© Form and Float 2025
Dive into the joy of boat building with Form and Float
Welcome to Form and Float, a proudly New Zealand owned small business based in Auckland where you can enjoy the satisfaction of building your own water craft whether it be a tradition single seated kayak, a dinghy or a catamaran.
Form and Float KitSet Watercrafts
Whether you’re thinking of a classic single-seated kayak, a sturdy dinghy, or an adventurous catamaran, our comprehensive kits and hands-on support make it easy to turn your maritime dreams into reality. Dive in, get your hands dirty, and build something truly special that you can enjoy on rivers, ponds, and seas. Let’s create something memorable together!
Build Your Own Watercraft
We empower people of all ages to create their own unique watercraft, whether it’s a kayak, dinghy, or catamaran. With our easy-to-follow kits, you can experience the satisfaction of building and owning a boat tailored to your adventures.
Support for Everyone
Our mission is to make boat building accessible to everyone. We support beginners, families, schools, and community groups with guidance and instruction, ensuring a rewarding experience from construction to launch.
New Zealand Boat Building Tradition
Embrace New Zealand’s rich history of boat building by crafting your own vessel. Our kits are designed for amateurs, offering a meaningful and hands-on way to connect with this vibrant tradition.
Form and Float KitSet options
Kayak
$995.00
- Traditional design: 12 oz canvas over a timber frame.
- Ideal for coastal, moderate river, and lake conditions.
- Lightweight and easy to stow.
- Kit includes paddles and hardware.
- Optional hatches can be added.
- Build time: 20-25 hours.
Dinghy
$1095.00+ Additional Options
- Designed as a tender; suitable for light conditions.
- Family-friendly: Teaching young people boating skills.
- Lightweight: Easy to row and stow.
- Outboard option: Supports up to 2.5hp; planes smoothly.
- Customisable with hardware.
- Build time: 25-30 hours.
Catamaran 3.1 & 3.6
From $1995.00+ Additional Options
- Designed for coastal fishing and diving.
- Features 3 watertight chambers.
- Customisable with additional hatches and hardware.
- Compatible with 5-10hp outboard motors
- Comprehensive kit provided (except paint)
- Build time: 30-40 hours.
What is Form and Float
Founded by a lifelong boat enthusiast who has spent years around boats of all sizes—from 2.4-meter vessels to 13-meter launches—Form and Float is the culmination of a passion turned profession. With a wealth of self-taught knowledge and a deep love for the craft, our founder has retired from mainstream business to share his expertise with you through our bespoke kitsets.
Designed for ease of construction, our kits are perfect for amateurs. While some woodworking experience can be helpful, it’s not a requirement—just bring your enthusiasm and patience. Working with wood, a natural material, means every build will have its unique challenges and characteristics, but that’s part of the beauty of the process. Remember, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
We’re also committed to supporting community groups and schools. In certain circumstances, when you purchase one of our kits, we offer on-site instruction to guide your project from start to finish, whether you’re building a kayak, dinghy, or catamaran.
Browse Dinghy Extras
To maximise your boating enjoyment, consider purchasing additional extras such as custom oars, a high-quality paint kit, or even a small outboard motor, turning your dinghy into a more versatile and fun experience on the water.
Browse Catamaran Extras
Enhance your Catamaran experience by shopping for optional extras, such as custom hatches, additional storage compartments, and the amphibious three-wheel jockey, which not only increase the functionality but also add an extra layer of enjoyment for the whole family.
Ready to embark on your boat-building journey?
Dive in today and bring your dream craft to life with our easy-to-build kits. Don’t wait—order now and start creating a unique vessel that’s all your own!