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New Zealanders and foreign tourists will soon be able to cruise the Waikato River in the lap of luxury on New Zealand's first houseboat.
Similar to houseboats running on Australia's Murray River, the Discovery 1 will sleep up to 12 people and feature a heated spa pool, barbecue area and sun loungers.
The vessel will be available for day trips or longer holidays, and have a "fully staffed" option.
It was designed and built by Ian and Judy Simpson, who own a houseboat that runs on the Murray.
"So many New Zealanders travel to Australia for houseboat holidays. We want to show them the scenic beauty of our own Waikato River," Mr Simpson said.
The boat, being built at Mercer, is set to run between the historic Tuakau Landing and Port Waikato, a previously uncharted section of the Waikato.
