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Southern Discoveries joins forces with Kawarau jets


Two of New Zealand's top tourism companies in Queenstown are joining forces.

NBR Staff
Fri, 29 Apr 2011

Two of New Zealand's top tourism companies have combined forces in Queenstown.

Southern Discoveries Ltd, based in Te Anau, announced it had purchased 50% shareholding in Kawarau Jet, which was the world's first commercial jet company.  Southern Discoveries' general manager John Robson said the company had purchased the 50% shareholding held by Kawarau Jet's directors Andrew Brinsley and John Martin, with the remaining 50% held by Kawarau Jet director Shaun Kelly.

The deal will take effect today, with Mr Robson saying the two family owned and operated companies had similar core values, as well as enjoying the services of loyal staff and a sense of pride in their operations.

"Kawarau Jet is an extremely well-run business with a very strong brand. We are both already well established in the tourism market but with very different clients, so we see this as a way of continuing to grow both businesses through this joint representation.”

Kawarau Jet operates eight jetboats, employs 15 staff and offers rides on the Kawarau and Shotover rivers in Queenstown.

Mr Brinsley said Kawarau Jet was an iconic Queenstown brand with a 50 year heritage. 

“I’ve been with Kawarau Jet for 11 years and although I am pursuing other business and family interests in Queenstown, I’ll be staying on the K Jet board as an independent chair and will be particularly excited to participate in setting the platform for an exciting new stage in the company’s history.”

Director of Kawarau Jet for 24 years, Mr Kelly said the new arrangement offered potential and scope for the company.

"There are very good synergies between the two businesses so we very much see this as a mutually beneficial partnership."

NBR Staff
Fri, 29 Apr 2011
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Southern Discoveries joins forces with Kawarau jets
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