TecTrax, the New Zealand designers and builders behind amphibious boat technology, rounded out 2025 with a significant development: a new wireless joystick controller for their Boat-Launcher, unveiled just before Christmas.
When Boating New Zealand visited TecTrax in mid 2025 for an early look at the Boat-Launcher, the team were working with a prototype controller while further iterations were in progress. Even then, it was clear a joystick-style interface was the direction they were heading.
That came as little surprise. Joysticks have steadily become the go-to input method across a wide range of systems, and the marine world is no exception. Mercury Marine's introduction of joystick control for single-engine outboards earlier in 2025 underlined just how broadly accepted this approach has become. A well-designed joystick offers low-effort, intuitive control, functioning as a natural extension of the operator's hands rather than a separate control unit.
The TecTrax controller was designed and built in-house. It takes visual cues from a game controller but is purpose-built for use near water, with rugged construction and full waterproofing. Wireless operation extends to a range of 500 metres, giving operators plenty of room to move when manoeuvring the Boat-Launcher into a launch zone. Battery life comfortably exceeds four hours between charges, and a USB-C port makes recharging straightforward. A built-in display provides immediate feedback on battery status, current speed, and drive mode, keeping the operator informed at a glance.
With TecTrax continuing to build momentum, there is plenty of reason to watch closely for what the team brings forward in 2026.
