first.

"I tried to find another example of one across the world. I could find ample Batmobile bikes, but from the research I've done I don't believe there is another example of a Batmobile jet ski in the world, so I'm thinking we might have created a first."

Last year the company created the Frozen float.

"This year we thought we'd like to create something that boys would love. Then I discovered my neighbour had an old yellow jet ski hull and I got to thinking."

The project took about five months to complete and is made up of "MDF, plastic pipes and lots of recycled materials".

"I had to create the design myself and I wanted to make sure it was authentic enough and something that Batman would be happy with. I'm pretty pleased with how it has turned out. I think this batmobile is well and truly equipped to take on the bad guys."

There are 54 floats, vehicles and bands registered for the parade.

Trustpower Xmas Parade:

* Saturday from 11am. Parade route is down Devonport Road and along the Strand to Harington Street.