2013
The perfect Auto Navigation system is born. Having been unimpressed by kontikis with GPS-driven alternatives, the design team at Predator Kontiki built their own system using a smart e-compass and servo-powered rudder. The Predator Auto Nav system now sends the kontiki straight out to sea in minimal time, correcting its direction many times a second if required.
2010
Improved shark shape! The newly re-styled Predator 44 and 54 models use the chunkier, more attractive shark shape, leading to a heightened profile on the beach – you’re even more likely to draw a crowd now…
2009
Product line-up extended to include three thrust options. With demand strong for the most powerful motors, Fishtex added first a 44lb then 54lb thrust motor option to take the range up to 3 models:
- Predator 30 – family-friendly model, light weight and economical
- Predator 44 – tough powerful model, our most popular
- Predator 54 – builds on the 44 strength but with an additional 10lb of power to get through even the roughest NZ conditions
2005
After further product development, Fishtex is set up to manufacture and distribute Predator Kontiki throughout New Zealand and overseas. The Predator is (and remains, in 2014) the only kontiki product on the market that can cut easily through waves and head straight out to sea, due to its sleek shark shape. (All other models bounce over waves and hence get knocked off-course.)
2004
Kev Walton, owner of Waltex Ltd, designs the first Predator Kontiki after using the most popular alternative and finding its performance dreadful.