Two days of action packed boat racing are coming to Glendhu Bay this weekend (November 4-5) for round one of the 2023 Hydro Thunder NZ Championship.

It is the second time the event has raced at Glendhu Bay, which event organiser Denise Preece says is a perfect location.

“It's an ideal venue with the motor camp and the viewing right there in front of you,” she said.

“It was the first event last year and it went off really well.”

The racing will feature six boat classes from Juniors to the prestigious Grand Prix (GP) Hydroplanes which reach speeds up to 280 kilometres per hour.

Competitors will be looking for a strong start to the five-round racing series with their accumulated points determining the New Zealand Champion. 

Denise said there are eight GP Hydroplane entries this year (six last year) including favourite Ken Lupton.

“Ken races in Canada and his boat didn’t arrive back in time to compete last year but he is here now,” Denise said.

“He will be one of the ones to beat.”

Tickets can be purchased on entry (from $25) with children 15 years old and under free.

PHOTO: Shot360 Photography