Originally Posted by results may vary
...have often wondered why it hadn't been established earlier
It was. As a child in the 1960's I clearly remember the C180's and Grumman Widgeons of TAT/Southern Scenic/Mt Cook being a regular and active feature of an early QN waterfront scene. When Mt Cook sold out of waterborne ops (late 70's early 80's?) Waterwings Airways of Te Anau maintained a minor level of service to QN, although that was not the primary focus of the floats. The area was increasingly serviced on wheels by a variety of outfits.
Speaking personally now, I would love to see floats working QN regularly again and did follow the few reported developments with interest. However, If I may venture an opinion, i did question the airframe selection... a Beaver & a 206? Whilst both are "suitable", proven airframes, I doubt you could find noisier airframes for the intended services and therein probably lies the crux of the matter. In NZ it seems there is an increasingly rabid, restrictive PC influence. Whilst you & I know the jetski's can be noisier and certainly more persistent, it will always be the
perception of noise (particularly from a commercial operation rather than an essentially recreational activity) that draws the loudest howls of protest.
I can't help but wonder if a gas-turbine would have enjoyed wider community support?