Hi Jillian,
I'm the builder of that West River 180. I built it in 2001 on my back porch when I lived at Waiheke, it is made from Giboon Ply (not Kauri unfortunately) with Okoume coaming and hatch surrounds. The onlay work (Orca's and Hammerheads) are Mahogany veneer. A bit more about it is on my site: http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/grantglazer/Kayak/DesignWR180.htm

The WR180 was a fantastic kayak! I since went on and built one of Nicks Greenland decked Night Herons and then a Bjorn Thomasson Najad (both strip built) and finally a Yost Sea Rover for rolling practice. With 3 other kayaks I wasn't using the WR180 so sold it to a guy who was buying it for a present for his wife. I did see it a couple more times over the following years I was on the island but never had a chance to talk to the paddler.

This post has made my day - not only is it great that the WR180 is still around, it looks like it is still giving you as much enjoyment as it gave me! I'm also very glad that she has ended up with somebody that is taking good care of her.

I've just brought the Kawhia Camping Ground (Sou-West of Hamilton) so if you are in the area please pop in.