They mention based on a surf ski? The New Zealand equivalent would be the Slingshot (glass) "designed" in Christchurch and "used" by Paddling Perfection in Auckland who then tweaked it a bit.

Some are definitely based on surf skis others or at least inspired by them. I know I read in one review that the Epic 18x is based on their V8 ski. You're definitely seeing more of these modern, multisport kayaks on the market. Comparing the profiles and hull shapes and you see marked similarities to skis. The product descriptions on the corporate websites even read like ones for skis.

[quote]. It is designed for a rudder though.[/quote]
Rudders are standard equipment in New Zealand, partly because it is windy and partly because Paul Caffyn on his circumnavigation of Australia, fitted an Australian designed rudder found it increased his daily distance by 10+%. That type is the common one round the world now.

From what I have read, Freya Hoffmeister had similar efficiency results on her expeditions.

I used to be very anti-rudder. I couldn't see adding complexity to a simple craft like a kayak. My rudderless Guillemot could keep up with my other paddling companions but I was doing constant corrective strokes. Like I said in a previous post, my feelings changed markedly after building and thus test paddled a run of race kayaks. Rudder systems do add weight and complexity but the trade off for paddling efficiency is marked, especially for long distance touring.