Here the text of a notice from the AMPBA Committee

All AMPBA model boaters have been invited to New Zealand for the Easter 2007 for a 4 day event with Australia vs New Zealand. This New Zealand sanctioned event is called

“THUNDER DOWNUNDER”

This event is to be an annual event with the New Zealand teams racing in Australia in Easter 2008.The race will be at the Hakanoa Lake and organized by the AMPBA equivalent in New Zealand called the NZMPBA.This is to be a family trip with entertainment organized for all including our wives and children.There is a hot air balloon festival on at the same time so we will need to know numbers and book soon.

Accommodation:

We have a choice of staying at Hamilton or Hakanoa Lake.the price for rooms start at $85.00 per night with the average at $120.00 per night twin share room.

Air Fares:

Jetstar are approximately $400.00 return and Qantas is a bit dearer,although this being a international flight we can take extra luggage which would be the boats.

Event:

There will be one practice day and three or four race days.They race all of our types of boats, Riggers,Sport Hydros, Tunnels, Monos etc. They are running Nitro,Gas & Electric. They will supply all types of fuels for us and help in any way they can.It will be a 5 oval lap race the same as here.They do however have harder noise restrictions but have been able to wave these for the week we would be there.we would have a tent and tables set up to fit all us Aussie boaters in.There will be media covering the event and already there are sponsors willing to help make this a successful race. Guys this is a good opportunity to travel and race overseas with your family and friends,there is still lots of working out to do but well worth the effort.This will be posted on the AMPBA forum so all can have an input.