McKay started in 1936 in, Northland, New Zealand, as a small electrical business serving local industries.

Over the decades, it grew into one of the country’s leading electrotechnology companies.

McKay entered the marine electrical space with its first superyacht project in the USA in 2003. Soon after, it was engaged by New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence in a 30-year partnership to support the Navy.

McKay later developed a custom electric outboard system for a private client, laying the groundwork for future-focused marine innovation.

McKay completes New Zealand’s first Electric Ferry, Ika Rere in 2021.

In 2021, McKay saw a gap in the marine industry. Electric propulsion was making waves in ferries and super-yachts, it wasn’t reaching everyday boaties. That needed to change.

Naut started in Whangārei with a lofty ambition: proving electric boating is possible and making it accessible to all.

Under Fiona’s leadership, the Naut team began designing Naut’s Electric Propulsion System from the ground up with a focus on high performance electric experiences.

Naut securing seed funding and continued developing Naut’s Electric Propulsion System and tested sterndrive and outboard prototypes with real users.

Beachcomber (sterndrive) was Naut’s first proof of concept. Followed by the development of the first Outboard prototypes becoming Kaha.

This year, Naut launches the New Zealand’s most powerful Electric Propulsion System.

Ngaru
Turn-key electric boat that blends craft and clean tech.

Kaha
Outboard that’s built for serious power boasting a 300+hp electric engine with 500hp peak.