E
ditor Matt Hewetson 
managed to get out on 
the Surtees 770 XL Game 
Fisher Grand Prize for this 
year’s 70th edition of the 
Hutchwilco New Zealand 
Boat Show and valued over $380,000!
Having worked at twenty shows 
since 2004 for the Hutchwilco 
New Zealand Boat Show, I have 
witnessed some incredibly happy 
winners of the boat grand prize 
that is offered each year, but this 
year’s prize is the biggest yet!
Many attendees are drawn to 
the show primarily because of the 
boat prize, though they’re equally 
eager to check out the impressive 
selection of new boats, engines, 
and fishing gear on offer.  But the 
chance to win a new boat stacked 
with gear is a big drawcard.
This year the show celebrates 
turning 70 years old, so the Surtees 
770 XL with Yamaha 350hp V6 
package is their biggest prize yet.  I 
was fortunate to get out on the vessel 
on a recent test trip off Whakatane 
with Geoff Cox from Surtees to 
ensure all systems are go for the 
lucky winner when drawn at the 
Auckland Showgrounds in mid-May.
NEW GAME FISHER
The Surtees Game Fisher range 
of hard top models are popular 
selling boats amongst Kiwi and 
Aussie anglers, and in 2025 their 
range underwent an all-new design 
upgrade. With several models in 
the line-up from 620 up to 800, the 
770 XL blends innovation, comfort, 
and that unmistakable Surtees 
DNA — built for those who demand 
more from their time on the water.
A key feature of the new 770 XL is 
utilizing a 2.50m beam so it is easier 
to tow and at night (over the big 
brother 800 model), while it also has 
a rise-and-fall table that converts to 
a third berth for those overnighters.
After meeting Geoff at the 
Whakatane ramp and loading the 
gear, the spacious cockpit provides 
plenty of room for anglers to fish 
comfortably.  While the bifold glass 
doors into the cabin really open 
the space, as the 250mm longer 
cabin makes room for comfortable 
seating for up to four people, and 
the 2.5m beam keeps the deck 
open for up to eight crew.
As we launched and headed for 
the calm bar crossing, I checked 
out the extremely comfortable 
cabin with many practical features 
including, a pull-out Dometic 
drawer fridge, hot and cold water 
tap with sink and a cooker.
 /FISHINGINGODZONE  51
The writer on the helm of the 770 XL on 
the trip out off Whakatane to the Rurima 
Islands where the Yamaha V6 350hp cruised 
at 53.6km/h (4500RPM at 54.6L/h).

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