Mr Martin (49) gained a BSc (Hons) degree in biochemistry and a BSc in physiology from the University of Otago in the 1980s.
He was back at Otago University yesterday to give a guest lecture as part of the master of entrepreneurship programme at the university's School of Business.
The jet-pack idea began in 1981, when a bunch of young people, including Mr Martin, discussed finding a better form of transport during a late-night walk from a local hotel to a North Dunedin flat.
There had been much international interest in the jet-pack since it was unveiled to the world for the first time on July 29 last year, at America's Oshkosh Air Show in Wisconsin, he said in an interview yesterday.
"At the moment it's safe enough. We just strap it on and fly it around."
Mr Martin, who is managing director of the Martin Aircraft Company, said although the personalised flying machine was safe, he had been putting off prospective buyers until the "complete package" was developed.
He and his staff had been working to improve the machine's flyability, reliability, usability and safety.
"I think we can make this the world's safest vertical take-off and landing vehicle."
The jet-pack was likely to be sold commercially next year, but before then more flights were being made in Christchurch, refinements were being made and a rocket-deployed "ballistic parachute" was being developed to bring the machine safely back to Earth in an emergency.
Mr Martin said he had kept quiet for 27 years while he worked behind the scenes to make his jet-pack dream a reality.
"All my friends say I can't shut up now," he added with a smile.
