The story of Haines Hunter, a cornerstone of Australian boating, began in Queensland in 1959. It was here that two visionary brothers, John Haines and Garry Haines, embarked on their journey, crafting their first fiberglass speedboat in a humble backyard workshop. John Haines, a notable Australian boat builder and racer, would go on to found the Haines Hunter company officially in 1966. The distinctive "Haines Hunter" name itself has roots in an early collaboration; the "Hunter" part was inspired by a design concept developed by Ray Hunt for a 23ft timber version of a boat, which John Haines himself skippered in 1960. From these early endeavors, the brothers quickly established themselves as innovators in the Australian boating scene.
A Legacy of Evolution
Haines Hunter's history is marked by continuous development and a steadfast commitment to its core identity. While they began with fiberglass, a material that would become their hallmark, their journey saw strategic growth and an expansion of their manufacturing capabilities. Notably, Haines Hunter boats were also produced in New Zealand under license to the Australian parent company, establishing a strong presence across the Tasman.
One of the most intriguing chapters in the company's history was its brief venture into the world of multihulls during the 1980s. For a short while, Haines Hunter built the groundbreaking Farrier-designed TRAMP (in 1982) and SUPERTRAMP (in 1983) folding trimarans. These vessels were significant as they represented the first production folding trimarans designed by the legendary Ian Farrier. While a departure from their powerboat focus, it showcased the builder's capacity for diverse and innovative construction.
In more recent times, the leadership of Haines Hunter has seen a consistent vision. John Haber currently serves as the owner and managing director, a role he has held for an impressive 25 years, guiding the company through significant growth and market expansion.
Design Philosophy and Enduring Identity
Haines Hunter has cultivated an enviable reputation in the marine world, primarily known for its high-quality fibreglass powerboats. They are celebrated for delivering proven performance across all sea conditions, making their vessels highly sought-after for both new and used markets. Their design philosophy hinges on a trifecta of quality: quality of design, quality of construction, and quality of service. This commitment translates into boats that are known for inspired design, breakthrough innovation, and unmatched craftsmanship.
The brand's identity is deeply rooted in its focus on practical, high-performance trailer boats, ideal for family outings and serious fishing alike. Haines Hunter incorporates signature design features and construction techniques that differentiate their vessels. Their "SSM System" reinforces structural integrity, and their distinctive hull designs incorporate strakes that provide superior traction in the water. Beyond these technical aspects, a keen attention to detail permeates their entire manufacturing process, from initial concept to the finished product. As mentioned earlier, early conceptual design influence came from Ray Hunt, and famously, Ian Farrier for their short-lived, but impactful, trimaran series.
Iconic Models and Lasting Legacy
Over the decades, Haines Hunter has produced countless models that have left an indelible mark on the Australian boating landscape. Among their significant and successful models, the iconic 2100 ski boat stands out within the R-Series. Larger models in their range are particularly lauded for their prowess in offshore game fishing tournaments. More recently, models like the Patriot 760 and the unveiled 760R continue to carry the brand's legacy forward.
The brief production run of the TRAMP and SUPERTRAMP folding trimarans, designed by Ian Farrier, also forms a notable part of their legacy. These vessels were pioneers as the first production folding trimarans, a testament to Haines Hunter's willingness to embrace innovative designs.
The Builder Today
Today, Haines Hunter remains a prominent force in the global marine market, specifically as one of Australia's most iconic boat manufacturers and a leading production boat builder in New Zealand. Under the continued leadership of John Haber, the company maintains its unwavering focus on quality and performance.
Modern Haines Hunter boats continue to appeal to a broad spectrum of boating enthusiasts, from families seeking comfortable cruising experiences to serious anglers requiring robust fishing platforms. The ownership experience is characterized by the vessels' renowned reliability and impressive resale value. The brand's enduring commitment to its founding principles of quality design, construction, and service ensures that Haines Hunter maintains a strong and loyal community of owners who appreciate the proven performance and craftsmanship of these Australian-built icons.
