Transport and Motoring | Pavlovich Coachlines
long haul
In for the
With the high failure rate for startup businesses, for any to survive further than corporate infancy is testament to the business acumen of its founders. And reaching corporate old-age is no mean feat in today’s marketplace — so a business history spanning more than 70 years goes beyond the tangible, as consumers don’t buy a brand, they buy into a story. The Pavlovich Coachlines story reaches beyond the present day, to encompass a colourful family history. From a small-scale school bus service to a highly sought after coach charter, it illustrates the company’s widely respected reputation for the safe and expedient transport of many thousands of passengers. From tour groups and conference transfers through to day trips and overnight charters, from an economy city bus to a five-star deluxe touring coach, Pavlovich Coachlines offers a broad range of buses and coaches, to meet an equally diverse range of services. It is the rich rural history entwined within the company’s culture which sets it aside. Marco and Minerva Pavlovich were raising their family in the farming district of Waikato, many kilometres from the local school. They recognised the need for safe and reliable school transport and M. Pavlovich and Sons Ltd was born. From those small beginnings in 1938, the company has developed a strong reputation
and the confidence to grow and diversify. In the 1960s M. Pavlovich and Sons were among the first to offer “package tour” holidays to the South Island by deluxe touring coach. The 1970s and 1980s became decades of growth and strengthened commitment to provide the best in tourism transportation. In the 1990s Ivan and Mary prudently re-consolidated the business during a difficult economic period and remained in the driving seat of the industry, steering it into the promise-filled 21st century. Family businesses make up the backbone of our business landscape and it takes a family with an emotional investment in what it’s doing to achieve great success. More than 70 years after its conception, Pavlovich Coachlines is now in the hands of second and third generations, Ivan Pavlovich (director) and Bernard Pavlovich (chief executive). Pavlovich Coaches senior driver Maurie Garton illustrates the company’s dedication. He “temporarily” joined the company and remains there 18 years later. “When I started there were three tour coaches and a school bus run — that was pretty much it. “Where the business is today is testament to Bernard’s drive and determination. He diversified into new markets, his work enabled us to branch out beyond the cyclical tourism industry, he has made the company what it is today.” Staying true to its origins, a bus fleet continues to operate in Hamilton, with the principal coach fleet based in Auckland and a satellite branch in Christchurch. The Urban Express division provides public bus services in the Auckland region.
Pavlovich Coachlines operates a fleet of 75 buses and coaches ranging from 21-seat to 53-seat capacity. The big brown buses stand out as they make their way around the country. In colour psychology brown represents steadfastness, reliability and commitment. With more than 70 years invested in the bus and coach industry, the Pavlovich coaches wear their brown sleeves well. In transport vernacular, Pavlovich are in business for the long haul.
Chief executive Bernard Pavlovich and director Ivan Pavlovich, responsible for steering the future direction of Pavlovich Coachlines. Behind the wheel is Maurie Garton, who has been with the company for 18 years
Pavlovich Coachlines 58 Carr Road Mt Roskill Auckland T (09) 620 5490 E sales@pavlovich.co.nz www.pavlovich.co.nz
— Advertising Feature
CLELAND HANCOX LIMITED
Cleland Hancox Limited is a progressive practice experienced in all aspects of business formation, management and development. We utilise the latest technology to ensure our clients success and prosperity. Our directors and senior team members are readily accessible to offer you the individual attention you deserve. We are dedicated to providing timely, accurate solutions tailored to suit individual needs. We will work alongside you with the aim of not only solving problems that arise, but helping you reach your financial goals. Proud to be advisors to Pavlovich Coachlines for more than 50 years Ray Hancox
Level 3, 18 London Street, Hamilton P. 07 838 2692 | F. 07 838 1667 www.clelandhancox.co.nz
Leean Bedwell
Independant Member of Walker Wayland Australasia Ltd
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Specialist in commercial and industrial insurance
Mike Lowe David Schollum Jason Robottom
Email: admin@lsj.co.nz Phone: 07 849 6881 Fax: 07 849 7121 Auckland Today | May/June 2010 | 41