b'TestedMAC 600 Sport bit too far out at times with its twin tote tanks and 50hp outboard, but it was a mission we were after and one we usually got.Over the past several years since fishing in that boat, I have got to work with and know the team at MAC Boats in Auckland who produce an extensive range of plastic fantastic vessels for all purposes.From dinghies for tenders and large 7m centre consoles, they have a suitable selection of boats to choose from.At the recent Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show in May, I was admiring on their stand a white 600 Sport with decals and matching white Suzuki 150hp that really stood out. After talking with Sales Manager Mark Cunningham and Marketing Manager Claudia La Hood about how good the boat looked, we hatched a plan for a late winter test (and a bit of fishing of course) to see how the new rig went.GULF HARBOUR We organised to take the boat out from Gulf Harbour at the end of July with weather permitting. Being in the The boats layout is tidy with good seatingmiddle of winter it is always and space for crew, plenty of cabin storagea lottery planning a boat test withprotection provided from the clears.from too far out and we kept The Suzuki has an innovative pushI must confess to beingchecking the weather as the day loomed. Amazingly, after a bit of a fan of MACa spell of harsh weather our Boats, made from plasticchosen day was looking to be button ignition that makes quickthey are tough, safe andperfect for a winter trip out start-ups to move spots a breeze. surprise with a good rideinto the gulf.that offer anglers a stableWe met at the boat ramp fishing platform.I fishedat the end of Whangaparoa many years on a mates MACaround 9am and after 420 and we slayed the fishchecking the boat over, we in it, launching it through thelaunched and headed out wild west coast surf to wherethrough the Tiri Channel the fish were waiting in thetowards Little Barrier to look rugged Tasman. It was alwaysfor a winter workup. There up for the challenge, and wehad been a few reports of grew fond of the little boat.sporadic workups with big We took that small vessel asnapper under them. 64FISHING IN GODZONE SEP/OCT 2021'