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Although Beneteau yachts have long enjoyed a strong presence in New Zealand - including dominating the local Moorings charter fleet - the company's extensive powerboat range has been all but invisible.
However, a well-known North Shore trailer-boat dealer has plans to change all that.
Roger Arkell of Rogers Boatshop has secured the exclusive dealership rights for a wide range of Beneteau powerboats and launches and will be releasing these over the next few months.
Arkell says he became interested in the range while visiting France on his way to the America's Cup regatta in Valencia. "I quickly realised just how established the Beneteau powerboat range is in Europe and how well they would fit in here," he says.
He also discovered that Beneteau were in the process of separating the marketing of their yacht and powerboat ranges. Citing his 34 years of experience selling and marketing powerboats in New Zealand, he pitched hard for the distribution rights.
Arkell says Rogers Boatshop will be distributing Beneteau's Swift 42 and 52 trawlers, the Antares fishing and flybridge models, Monte Carlo Sports Boats and the Flyer Air Step powerboats.
Arkell says the Flyer Air Step range is a completely new-generation design.
"By introducing air beneath the hull it creates a cushion and reduces friction and fuel consumption," he says. "This means smoother handling, greater passenger comfort and higher speeds with less horsepower."
Arkell believes the larger Swift and Antares boats will appeal to those who have already owned a number of trailer powerboats and are now looking to move up into something bigger and more stylish.
The first Antares 650 is already on display, with the larger 9 series expected before Christmas. The first Swift 42 trawler-style launch is scheduled to arrive in early January.
