15,000 answer call of the sea at Viaduct

About $100 million worth of boats were on display at the Auckland International Boat Show at the weekend, a 50 per cent rise on last year.

About 15,000 visitors viewed the line-up of the best that New Zealand's marine industry has to offer as well as some impressive imports.

Marine Industry Association executive director Peter Busfield says he expects about $50 million to change hands in boat and equipment purchases as a result of the three-day show at the Viaduct.

"There's a new enthusiasm for the balance of lifestyle that boating offers and, with the slowdown in the housing market, more people seem to be opting to spend their money on yachts."

Locals exhibiting included Ian Franklin, Oliver Marine, Salthouse Marine Group, Lloyd Stevenson, Genesis Marine, and Formula Cruisers, while imports came from Australia, Germany, Denmark, France, Argentina, Taiwan, Italy and South Africa.

The classic yachts were the usual star attraction, although this year they were rivalled by the Aquada amphibious car. Event marketing manager Simon Keely said it was the biggest show yet.