Radiator August 2025 Issue

r o t a i Rad AUGUST 2025

(ALMOST) TOP GUN WHAT'S IN THE SIGHTS OF ACT'S MAVERICK DEPUTY PM? PLUS: THE GOOD OIL ON NCEA AND SURCHARGE CHANGES THE MTA MEMBER MAGAZINE

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MTA SECTOR REPORTS

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CE Comment

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Smoko Stumpers

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What you're telling us

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MTA staff stories: Too good to be true

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Political Comment

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Road Test: GMW Tank 300 Ultra Diesel

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Blast from the Past

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Fuel & Heavy Vehicle: Fuel up on innovation at forum

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Advocacy: NCEA's demise good new for trades

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Repairer: First look: Kia Tasman ute

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Dealer: Dreamers and disruptors - and what they teach us

MTA's tribute to Rick Murrell

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Collision Repair: A good game has a good referee

MTA standards power transformation

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HR Advice: Conduct conundrum

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Training and Development: Micro-credentials

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Mediation: Repair warranties

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Market stats: July 2025

FEATURES

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Seymour revs up

Sustainability: From fenders to fences Penrose's German connection Fiji for Auto Super Shoppes

FRONT COVER

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COVER STORY Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour opens up to Radiator about issues facing the automotive industry - and his homemade car.

Photo credit: Gerald Rillstone

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Radiator AUGUST 2025

(ALMOST) TOP GUN WHAT'S IN THE SIGHTS OF ACT'S MAVERICK DEPUTY PM?

Radiator Editor Gerald Rillstone 027 252 3229 gerald.rillstone@mta.org.nz Postal address PO Box 9244, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 Physical address Level 5, AIA House 34 Manners Street, Wellington 6011 E: mta@mta.org.nz W: www.mta.org.nz Printing & Production Vertia, Wellington Mailhouse Orange Box, Wellington

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

REGULARS

Radiator Magazine ISSN 1179-7800 The Motor Trade Association (Inc) (MTA) is not responsible for statements, opinions or factual matters published in Radiator magazine, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of MTA, its Board of Directors or its advisory/specialty committees, unless expressly so stated, and does not endorse advertisers.

Radiator magazine is available free to all members of MTA. Information on products and services contained in the editorial and advertising pages of this magazine is published as a service and no responsibility will be taken for inaccurate information.

Radiator magazine does not imply the endorsement of any product or service.

The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising and editorial at any stage.

Copyright: No part of Radiator magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher.

PLUS: THE GOOD OIL ON NCEA AND SURCHARGE CHANGES THE MTA MEMBER MAGAZINE

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CE COMMENT

Surcharge ban presents choice and change The Government’s decision last month to remove the ability for businesses to levy surcharges on card payments has caused consternation and some confusion in the business world.

Our teams have spoken to a number of members wanting to know exactly what it means for their business.

In short, what it means is up to you, and will largely depend upon the way you choose to respond.

So what’s changing?

From mid-2026, the Government will be banning surcharges at the point of sale when customers pay using credit cards, debit cards, and contactless methods – to name a few. This means you will no longer be allowed to add extra fees at the checkout just because a customer chooses to pay by card.

What used to be the customer’s cost just became a business

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cost – at least in theory. Which might seem harsh in the current economic climate – but only if you choose to absorb the cost without action.

The change is motivated by pricing transparency for consumers, and that’s not a bad thing. Unexpected fees at checkout are never welcome, however justified, and irrespective of whatever other payment options people have to avoid them. The Government wants to ensure that the price displayed is the price paid.

As consumers I think we’re all sick of bits of paper sellotaped on to eftpos terminals, with a 3.5% the fee at the local dairy, 1.5% at a restaurant, or 2.1% at a hotel – with no rhyme, reason, or consistency. Whether fair or not, it feels disingenuous.

In some ways, banks and interchange providers have played a masterstroke here.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

lee.marshall@mta.org.nz

Allow and facilitate businesses to pass on charges, so acceptance of the method goes up and people become accustomed to paying this way. Then remove consumer charges, meaning they now have no reason to pay a different way.

These changes will mean all businesses should expect an increase in the volume of transactions through currently levied methods. And it would take a brave business to refuse to accept credit and PayWave transactions nowadays.

As such, we will be asking government what they’re doing to mandate transparency on how providers determine their charging structure. When it comes to surcharges, there is a huge range but little regulation.

Some of you may be understandably concerned that this change will hurt your business, especially if you’re

already dealing with narrow to non-existent margins in a tough economic climate.

The good news is that apparently, this reform is paired with a reduction in interchange fees – the fees banks charge businesses when customers pay by card.

So, while businesses can’t pass these costs directly to customers anymore, the actual cost of accepting card payments should reduce, though by a yet to be determined margin.

Could this be inflationary?

Effectively you have a choice.

The obvious businesses response is to bake the costs into pricing.

On the other hand, is there more long-term gain by absorbing the costs and trying to gain a price advantage over your competition?

In any case, you’d probably want to ask your bank or interchange provider to sharpen the pencil and justify their costs. Maybe even see what options exist in market. And that’s not a bad thing.

In the end, it’s your choice. We can’t and won’t tell you how to respond, and there isn’t a right answer anyway.

Payment technology is a rapidly evolving space, and one well worth staying abreast of. The ways that people pay and growing and changing.

Are your current payment options limiting your market?

We know from the rapid uptake of our MTA member special Afterpay rate that the space is changing fast. A number of you have asked if AfterPay is affected by the change – it isn’t, to be clear. At least that’s one less thing to worry about.

So ask yourself, are your current fees fair? When was the last time you went to market for a payment services provider? Are your current payment options limiting your market? If nothing else, let this be an opportunity to make sure you’re up to speed.

Noho ora mai; Lee Marshall

Join the MTA Board Nominations for three director positions on the MTA Board will open soon.

This is an exciting time to join the Board. MTA is committed to adding even greater value for membership, and cementing MTA’s position as the leading voice for the automotive industry.

The Board plays an important role in MTA’s strategic future.

Nominations from all members are welcome. MTA welcomes diversity of experience, ideas and backgrounds on the Board.

Keep an eye on Toolbox and Friday emails for more information about the elections, including how members can vote. Voting will be conducted online, with results announced at the Annual General Meeting in November.

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It took nine years to complete while at university but the Locost sports car still provides a thrilling driving experience.

Seymour revs up: on education, driver licences and red tape David Seymour’s a maverick.

From Dancing with the Stars to driving a Land Rover up the steps of Parliament, the guy does it his way.

He also built his first car from scratch as a 15-year-old, graduated as an electrical engineer, and loves cars as much as Tina from Turners.

So during recess – and a brief stint as acting Prime Minister – Radiator got the ACT supremo’s take on some issues facing the automotive industry.

One major recent issue for service station members has been whether fuel theft from their sites would be included in the Government’s proposed infringement fee regime, whereby offenders are served with a fine for stealing goods from a retailer.

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MTA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, arguing that it is only fair and appropriate that the infringement fees cover fuel theft as well as stealing from on-site stores.

There is a long way to go with the new penalties, but Seymour’s view is encouraging.

“Although the final wording still needs to be approved by Cabinet before the Bill’s introduced, we anticipate that it would count because service stations are fuel retailers, meaning fuel theft would be covered.”

Heartening indeed, and we will keep members updated on progress.

Next, the topical issue of education.

“Apprenticeship Boost is a good

start, [but] I have long been in favour of every person getting an education savings account. The Government puts some money in and then there is the choice between vocational training or academic training,” he says.

“A lot of young people are coming out disillusioned that their very expensive [university] degrees have not prepared them the way they thought.

“It is a big policy shift, but one of the most useful things we could do is get rid of the hidden bias towards academic education that may not be that valuable.”

In other words: promote trades and apprenticeships at least equally with university. A view many members will support.

Although there is a sense of irony that Seymour holds two degrees

Left: ACT patriarch David Seymour takes time out from his day job as Deputy Prime Minister.

Photo: Gerald Rillstone

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Having built the car from scratch, David still enjoys the chance to work on it.

from Auckland University.

Woke banking Seymour blames earlier administrations for so-called ‘woke banking’ where some banks are refusing to lend to service stations for environmental reasons.

“The issue is that Governments have made real threats against the fuel industry. It’s difficult to get credit for any industry that politicians threaten. If we really want banks to lend to the fuel industry at competitive rates, we need to stop threatening the industry.”

MTA has met with Energy Minister Shane Jones on this issue, and made members’ feelings and concerns clear. We are confident MTA has been heard and Government has been clear on its opposition to banks’ policy that unfairly penalises legally-trading businesses.

And staying with environmental matters, Government should avoid favouring electric or ICE vehicles, he says.

“We have removed subsidies from EVs and applied Road User

Chargers, and that is how it should be. If a new technology uses less resources and it is good for the environment, chances are it is going to be cheaper, and people will use it anyway.

“As soon as politicians try and pick winners the taxpayer is going to lose money, because if politicians knew how to invest, they wouldn’t be politicians, they would be rich.”

Car control Given his slash-and-burn approach to bureaucracy, the ACT leader’s support for a proposed change to one practical driving test is no surprise.

“There should be more teaching of car control but having two tests wasn’t achieving that. The driving tests we have are designed for a world where no one ever loses traction and unfortunately for some people losing traction is the last thing they will do in their life.”

For the record, MTA and VTNZ’s position is that two practical tests provide the best preparation and training for new drivers. This is supported by the lift in pass rate between the two tests. However, if

Fast Facts Name: David Breen Seymour Born: Palmerston North Age: 42 Electorate: Epsom MP since: 2014 Education: University of Auckland. Degrees in electrical engineering and philosophy.

the Government proceeds with its plan, then far more comprehensive driver training will be needed.

On that note, Seymour’s also quick to support higher speed limits.

“Come on, the last time the speed limits changed was in 1986 from 80 to 100 and when you think how much safer cars are now, we should be able to have another 20 [kmh].”

without ACT, he says, “it certainly hasn’t gone as far as ACT would go.

“The fact that we still have 60,000 public servants shows we are not getting the results.”

And at the end of our chat there’s a message for members who think there is too much red tape in our industry.

“I always welcome feedback, especially as Minister for Regulation. The Ministry for Regulation’s Red Tape Tipline is a great place to send tips about red tape, and we’ll fix them. For other issues you can always get in touch, and I’ll do my best to help.”

Locost and Liam Lawson As a lifelong fan of Formula 1, David Seymour says the automotive industry would be at the top of his list if he ever changed careers.

“I wouldn’t be a race driver because I am too uncoordinated, I would love to be a mechanic, but I did train as an electrical engineer, so I guess I would be doing that.”

Tucked away in the political petrolhead’s garage is a Locost, which

Of all the things he’s done in life building the Locost has been the most enjoyable.

looks like a Lotus 7, which he built over nine years.

“In the mid-90’s a guy called Ron Champion wrote a book, Build Your Own Sports Car, for as little as two hundred and fifty pounds and I should have read more carefully - ‘as little as’.

“Mine cost a bit more than that but of all the things I have done in my life it is one of the things I have most enjoyed.”

The WoF has just expired, and Seymour hasn’t had the time to work

on it since the election, but there is no doubt he will.

“I think a lot of guys, and girls for that matter, have a hobby that gets their brain in synch with a physical task. For some people it’s embroidery for me it’s cars.”

He’s also a Liam Lawson fan, although Ferraris are a firm favourite when it comes to cars.

“Red Bull has kept me awake many times more than necessary and now they have got Liam I guess I can switch allegiance.”

Red tape ACT’s mantra is less Government spending, less tax and less regulation, and while the coalition has gone further than it would have It currently has an expired WoF but won’t take much to get it back on the road.

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Rick (circled) with the 2010 MTA Board. Sturrock is on Rick's right.

MTA pays tribute to former President Rick Murrell Like many others in our industry, MTA was greatly saddened by the death of former MTA President Rick Murrell last month. President Sturrock Saunders, a friend and former colleague on the MTA Board, paid tribute to Rick at his funeral. His speech is reprinted below.

Tēnā koutou katoa.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is an honour to be able to speak today acknowledging the loss of Rick and the outstanding contribution he made to the New Zealand motor industry.

Today I am joined by three MTA immediate past-presidents as a mark of respect to Rick, Andrea, the Murrell family, business partners, workmates and you, his great friends, here today.

I will firstly talk about Rick’s stellar involvement in two motor industry national associations – firstly the Motor Vehicle Dealers Institute or MVDI and then followed by MTA. Rick couldn’t resist getting stuck into auto industry issues, especially if he believed it would

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

positively impact others. This altruistic view kept him incredibly busy in an industry that was, and continues to be, in a state of constant change.

In the 1990s Rick was actively involved in Invercargill MVDI branch activities and soon became involved in the national committee advocating on used vehicles matters. Following this he had a stint on the National Board prior to MVDI merging with MTA in the early 2000s.

It was logical that Rick would then get involved in MTA, which represented a vast array of industry sectors, including automotive repairs, fuel, auto electrical, collision repair, and new and used vehicles

Left: Rick Murrell was a legend in the deep south.

Inset: Sturrock Saunders speaks at Rick's farewell

Sturrock Saunders.

sales. Lots of new issues, lots of demands, and he was the right man for the job.

We had all heard about this guy from Southland who was elected to the MTA Board of Directors, and I remember meeting him in person – the smile, the energy and the enthusiasm all added up to one charismatic guy on a mission!

Rick spent seven years on the MTA Board of Directors from 2005 to 2012, with two years in the member-elected role of MTA

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President from 2010 to 2012.

I can only imagine his business partner Gary and his brother Bobby shaking their heads as Rick headed off to Wellington for yet another board meeting.

For those of us lucky enough to share a board table with Rick, we observed a natural leader, and a good listener who was deeply determined and possessed a strong, enquiring intellect.

Rick was really passionate about sticking up for the small guy. I remember him being so proud that whether you are a multinational with hundreds of staff or a small two-person workshop, as an MTA member you have access to the same advice, services, promotions and advocacy work.

Not every campaign MTA got involved in turned out the way it was intended. Rick as MTA President led a passionate campaign on behalf of MTA’s

4,500 business owner members on the imbalance of power between distributors and dealers.

This was a big stoush held in Auckland, and to summarise the outcome – it was suboptimal.

Having a beer to commiserate later that evening, Rick gathered the other directors into a huddle and shared his summary of the big stoush, which was, “Well that was a f*cken shambles!” Of course, this was delivered with a laugh, but we all knew he would find another way, another day to keep pushing – it was not over!

My previous beer comment is a perfect segue into another one of Rick’s superpowers: he was an expert at not only working hard but also playing hard! Rick would always light up a room; he loved a yarn and a beer with colleagues and mates, his charisma and storytelling were legendary. I looked forward to his stories of crayfishing, the farm in the Catlins, trips to buy cars with mates in Japan, the Warriors

Smoko Stumpers

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continues to be widely accepted and has the added benefit of no expiry date.

Our friendly Gift Team can assist you with changeover to the Voucher product and can be contacted on orders@mta.org. nz or via the 0800 00 11 44. OR simply order via the MTA Member website.

Should this change cause any inconvenience the team are here to assist however we can to ensure a smooth changeover.

What is changing •MTA Gift Cards will not be

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

1. What is the average age of vehicles on NZ roads - 10, 12 or 14 years?

Ratings:

2. Who has more Bathurst wins, Ford or Holden?

1/5: Put your L plates back on.

Rick Murrell - natural leader.

2/5: Hit the books, rookie.

results, the charity boxing matches that he was always going to win, and anything to do with family.

On behalf of the wider motor industry family, we salute you, Rick, and thank you for your outstanding contribution to the New Zealand motor industry, but more importantly for being uniquely you, Legend … we will miss you.

No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tatou katoa.

3/5: Middle of the road.

3. In what Nascar race do winners celebrate with a drink of milk?

4/5: Close but no cigar.

5/5: Congratulations, you’ve outrun The Chaser.

available for sale from August 1st, 2025. The platform will be modified to decline all new loads and activations.

What is not changing •MTA Gift Cards already loaded and unexpired before the changeover date will continue to be redeemable and the balance checker will continue to operate.

•The above decision does NOT affect the Gift Voucher product MTA Paper Gift Voucher will continue to be available.

4. Who manufactures the Shark ute?

5. Is a driver licence a legal form of ID for buying fireworks?

Answers on page 56 .

Automotive events 2025 Wellington - Hot Rodders Breakfast

IMPORTANT NOTICE: MTA Gift Cards discontinued MTA’s Gift Cards (Plastic Card) were withdrawn from sale as of August 1st, 2025.

Due to a variety of compounding reasons, the product has ceased to be commercially viable. MTA is committed to providing value for members and will therefore concentrate resources on other ventures that provide a greater benefit to the broad membership.

Redemption of cards activated prior to this date are not affected. They will continue to be redeemable until their expiry.

We note the MTA Gift Voucher

Test your knowledge with our five-minute monthly motoring quiz.

Wellington Car Museum and Cafe.1st Sunday of Every Month! Buffet Style from 8.30 am till 9.30 am. Bring your Hot Rod, Classic or Muscle Car. Hang out with likeminded people.

The Mangakino Lake Hop 2025 After a successful event in 2024 Mangakino Lake Hop is back for its seventh year. Save the date. Sat, 27 September 2025 at 10:00 am, Lake Road, Kinleith, Tokoroa

Auckland - Wheels for Kids Performance Car Show Sunday 12th October! Go Media Stadium, Gate E, Maurice Rd, Penrose. 10am - 2pm. $5 entry per adult, under 12s free or $5 per show vehicle.

V8’s….race cars, muscle cars, classics, special interest cars needed…register NOW! Sunday October 12, 10am to 2pm. Gate E 52, Maurice Road Penrose. Only $5 per car on the day.

Live music, bar, food, trade stalls, flash tattoos, prizes, giveaways, raffles, Bathurst

on the big screen and following our show carry on the day at Ace Motorsport who offer go karts and simulators!

Rotorua Vintage and Veteran Car Club - 44th Central North Island Car Show and Swap Meet Sunday July 13th, Paradise Valley Raceway. 7am to 2pm. Featuring vintage, classic and muscle cars. Hundreds of vendors with items of interest to all collectors of cars.

Otago - Sliding Designs Girls Burnout Competition 6th and 7th of September in Lawrence at the Gymkhana Club Grounds This will be open to the public/spectators Skid demos, stalls, food vendors and more

Waimakariri - Hotrods to Fernside School Fair Live band, car show and a big boot sale Starts at 10am Fernside School. 19th October, 285 Oroarkes Road, Fernside

11am from the Clubrooms, ending at Squeaks with a band n party! Camping available onsite, please email Rach on whakatanercclub@gmail.com to book your spot as there are limited spaces.

Northland- Cruz’n The Bayz

Cruz'n the Bayz has grown over three years, and many have enjoyed this fantastic event is open for ticketing now so everyone can plan for Cruz'n the Bayz 2026.Over 4 days cruise Northland with like-minded classic/hot rod/ muscle car and bike enthusiasts from all over Aotearoa NZ. The cruise will travel through our local communities who are supporting the event with music/entertainment, local cuisine and welcoming celebrations. Cruising from Paihia daily to surrounding townships.

Thu 5 Mar 2026–Sun 8 Mar 2026, 8:00am–10:00pm Ala Moana Motel in Paihia have come on board with an Earlybird 3 nights' free accommodation during the 2026 event.

Register for Cruz'n the Bayz at Eventfinda between 1st May to 1st October and you're in the draw. Call 0800 BUY TIX (289 849)

Whakatane Rod and Custom Inc Spring Fling is locked in! October 4th,

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“I did my apprenticeship in 1987 and started the business in 2002 in the building which was originally the Orix grooming bay. There was nothing here, no hoist, but there was a pit and after three months I had enough money to buy a couple of hoists,” Holmes says.

“There is no trick to it. Ninety-nine percent of my business is repeat business and it’s founded on honest good service, charging a fair price, quality and treating everyone how I want to be treated.”

It’s no surprise the business spans three generations of customers.

“Belonging to MTA and Capricorn

are some of the best things you can do in business.”

Planned succession His son Zuck dropped out of school when he was 16, and to put him on the right path Holmes had him sign up for an automotive apprenticeship, bought him into the business and showed him the ropes.

“He is 22 now working in Tauranga at Tauranga Diesel learning to work on diesel engines, it is a huge learning curve and a brilliant skill for him to have.

“I told him to do that for three or four years and then he can come

back and buy the business off me and I will be a part time dude.

“That’s our succession plan, I have been teaching him about the business over the years and when he comes back, we will sit down and work out a price.”

Being successful and having a business to pass on has come from working in the business and on the business, he says. He’s a working boss on the floor once the paperwork is all done and see that as the best way to survive in this business.

“We have come a long way, and I am proud of it.”

HT Automotive staff ready for the future, apprentice Semisi Taufoou, Holmes Tu’inukuafe and mechanic Jacques Van Zyl.

Driven to improve: MTA standards power transformation With the MTA brand standing for the best in the automotive industry, members need to meet MTA’s strict standards.

Part of the assessment are the physical site expectations – roadside and external appearance, reception and customer areas, work areas and staff presentation.

For MTA member Holmes Tu’inukuafe of HT Automotive Repairs, a visit from MTA and a gentle suggestion that he needed to lift his game to meet standards was the inspiration for a makeover.

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“I am very, very happy and very proud of it and I should have done it years ago. I am glad I did it now because before we repainted it the interior was dark green and all quite dark but now the white paint makes the place look brighter and bigger,” he says.

Holmes has owned the business in the heart of Manukau, Auckland, for 20 years.

It has thrived from day one, but with success came a sixday working week and little time to keep ahead of general maintenance. Holmes freely admits the business was overdue for

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

a freshen up – which he’s now completed.

“It is really nice, and it encourages us all to keep the workshop tidy.”

Previously there was no waiting area either, so he did a deal with a customer who is a builder and had an office and reception area built in exchange for fixing his wife’s car.

Fair price Holmes started the business after training on European and Japanese brands and says from day one the business has kept him busy.

A change to a lighter colour has made a world of difference to the workshop.

A new office and reception area are all part of the improvements to meet MTA standards.

Why standards matter There is a good reason to be proud of achieving MTA standards.

A recent survey is proof of the power of the blue badge, it revealed more motorists associate MTA and its members with industry leadership, professionalism and trustworthiness.

Members are increasingly recognised for being backed by a reputable organisation. When choosing a service provider,

reliability, trust and high standards of workmanship remain the top motivators for motorists opting for MTA members. Additional factors such as safety and a code of ethics continue to play a role in decision-making. This translates into greater confidence in the quality of products and services offered by MTA members.

The gap in positioning between members and non-members has

widened - their work is seen as more prone to issues, contributing to a decline in perceived value for money.

The MTA logo remains a powerful visual cue driving brand recognition. A multi-channel communications approach spanning online, member sites, websites, streaming platforms, radio and billboards, continues to effectively showcase the benefits of choosing MTA.

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Website and digital marketing solutions

OurAuto Digital are automotive experts with a team of web designers, content specialists, SEO experts, graphic designers, videographers and social media marketers that focus on connecting customers with your business. Our digital marketing services are both comprehensive and responsive to your needs.

The OurAuto Diagnostic tool is easy to use and has class-leading automotive fault-technology software enabled, including seamless integration with VACC MotorTech, providing auto-detection, top range health reports and monthly updates. The Diagnostic Tool is available on a convenient monthly subscription plan.

Automotive information at your fingertips

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

An affordable scan tool for your business

VACC MotorTech brings together the extensive online and physical repair, service and diagnostic information resources available from VACC with the global might of Haynes Publishing group, resulting in over 150 years, experience assisting the industry to repair motor vehicles.

is a proud partner of the Blackfern Co-Operative

Radiator Magazine - August 2025 0800 485 122 19 • ourauto.co.nz

Every month we reply to members’ questions and comments drawn from conversations with the MTA team. Do you need advice or an answer on something? Radiator would love to hear from you. Please email simon.bradwell@mta.org.nz.

MTA was saddened to hear of the passing of Katie Iti last month after contracting flu. Katie was a promising drag racer who featured in the May issue of Radiator. As well as being a talented driver, online tributes have made mention of Katie’s kindness and popularity, and that she was loved by everyone. We send our sincere condolences to Katie’s father Shayne and all whanau and friends Katie was part of the MTA family through member business Overbridge Service Centre Lower Hutt, owned by Matt and Stacey Crooks, where Shayne is part of the Overbridge team.

have an issue, they think it is something we have done.

A good way to prevent this is to show the customer what needs topping up – eg if it’s the oil that needs topping up, show them the dipstick and let them decide, and the same with the water level.

Doing this prevents any blame being put on your staff and it may even get you some extra business.

I am keen to be part of the bumper repurposing scheme – how do I get involved?

The project launched in late March 2025, starting with the collection of waste bumpers and inner guard liners from the southern and eastern suburbs of Auckland.

This will be followed by Hamilton, New Plymouth, and the northern and western suburbs of Auckland. The programme will roll out across the North Island in late 2025 and early 2026, reaching the South Island by mid-2026.

Members will be informed as the project reaches their respective regions.

MTA member benefits and offers Make the most of your membership and take advantage of the value on offer from our business partners. For more information visit the MTA Toolbox or give us a call on 0800 00 11 44.

Afterpay

Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Offer Afterpay at a special MTA rate and attract more customers with Buy Now Pay Later convenience.

We offer tools that help your business stay compliant and safe. Support is available for members and their staff dealing with life’s challenges.

ASURE Accommodation 10 percent off 40 ASURE Accommodation Group properties throughout New Zealand.

AUXO Software Increase profits with leading comprehensive solutions for automotive dealers and workshops.

Boost Ready-made employee benefits package in a simple phone app.

Cardlink Save thousands with transaction fee discounts for Service Stations.

DebtorInfo

MTA welcomes new members

As a service station owner, I have noticed an increase in complaints from customers who will accuse us of damaging their vehicles if they fill their vehicle up with water or oil, and soon after, if they

MTA welcomes recently joined members as we motor on into the future. We've been supporting members for over 100 years of motoring and with the industry and technology changing rapidly, MTA is the organisation who understands and stands beside you. As an MTA member, you have become part of our community of specialist automotive professionals from all sectors of industry.

Our standards are high, and that’s why Kiwi motorists look for the MTA brand. It's a brand they can trust.

Volt Vehicles Ltd, Northcote, Auckland.

Steve’s Tyre Service & Auto Care, Levin.

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

21

Many MTA staff members love vehicles as much as you do, and have a story to tell about them.

This month Radiator editor Gerald Rillstone.

I wasn’t looking to own a MK1 Cortina, but one was offered to me as part of a swap for a 1984 Telstar GL I owned, and along with it came a similar but up market Telstar TX 5.

A friend of a friend owned the Cortina along with the TX5, which was burning enough oil to be a worry, and he wanted shot of it and suggested a swap of my baby poo yellow Telstar for both cars and $900 to sweeten the deal.

The Cortina hadn’t been driven for a few years, but a bit of gas in the tank and good old fashioned choke and it purred into life.

I took a punt and did the deal, the brakes worked so I drove it home.

It got a Wof with a new exhaust the only thing it needed and it turned out to be a great car, tidy underneath, little to no rust, which was unusual and the smokie TX 5 also ran well for quite a few years.

I was working in Christchurch at the time and summer had arrived so with a new WoF and exhaust on the Cortina I was off to the beach and promptly got it stuck in the sand just after the I had set up to take a photo of my soon to be wife and I.

Although a good reliable car the chance to swap the Telstar for a classic was too tempting.

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Gerald Rillstone

It was a picnic never forgotten and a little embarrassing on a date, but it was easy enough for the two of us to get it moving again and it turned out to be a mighty little car.

I drove it all around Canterbury and shipped to Wellington and later sold it for $900 three years later.

The TX5 carried on until it was sold for $600 still running and burning oil.

It was it was a rare moment in life that I actually made some money on a car deal.

At the beach in Canterbury around 1998.

Sweet 16?

Vote age change beckons Many members will have seen that the UK Government has decided to lower the voting age to 16 from the next election.

On the face of it, this is an unexpectedly progressive move that puts the UK amongst a small number of strange bedfellows like Brazil and Austria.

“Old enough to go out to work, old enough to pay taxes," Prime Minister Keir Starmer explained as part of his rationale for giving teens the vote.

Fair enough you might say, leaving aside arguments that those same voters won’t be able to marry or buy a lottery ticket.

But will they make a huge difference? Pundits in the UK say not. The percentage of new voters will be small – 2% - and many won’t be arsed getting down to the polling booth. Well, it’s hard enough to get them to tidy their room.

So, can we expect similar reform here?

Absolutely, positively 100%. At some stage New Zealand will follow suit. It won’t happen for a while, but it will come.

The Government that introduces the change will make a lot of blather

about the youth of the country deserving a say in its future. But in reality, the Government of the day will be hoping the thousands of new voters show their gratitude for their new emancipation at the polls and vote for their generous benefactors, thereby keeping them in power.

Surely that’s a bit conspiracy theorist? Er no. Cast your mind back to 1999 when the National Government lowered the drinking age from 20 to 18.

Said Prime Minister Jenny Shipley in May 1999: “Binge drinking at booze barns is a thing of the past.

We now have a very sophisticated and exciting café culture that is enjoyed by families and individuals throughout New Zealand.”

One is tempted to add a large LOL at this point.

Anyway it didn’t work. No amount of grateful voters in their late teens soon to be enjoying the nation’s sophisticated and exciting café culture could save National from getting dumped six months later.

Labour’s made blatant plays for the youth vote too. Remember how Labour promised three years’ fees free study before winning power in 2017, only to water it down to one year while in office?

POLITICAL COMMENT

STAFF STORY

Too good to be true

Simon Bradwell

Back to the future. When the change to the voting age does come, it will have a greater impact here than the UK. Some might say 16 is too young to be informed on political issues.

But if we restricted voting only to informed adults, that would probably rule out 95% of the country.

Young people here are engaged in political issues. This is an anecdotal observation, but you only have to look at climate change and Treaty protests for confirmation.

But will they be drawn to traditional and middle-ground parties Labour and National? More likely they will be attracted to the extremes on both sides of the political spectrum.

Because to generalise grossly, that is how teenagers tend to think – it’s either awesome or it’s crap.

The addition of teenage voters will add a new dimension to our politics. Just don’t ask them to tidy their room.

•Simon Bradwell is MTA’s Head of Communications. As a journalist, he covered several general elections with TVNZ, Sunday News and Reuters. The opinions expressed in this column are his own.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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MTA’s bumper repurposing programme gains national attention on the 6pm news.

and as we grow, we are learning and tweaking the collection process to make it more efficient.”

And Grant has a target he wants to meet starting with Taranaki: He aims to prevent every bumper in the region from going to landfill.

“That is step one and from what we have learned from doing it in Taranaki, will enable us to pivot and do it in areas like the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

“I am confident I can do it. We have brokers and collection areas throughout the region.”

In some areas around the country Grant and Larry are looking to utilise chippers to make the whole process more viable.

“The chipper will help when we set up in the South Island and the bumpers will be chipped in to a container that can hold around five cages worth of chipped product,” Grant says.

With each cage capable of holding around 50-60 bumpers it will see around 250 bumpers, once chipped, per container and that will help in maintaining transport and repurposing costs outside of the major regions.

“Product from the South Island could be suitable for recycling at Future Post’s plant in Blenheim,” Larry says.

Joining up Members who are in areas of the country not currently serviced by the Bumper Re-purposing programme and want to be part of it can get in touch

with Larry or Grant and fill out the required forms.

“Once members have committed to the programme and we have the paperwork we can start planning the collection routes and get things underway,” Grant says.

“We are keen to cover the majority of the country and where there is interest, we will go.”

Savings to be made There are two different sizes when it comes to the cages. The large of the two is $540 plus GST and for the half size, $270 plus GST and without going deep into the maths around cost, Grant says it is costing members around nine dollars a bumper to have them collected and re-purposed.

From fenders to fences: bumper recycling well underway More than 20 tonnes of plastic bumpers and guard liners have been diverted from landfill to be recycled since the launch of MTA’s plastic2eco bumper repurposing programme.

A majority of the bumpers are being repurposed into garden sleepers and fence posts, and some will be used as fuel for the Golden Bay Cement furnace.

And the number is set to grow as more members come on board with the scheme.

MTA’s Larry Fallowfield and MTA member Grant Rollo from New Plymouth company Relco8 and are the driving force behind getting the project and are rapt with progress so far.

“We have 14 cages out already in Auckland, Waikato and Taranaki and we have another 16 half cages to go out into those areas,” Grant says.

“The next step is the Bay of Plenty in the next few weeks.

“We are getting the process sorted

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Metal is a big concern and can cause problems in the process and needs to be removed before bumpers are sent to be repurposed.

“There is a saving to be made for members, they will have less going to landfill and when you are talking bumpers they can take up a lot of space in a skip bin,” Grant says.

Grant Rollo (right, with brother Paul) from New Plymouth company Relco8 who supply and transport the bumper cages.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Metal detection Metal left on bumpers to be recycled is one of the biggest potential problems. It can damage the machinery used in the chipping process and the end user won’t take it, so it is important they are metal free when loaded in the cage.

“The biggest concern I have got is metal parts being left on the bumpers and it is up to members to make sure they have been removed.

“Repercussions from having metal still on the bumpers can be quite huge, it

Grant and Larry are looking to utilise chippers to make the whole process more viable.

can damage the plant, and it taints the product.”

Metal detectors are being used to make sure there are no problems, but if there is metal on the bumpers it comes at a cost to members.

“The first time it happens we bundle it up and take it back to them and that is a learning experience, the second time there is a $50 charge and we provide some training and after that it goes up to $150 and that is the fairest way of doing it,” Grant says.

“I don’t want to charge for it, but the job needs to be done properly.”

For members wanting to join the scheme contact: larry.fallowfield@ mta.org.nz The finished repurposed product, garden sleepers.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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It’s all about the quality of workmanship and preventative maintenance for European specialist Saravan Beeramathy.

Achtung, baby! Penrose’s German connection Right amongst the hustle and bustle of Penrose’s industrial area is a little bit of Europe.

SB European is a homegrown repair shop, but as the name suggests, one built out of a passion for European motors – especially Volkswagens and Audis.

It belongs to hard-working MTA members Saravan and Vivian Beeramathy, and for Saravan, it’s the realisation of a long-held dream.

“I trained in my Dad’s restoration shop and loved working on Jaguars and other high-end brands,” he says.

Saravan has in-depth experience of working on the German marques and is so knowledgeable and passionate that he’s even developed service guides so Nothing but the best for European cars, Rove oil manufactured in Germany is a new strand to the business and will be looked after by Vivian.

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

customers get the best experience out of owning their car.

“How I structure it is we don’t just do an oil change. When I do a service, we do an oil and filter change and a full inspection.

“I make a list of what I think should be done now, what should be done in three or six months and what should be done at the next service.

“I tell the clients I don’t want to see them more than once a year.”

Saravan founded the business eight years ago after 14 years as workshop foreman for MTA member and fellow German parts and repair specialist Qualitat.

“I was a Qualitat a very long time. I wasn’t getting any younger, so I got started working out of our single garage at home,” Saravan says.

Once he’d built a steady customer base he moved the business to a shared space in Newmarket, became an MTA member and expanded the workshop to take over the whole site.

But just as he was getting his dream workshop in order the site was earmarked for redevelopment.

“We essentially started the business three times by the time we got to Penrose,” he says.

“The floor had to be ground back because it had been a car grooming business and there was so much silicon on the concrete the paint wouldn’t stick.”

Vivian was a preschool teacher for 20 years and joined the business to help out with the paper work initially, before her role expanded to office manager.

“I manage the phone calls and the bookings while Saravan looks after quotes and runs the workshop,” Vivian says.

Staff struggles But an ongoing struggle for the blossoming business is finding staff; they currently have one apprentice,

are looking for another and became accredited to bring in mechanics from offshore.

They recruited three but only one turned out to be suitable.

“Two of the overseas recruits gave us the right qualifications when the applied, but when they came in, they couldn’t do the job,” Vivian says.

“It was a long process a real hassle.”

The third overseas recruit was very

good, Saravan says, but decided to head back to Dubai because his wife couldn’t find employment – so the search for staff continues.

Saravan has even put together custom training modules which gives apprentices more detailed training than they receive through current modules.

But he hasn’t be able to find the right person out of the hundreds of CVs that he receives, he says not one has a genuine love for cars.

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closure of the trade displays which saw generous giveaways from exhibitors totalling over $20,000, Stephen says.

Thanks to Repco, members strapped in for an adrenaline-

fueled day at Highlands Motorsport Park. Meanwhile, BNT hosted a more relaxed group at Gibbston Valley Winery, for lunch, wine tasting, and cave tours.

The hotel ballroom was later

transformed for the Snowball Summit Awards evening function.

•Anyone interested in more information can contact: admin@ supershoppes.co.nz

The conference ‘Round Table’ discussions are a great way for workshop owners to share ideas and help each other.

Next stop Fiji for Auto Super Shoppes Auto Super Shoppes is planning to hold its next conference in Fiji, after holding the annual event in Queenstown this year.

Work is already underway on the conference, to be held in June 2026, General Manager Stephen Sylvester says.

“Members can expect another world-class experience,” Stephen says.

This year’s conference was held from June 19–21 and brought together nearly 240 attendees from across New Zealand.

Stephen says the event delivered on every front — from education and supplier engagement to camaraderie and good fun.

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Super Shoppes’ Geoff Harper and Dave Storey opened the proceedings, followed by keynote speaker and personal leadership coach Robyn Fond, whose talk, “How I Ended Up in Prison,” detailed her journey from corporate world to coaching inmates on emotional intelligence and self-control.

Leading economist Cameron Bagrie returned to deliver a sharp update on the state of the economy and its implications for small business owners. His key message was that success in the current business environment of uncertainty and tight spending is more down to the micro as opposed to the macro.

That how a business is run and

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

managed has more influence on success than the macro-economy or external factors.

Workshops were held with guest speakers, focussing on issues such as business divestment, risk mitigation, structuring for future growth and time management, as well as Auxo workshop management software, lubricant and tyre technologies, and getting the most out of Gen-Z employees.

A panel discussion was then held with senior management from Repco (Louise Sixton), BNT (Aaron Robinson) and MTA CEO Lee Marshall, who shared their insights on the future of the industry.

Friday night concluded with the

The black tie awards gala dinner gives the members a chance to scrub up for a classy evening of celebration.

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ROAD TEST

GWM Tank 300 Ultra Diesel The Chinese aren’t usually whimsical with their car names, quirky perhaps. But the Tank is different, vaguely resembling and turning like one, and now it has the motor it needed for towing.

In the ute world you’re not quite in the running unless your maximum braked towing capacity is 3.5 tonnes. And while in the SUV realm it’s not quite so critical, there are still those with boats and floats to haul who might not want a ute.

Such people might well consider something that is based on a ute, however. Like, for example, the vehicle you see here, the GWM Tank 300.

The original model arrived in 2023 packing a 2.0 IL4T hybrid powertrain, good for 258kW and 615Nm of output. It offered

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pretty impressive performance for something weighing in at 2313kg, hitting highway speed in just over seven seconds. However, braked towing capacity was limited to 2500kg and mean fuel efficiency was pegged at 9.4L/100km.

Enter the diesel

And that’s in part why a compression-ignition version is now offered as part of the Tank 300 line-up. It comes with the same 2.4 turbodiesel as the Cannon doublecab ute, which is appropriate given this uses the same chassis and running gear. Being a diesel, it isn’t all that much lighter than the hybrid at 2280kg, so it’s solid for something that’s 4760mm long but then it is a body-on-frame design.

With the diesel donk doing the leg work, this is rated to haul

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

braked trailers of up to 3000kg.

So it is a better load hauler than the hybrid, even if its torque tally isn’t quite as robust at 480Nm from 1500-2500rpm. That said, it has a larger payload than the original Tank 300 at 600kg. And its overall fuel efficiency is pegged at 7.8L/100km (rightcar suggests 9.0L/100km). We noted a long term average of 9.0L/100km on the trip computer. During our time last year in the Lux Hybrid we reported figures in the 11s so you’re going to use less fuel in this, for sure, while having more in the way of towing capacity.

diagnostic check showed nothing amiss but thereafter the engine light illuminated intermittently…for whatever reason.

Anyway, that minor sensor issue aside, the Tank 300 otherwise performed flawlessly. Being a diesel it hasn’t the sheer get up and go power of the hybrid which is vastly quicker. But then the diesel doesn’t have a 78kW/268Nm helper electric motor like the hybrid. So it is more ute-like for pace, taking 11.5sec to reach the metric tonne, and just under 10sec for the overtake.

However, the range of the diesel impresses, a 75L tank good for almost 1000km of travel. And so too is the ease of the diesel. Most utes go surprisingly well, even if that’s not necessarily reflected by the numbers. When we wanted to overtake it managed that just fine, thanks in part to a nifty nine-speed auto. There are paddles behind the wheels too but we didn’t bother with them given the auto does a sterling job of keeping the motor where it needs to be.

We quite admired the handling of the Tank 300 Ultra Hybrid and this is the same, the tyres ultimately limiting things. But the ride is ute reminiscent, with its solid axle rear.

It can be jiggly, despite a coilover set-up.

What’s inside?

The cabin is one aspect of the Tank that impresses. Okay, so clambering up isn’t that easy, though thankfully this has running boards to make the job easier.

But once you’re up there, the seat motors into position, and the reverse occurs when leaving.

There’s a decent lumbar pump too.

Inside is different good. We liked the aluminium mural-like finish above the glove compartment.

Alongside are large chromed star drive heads, that add to the built-tough vibe of the machine.

Vents look vaguely familiar, just like those on the AMG SL63 we

Darned sensors

Our time in the diesel didn’t kick off in the most auspicious way, with the engine light coming on and staying on the day after pick up. A quick

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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drove around the same time. Seat heater buttons are nearby. Look up and there’s a tilt and slide sunroof, with a manual blind beneath.

Look down and there are HVAC buttons. Initially it doesn’t look like there’s a central touchscreen but after the opening musical salvo a widescreen set-up appears.

It’s hard not to notice all the offroad gubbins here. That’s because the Tank is designed to go places, er, only a Tank can, kind of. It has 223mm of ground clearance, approach and departure angles of 33 and 34 degrees, respectively, front and rear diff locks, and 4H, 4L and 2L settings. There’s even a transparent chassis camera view for when you’re doing all that stuff. We trekked off to a spot we’d checked out before to assess its capabilities but in the interim a fence had gone up. Instead we made our way along an overgrown track, only to find no turnaround at the end.

Reversing back had the sensors and autobraking system in a bit of

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a lather. But it never raised a sweat; the driver will before it does.

Irritating quirks

It does have some pesky driver features though. Set or cancel the adaptive cruise and a voice confirms that, so unnecessary.

More annoyingly, even on the closest setting the Tank stays multiple car lengths from the vehicle in front, so all and sundry fill the gap and you steadily creep backwards which is contributing to a slowing of the economy. Perhaps it isn’t such a bad thing here though because the brakes aren’t especially inspiring.

Equally annoying is the saved radio stations system. Easy enough to save but if you want to scroll between the favoured few, that’s trickier. You need to go to the station list, tap on that, select favourites and you’ve got about 10sec to select another channel before it reverts back to the station list again.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Don’t yawn while driving either because every time for sure it will tell you to take a break. A yawn doesn’t automatically mean tiredness. Boredom with having to find favourites again, for instance.

What about cancelling lane assist that tugs away at the wheel? That’s hidden in a submenu, under Smart Drive which is right at the bottom of another submenu.

One last grumble is the two-step indicators which are too often hard to cancel.

On the other hand, spec levels are a bit of a surprise in a vehicle of this price and type. There’s steering wheel heating, the tilt/slide sunroof, seat heaters, paddle shifters, a quilted leather look for the seat upholstery and a Qi charge pad.

But then this is the Ultra spec variant. An unusual feature is the side opening fifth door on account of the attached spare which limits rearward visibility somewhat. At least it isn’t totally filthy when you

Model

GWM Tank 300 Ultra Diesel

Price

$57,990 / 7.8L/100km / 205g/km

Engine

2370cc / IL4 / T / DI

Max Power

135kW@3600rpm

Turning circle

12m (3.25 turns)

Drivetrain

9-speed auto / switchable 4×4

Speedo error

97 at an indicated 100km/h

Ambient cabin noise

69.2dB@100km/h

0-100km/h

11.54s

80-120km/h

9.43s (268.3m)

100-0km/h

40.75m

Stability systems

ABS, ESP

Safety

AEB, ACC, BSM, LDW, RCTA, ALK, AHB

Luggage Capacity

400-1635L

Tyre size

265/60R18

Fuel Capacity

75L

Service intervals

12 months / 15,000km

Warranty

7yrs / unlimited km

ANCAP rating

5 Star (2022)

Weight

2280kg

do get a flat, as the underslung spares will be. And it means a better departure angle too.

Tank 300 you’d consider if you want something off-road ready that turns heads, and offers more

practicality, comfort and spec than the likes of smaller off-road personality Jimny 5-door at $41k.

Unless you need an SUV for moderately heavy towing duties, then you’re probably better off

spending the extra $4k on the Ultra hybrid ($61,990 vs $57,990).

Or save a grand and buy the Lux hybrid instead.

All Tank 300 versions offer a seven-year, unlimited km warranty.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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Blast from the Past Every month we revisit pages from Radiator's history.

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

35

SUPPLIED CONTENT

From burnout to full control:

“It’s a no brainer. If your system isn’t giving you visibility across the group – if it’s making you double-handle data or struggle with reporting and customer engagement – you need something like Orion.”

Cooper Automotive levels up with Orion

- Mark Cooper, Cooper Automotive with little luck. Then one day Orion crossed his desk and everything changed.

Cooper Automotive owner, Mark Cooper, is well known in the industry. Having spent over a decade in various roles at Capricorn, including as chairman, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities workshop and service owners face. But long before boardrooms and strategy meetings, Mark got his start the old-fashioned way: pumping petrol and patching tyres at his dad’s service stations in Tasmania.

By 13, he was already pulling 21-hour weekends; sleeves rolled up, learning the trade one car at a time.

When school no longer held his interest, Mark’s dad suggested an apprenticeship, which kickstarted a journey across dealerships in Tasmania and Queensland. Mark eventually returned home to manage, and then buy, his

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first workshop in 1995, sowing the seeds of what would become Cooper Automotive.

What began as a one-man operation has since grown into a household name in Tasmania. Today, Cooper Automotive includes six branches, City Automotive (a Repco Authorised Service Centre), Tassie 4×4 (offering bull bars, canopies and suspension), and The Battery Shop. All in all, totaling more than 50 staff and a reputation for quality service.

But behind the scenes, their success brought operational complexity that their existing software just couldn’t handle.

As the business grew, so did the headaches. Their system couldn’t provide a unified view across locations. Stores ran on different versions, with no shared customer or vehicle databases. Part descriptions and pricing

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

were inconsistent, and stock transfers were manual.

Operations were disjointed and frustrating.

The financial side was also becoming a pain. Eight stores meant eight bank accounts, eight general ledgers, and eight balance sheets. Reconciling expenses and transfers became a slow, error-prone grind.

“It was like running eight separate businesses under one brand,” Mark recalls.

And it wasn’t just the team feeling the pain, customers were too. Without a centralised system, service reminders were inconsistent and confusing, creating a fractured brand experience.

Mark knew things had to change. He explored the local market, hired a consultant to research international options, and trialed several systems,

Built by Auxo, a New Zealand automotive software company with over 30 years of skin in the game, Orion stood out not just for what it offered out of the box, but for what it could become.

It covered about 80% of Cooper Automotive’s needs immediately, and more importantly, the Auxo team was actively developing and enhancing the platform, with Mark’s input helping shape its evolution.

The impact was immediate.

Financials were consolidated, with one central bank account and system-wide

reporting. Inventory, parts, and P&Ls were unified in real time. Staff no longer had to double-handle data or spend hours reconciling spreadsheets. The admin staff saw improvements too, with a user-friendly web interface and better tools for quoting and invoicing.

Implementation, one of Mark’s biggest concerns, went smoothly – largely thanks to their planning and preparation. The Cooper team trained using a test environment, building confidence before the switch. On launch day, Auxo provided on-site support across all locations, allowing the transition to go off without a hitch.

One of the biggest wins was in customer communication.

With Orion reminders are consistent and accurate across all branches, ensuring a seamless experience and excellent service regardless of which store a customer visits.

Since going live, Orion has continued to evolve with Cooper Automotive. Features like centralised job kits and integration with Repco Nav Pro have increased efficiency, and there are many more updates on the horizon. According to Mark, the Auxo team doesn’t just make promises, they deliver, and he’s looking forward to what the future of Orion can bring to his business.

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

37

SUPPLIED CONTENT

Getting a grip on things Since the introduction of the Electronic Data Plate, once a vehicle was LVV certified, its tyre size was fixed at the size of the tyres fitted when certified.

This isn’t normally an issue, except where there are two basically equivalent sizes of tyre that use different measuring systems, depending on the type of tyre. Once the tyres that the vehicle was LVV certified on wear out, they (in theory) can’t be replaced with anything other than the size recorded on the EDP. The point of recording tyre sizes as part of an LVV certification is threefold. One purpose is to make sure that the vehicle’s braking efficiency isn’t changed. As the circumference of a tyre increases, this has a correspondingly increased leveraging effect on the vehicle’s braking system – in other words, if the circumference of the tyre fitted to the vehicle increases from that which it was certified on, this could cause a vehicle to no longer meet LVV braking requirements. The second reason is for clearance with other parts of the vehicle – if the tyre diameter increases, this could cause rubbing or fouling on parts of the vehicle that used to have sufficient clearance. The third effect of changing the tyre size is the effect this has on the accuracy of the vehicle’s speedometer. An increase in diameter will cause the speedo to underread, and a decrease in tyre size will cause it to overread.

Depending on the type of tyre being fitted to a vehicle, there can be two systems used to describe its sidewall and aspect ratio – those described using the ISO Metric numbering system (which is the most common), which has a standardised section width/aspect ratio/rim diameter

nomenclature, and the High Flotation tyre type (commonly found on 4WDs and some tyres intended for drag racing) which uses a diameter and width measured in inches. There can also be some differences in sidewall construction between the two, depending on the intended use of the tyre. Despite the differences in measurement, there are several tyre sizes that cross over.

The fact that the tyre size is recorded and specified on the EDP means that a vehicle can’t go from an ISO Metric tyre to a High Flotation tyre, though, even if there is an equivalent size. For example, a 4WD vehicle which was LVV certified on 315/75 R16 tyres couldn’t then be fitted with 35”x12.5” R16 tyres, even though these are basically equivalent.

To remedy this situation, owners of affected vehicles can now have an equivalent tyre size added to the data on the EDP. Once a vehicle has the equivalently-sized (either ISO Metric or High Flotation) tyres fitted, it needs to go back to an LVV Certifier for a quick look to confirm the tyres are indeed equivalent, that there are no changes to steering, braking, or handling, and that no further modifications have been made. They will then contact us, and we will add the new tyre information and any photos to the EDP data.

While there may be a charge from the LVV Certifier for their time, there is currently no charge from us to the certifier for adding this information, but only one additional, equivalent tyre size can be added. Any further tyre size changes after this will be

charged and processed as a standard Wheels & Tyres recertification.

After all – there will only be one size of tyre that is equivalent, and this shouldn’t be used to facilitate a ‘creep’ in the tyre size that a vehicle is LVV certified for. This only applies to vehicles on an EDP, as tyre sizes are not generally recorded on an engraved certification plate.

Note, of course, that the details of any equivalent tyres need to be added to the EDP data before the vehicle is presented to an AVI. This doesn’t automatically allow any LVV certified vehicle to run a different tyre profile – this needs to be confirmed by an LVV Certifier and added to the EDP data in order to be accepted.

Andrea Andrew WoF Consultant National Service available • QMS and VIRM Training • Face-to-face group training

Stress-free annual performance assessments • On-site VI competency assessments (specific areas)

A vehicle like this, LVV certified on 35x12.5 R17 tyres will soon be able to have the equivalent ISO Metric size added to the EDP data

021 2777 228 andrea@wofconsultant.co.nz www.wofconsultant.co.nz

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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ENERY AND HEAVY VEHICLE

programme designed to help you relax, recharge and build meaningful connections:

Fuel up on innovation at forum As the New Zealand service station industry continues to navigate an evolving landscape of technological change, shifting consumer expectations and regulatory complexity, there’s never been a more important time to step back, recalibrate and reconnect with your peers across the region.

The 2025 Asia Pacific Fuel Industry Forum (APFIF) from 16 to 18 September 2025 at The Star Gold Coast is your chance to do just that.

This annual event is the preeminent gathering of fuel and convenience professionals from across Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia Pacific. It offers New Zealand businesses unique opportunities to explore the forces reshaping our sector and bring home practical insights that can be applied immediately across their retail and wholesale operations.

Three-day programme and trade exhibition Day 1 – Tuesday 16 September 2025

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The forum kicks off with a series of specialist half-day workshops designed to provide deeper learning and problem-solving around key topics such as: •environmental best practice for forecourt operators •fuel distribution challenges •contractor compliance and workplace safety systems.

These highly practical sessions offer delegates the opportunity to engage with subject matter experts, regulators and fellow operators in a collaborative and solution-focused environment.

Days 2 and 3 – Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 September 2025

The two-day conference features an impressive line-up of local and international speakers exploring some of the most pressing issues facing service station businesses across the ANZ region: •Navigating shifting energy policy and fuel mix diversification.

•Embracing AI, automation and digital technology.

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Mathew.alderdice@mta.org.nz

•Responding to changing consumer behaviour and labour market trends.

Of particular interest to MTANZ members will be a special Day 2 keynote presentation by Stephen Scheeler, former Facebook CEO for Australia and New Zealand and current CEO of pioneering AI company, Omniscient Neurotechnology.

Stephen will explore how technological innovation, particularly in AI and data analytics, is transforming the way that service stations operate, compete and engage with customers. His session will offer practical insights into where the digital shift is headed and what operators must do to remain relevant and resilient.

•The C360 Expo – 16 to 18 September 2025

Running throughout the forum, the exhibition showcases the •Welcome BBQ Dinner – Tuesday evening, 16 September latest innovations, services and technologies from across the fuel 2025 and convenience ecosystem.

Kick off the week in true Aussie From forecourt equipment and style with a relaxed beachside digital platforms to loyalty BBQ – great food, cold drinks and casual networking under the programmes and compliance systems, the expo is your stars. chance to meet suppliers, trial •Gala Industry Dinner products and explore potential – Thursday evening, 18 partnerships.

September 2025 A black-tie evening of Join the conversation – and enjoy the Gold Coast sunshine entertainment, recognition and celebration, including the 2025 Let’s face it, by the time September rolls around, a quick Australian Fuel & Convenience escape from the Kiwi chill might Awards. sound pretty appealing. What

better excuse to break out the short sleeves and enjoy a few days of sunshine, strategy and industry smarts on Queensland’s spectacular Gold Coast?

Whether you're a multi-site operator, fuel wholesaler, technology provider or independent retailer, the 2025 APFIF offers unmatched value, insight and connection.

Register now and save Thanks to a special partnership between the event organisers ACAPMA and MTA, New Zealand delegates are eligible for a special member discount.

See the MTA Toolbox for more details or use the discount code ‘MTANZ25’ when registering at apfiforum.com.

More than just business

Of course, the APFIF experience is not just about strategy and speakers, it’s also a celebration of the incredible people who keep the wheels turning in our industry.

The three-day event includes a comprehensive social

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For too long, we’ve seen young people leave school without the skills or direction they need to thrive in industries like ours.

The broad automotive industry, like many trades, has been somewhat sidelined by an education system that generally emphasises flexibility over national standards. But significant change is on the horizon – and while we welcome it, it’s vital that it’s implemented thoughtfully and in partnership with industry.

The Government’s proposal to replace NCEA with the New Zealand Certificate of Education and the New Zealand Advanced Certificate of Education marks a significant shift in how we prepare students for life beyond school. The Government is promising clearer vocational pathways, stronger foundational skills, and qualifications that are easier to understand and more internationally comparable.

Under the new system, students could leave Year 12 already holding a Level 2 Certificate in the trades – or be well on their way. These credits will count towards apprenticeships or further study, giving students a real head start in industries like automotive. The introduction of a Foundational Award in literacy and numeracy ensures that every student has the basic skills needed to succeed, whether they pursue academic or vocational routes.

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Students will be able to mix vocational and academic subjects and switch pathways if their interests change. This ensures students aren’t locked into one route too early, giving them time and experience to determine whether a particular trade is right for them, before leaving school.

Valuing trades We are assured that the new system sends a strong message: trades are not a fallback option. They are challenging, skilled professions that deserve equal recognition and respect. By embedding vocational learning into the heart of secondary education, we’re telling students – and their families – that a career in the trades is a pathway to success.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the reform is the integration of Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects into senior secondary qualifications. These will be developed in partnership with the newly established Industry Skills Boards (ISBs), ensuring that the learning is relevant, coherent, and aligned with real-world needs.

The ISBs will need more funding for this, which will presumably be allocated in Budget 2026. For the automotive industry, this means students will be learning skills that directly translate to the workshop floor.

With MITO transitioning to industry ownership, the automotive sector is

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james.mcdowall@mta.org.nz

well-positioned to lead the way. We know what skills are needed, and we’re ready to shape the curriculum to reflect that. This is a chance to develop the next generation of highly skilled practitioners and business owners.

The key for industry is to ensure that all stakeholders are well represented in these reforms, both future PTEs like MITO and polytechnics.

What next?

While the reforms are promising, questions remain – particularly around how these changes will integrate with other tertiary education reforms. MTA is well-placed to advise and work with Government on that, given our ongoing collaboration with TEC and the Ministry of Education.

In the meantime, we urge all employers and stakeholders to engage with the Government’s proposals and have their say. Submissions are open until 15 September 2025, and this is our chance to shape a system that works for our industry and our future workforce. MTA will be submitting, so members are very welcome to send feedback to us directly.

The automotive industry stands ready to play a key role in these reforms. We see this as an opportunity to build a stronger, more skilled workforce that relies less on immigration long-term and is equipped to meet the workforce needs of tomorrow.

First look: Kia Tasman ute launch brings bold design New vehicle launches were something I used to attend fairly regularly in my last role. Generally they were pretty much the same, and after a while they became a bit monotonous. When the team at Giltrap Kia extended an invitation to check out the new Kia Tasman ute in person, I was rather intrigued to attend.

From the pictures I had seen of the new Tasman, it presented a rather aggressive new styling, especially in the ute space, and I was interested to gauge it in person and get my own view of it.

An hour sitting in late afternoon Auckland traffic on a rainy day heading over to Auckland’s North Shore wasn’t the best start to the event, but once there I was presented with three vehicles, all covered.

Even though they were sitting under a cover, I could tell they were big. I wasn’t expecting that!

First impressions for me were the aggressive styling and defined lines to them, and personally, I liked it – something new and out of the box.

Well thought out Everything seems to be thought of, from the exterior to the interior it all looks like it belongs together. The interior and dash look more highend passenger car than commercial ute – even details like the back doors opening up to nearly 90 degrees to allow easy access to the ample rear seats.

Now Kia is entering a very highly contested space and will be going head to head against the two giants

REPAIRER

ADVOCACY

NCEA’s demise good news for trades

Glen.mcgarry@mta.org.nz

Does the Tasman have the goods? and current kings of the ute market, so they will have to bring their A-game out of the box. With the two main players selling nearly 20,000 new utes into the market in 2024, it’s going to be interesting to say the least.

Has it got the goods?

So, does the Tasman have the goods to deliver against the competition?

Yep. Check out some of these numbers to see how serious they are. 4WD 2.2 turbo diesel producing 440Nm of torque @ 1,750 and 154kWs delivered through an 8-speed auto with a 3.5T (braked) towing capacity and a GVM of 3,250kgs. It has every safety acronym under the sun, like ABS, ESC, MCB and so on. Safety systems from Kia passenger vehicles have been at the top end to date, so it would only make sense to bring them into this new realm.

There are currently four 4WD Tasman models in New Zealand, offering different levels of wheels, trims and

modes from mechanical and electronic locking diffs to different terrain modes, dependent on models.

Talking with the team from Kia during the launch, it appears the abovementioned 8-speed auto has been pulled from the ever-popular Kia Stinger, then adapted with the 4WD transfer system to suit the Tasman.

Now, this is my personal thought here, but you would hope that when the engineers were designing and building the new Tasman, they thought about placing the twin-turbo V6 from the Stinger in here as well. We already know the trans will take all them ponies.

Well, the only thing left to do is take one for a drive, and I can’t wait to give it a crack. Hopefully the weather will be better than it was at the launch night! A big thank-you to Chris Bradley, Matt Godbold and the rest of the Giltrap Kia team.

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DEALER

Dreamers and disruptors and what they teach us New Zealand is a country known for its rugged landscapes and pioneering spirit, and over the years we have seen dreamers and disruptors take on the world.

At a time when the New Zealand economy is dominating our lives, it can be hard to see the positives and reflect on all the good that we are doing or have done.

Sometimes it easier to drop our heads and drag our feet.

This month let’s look at some positive individuals who dared to challenge convention and reshape the world in their image. We don’t have to be them, but we can take some learning from them.

Conquering Everest One of our greatest legends took New Zealand to the top of the world. “Well, we knocked the bastard off,” were famous words said by Sir Edmund Hillary to his team as they descended from the summit, conquering Mount Everest on 29 May 1953.

About the same time, Burt Munro, a true dreamer from Invercargill, was pushing his limits with passion and ingenuity, obsessed with speed.

He spent decades modifying his 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle in his shed. Then in 1967, at the sprightly age of 68, he set a land speed record on the Bonneville Salt Flats, reaching over 183mph.

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Jock had enough vision and passion for everyone who came across him; the dream was to turn a shed-born idea into a road-legal rocket with serious style.

The Britten In 1992 we lost our automotive icon with Denny Hulme passing away doing what he loved at the Bathurst 1000. At the same time, another New Zealand visionary Larry.fallowfield@mta.org.nz

Burt Munro put the speed into his 1927 Indian, a true disruptor.

Burt proved that with vision and grit, anything is possible, and these two actions that are needed in the current economic climate.

While 1967 Burt was reshaping the Salt Flats, a 31-year-old nicknamed ‘The Bear’ was smoking the Formula 1 world driver championship. That was our very own Denny Hulme.

The Bear inspired a dream in Jock Freemantle: build a Kiwi supercar that could make Ferrari nervous and honour racing legend Denny Hulme.

I had the privilege of meeting Jock and assisting him in a small way with the Hulme Supercars project.

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was also rewriting motorcycle history.

His name was John Britten. In the early 1990s he stunned the motorcycling world with the Britten V1000, a hand-built superbike that defied engineering norms and outperformed factory-backed machines from global giants like Ducati and Honda.

In 1992 the Britten V1000 roared

The revolutionary motorbike hand-built by John Britten.

I remember asking him, “Why are you trying to build a supercar here? Why not build a 200-plusmph beast in a country better known for its sheep?”

With a Corvette LS7 V8 engine and Formula 1 vibes, the Hulme CanAm ‘The Bear’ was designed to be fast, loud, and unapologetically cool. In 2005 the first Hulme CanAm prototype hit the road.

If you lived in eastern Auckland, on a good day you would see Jock taking would-be investors and supporters for a hair-raising spin on the windy Twilight Road in Clevedon or cursing the Auckland waterfront.

to victory at the Daytona Battle of the Twins, cementing its place in racing history. But more than trophies, Britten left behind a legacy of fearless innovation. On 5 September 2025 it will be 30 years since the passing of John Britten.

John was an engineer and designer whose name is synonymous with out-of-the-box thinking. He designed and built the V1000 from the ground up in his backyard workshop; he and his team did everything from the engine to the carbon-fibre bodywork.

He rejected traditional thinking, opting for radical solutions like a frameless chassis, underseat radiator and revolutionary suspension. The result was a machine that not only looked like it came from the future but performed like it too.

Where would motorcycles be today if he were still alive?

What would have happened if Jock had raised more money?

Have vision Five legendary New Zealand dreamers and disrupters, four automotive geniuses who carved their own road across New Zealand and the world, all of whom had trial and tribulations, and all battled the adversity of the challenges they faced.

Not all dreams become reality and if the vision is snuffled out then the dreams fade. These stories are a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose and when a Kiwi refuses to accept the limits of what’s been done before.

Remember, all had a vision, all had focus, and all had grit and determination.

Success is not always measured by results, it’s about how we handle the challenges in front of us.

Racing legend Denny Hulme Formula 1 champion.

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Sport is often given status in life because it reflects many of the key elements of life. You win some and you lose some; playing the game is more important than the end result, confronting a defeat then rebuilding to achieve a comeback result. There are many parables in life and sport.

Any game needs someone to ensure the spirit and the rules of the game are followed, sometimes because there are people who will cheat. The referee holds everyone on the field to account, intervening when there are differences of opinion or conflict. A game without a referee loses its structure as each team starts to act in a self-serving manner.

Regulations Regulating parts of the New Zealand economy to ensure a standard can often conflict with views of the free-market people who see it as adding cost through regulatory hurdles and compliance costs. The other side sees it as a need to balance forces for the benefit of society. The ideal as always is somewhere in the middle.

New Zealand has a mix of these regulations, where (depending on your point of view) building a house has too many local body costs and requirements that add

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to costs yet don’t deliver the assurances you would expect. The leaky homes saga is an example.

Repairing vehicles in New Zealand isn’t regulated; anyone can present a vehicle for inspection.

Historically, that may have been okay in the comparatively simpler vehicles of the past. While there are stories of poor repairs that led to unnecessary injuries or fatalities, generally there were not enough of these to get a lasting public profile of concern.

That is changing, or has changed.

New vehicles offer safety levels that significantly reduce harm over vehicles we previously produced . These vehicles are fallible and need systems to be installed and operating correctly to provide that safety. This adds another complexity to the safe vehicle debate: not only do we check mechanical and structural integrity, but we also need to check that the electronics are calibrated and operating as designed.

Car culture In my view, complicating this scenario is the ability in the past for people to repair and modify their own vehicles. The DIY culture is big in New Zealand, as in other similar countries (Australia, USA, UK).

Meddling with the right to work on

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prabha.raman@mta.org.nz

stewart@collisionrepair.co.nz

your own vehicle requires adjusting this culture.

Today’s new vehicles need additional skills over the mechanical and structural repairs required previously. To achieve the safety levels, new vehicles are designed to requires skills that ensure the safety systems are working as they should. Which is much more than ensuring all the warning lights are extinguished and you are good to go.

It gets tangled up too with the Right to Repair debate; both issues needs careful thought. Given the big advances in safety incorporated in today’s vehicles, how do we know they are doing their job?

The answer to this isn’t going to be found in a bac yard repair shop.

To be serious in ensuring the vehicles safety systems are all operating effectively, the New Zealand public needs to know the work done in repairing their vehicles puts that vehicle back on the road with all systems operating and calibrated as designed.

A referee is needed and/or a regulatory standard that must be met to do this work.

• Stewart Gibb, CRA General Manager

HR ADVICE

COLLISION REPAIR

A good game has a good referee

yulene.knight@mta.org.nz

Conduct conundrum All employees are expected be professional; however, more often than not, employee conduct at work can cause some serious concerns for the employer.

Misconduct can affect the entire workplace and is often one of the most contested areas in employment relations.

Misconduct is the formal term for a whole range of inappropriate behaviours or actions in which your employees can engage, from ignoring an instruction to punching a colleague or stealing money from the till. These can be minor violations of workplace rules or serious offences.

Misconduct can be broken down into two broad categories based on the seriousness of the behaviour and its impact in the workplace with respect to financial, reputational, and health and safety risks.

Misconduct is considered serious when an employee’s behaviour has undermined or destroyed their employer’s trust in them and impacted the employee’s ability

to do their job. It usually involves the employee acting deliberately or extremely carelessly. However, what constitutes serious misconduct will vary from place to place. For instance, a construction worker not wearing the right uniform, including safety boots, could be serious misconduct as it endangers the health and safety of self and others, but it's unlikely to be serious misconduct if one forgets to wear their uniform in a supermarket.

Having said that, there are a few things that will normally be considered serious misconduct regardless of where you work, such as: •violent behaviour •bullying •sexual, racial, or other harassment •theft or fraud •behaviour that endangers the health and safety of yourself or others •using illegal drugs/being intoxicated at work.

These misbehaviours may warrant

dismissal including dismissal without notice as an outcome of a disciplinary process.

On the other hand, misconduct may not result in dismissal of the employee unless there have been repeated instances; however, it could lead to other disciplinary actions, such as a warning.

Process is paramount while managing conduct issues. You must always act in good faith, have a good reason to take action, and follow a fair process. Not following the right process may cause serious risks for the employer in the form of a personal grievance for unjustified dismissal. A dispute may cost you a lot of time and money – so it’s important to get it right.

The H R Advisory team at MTA can support you with such issues.

We are highly skilled and can guide you through the maze of rules and regulations surrounding a disciplinary process. Email MTA HR at hr@mta.org.nz or call us on 0800 00 11 44.

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The automotive industry is changing fast. Technology, consumer expectations, and regulations evolve year to year, sometimes month to month. Yet, the way we train our future workforce hasn’t always kept pace. Traditional qualifications, while essential, can take years to review and update. In the meantime, workshops are left trying to bridge skill gaps on the job. That’s where micro-credentials come in, and why they deserve serious attention in the tertiary education space.

Put simply, micro-credentials are short, focused units of learning that teach a specific skill or knowledge area. They’re NZQA-recognised, stackable, and can either stand alone or contribute toward a larger qualification. Think of them as building blocks that build capability in a more defined and timely way.

Let’s say an employer needs a technician to upskill in ADAS calibration or EV thermal management systems. These are real, immediate needs in a rapidly evolving workshop environment, not theoretical ones waiting to be addressed in a fiveyear programme review. With micro-credentials, an employer could access a targeted training solution now, without waiting years for a full qualification overhaul.

Micro-credentials allows employers to keep up with what matters most, when it matters. They also help

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smaller workshops that may not have the resources to support a full apprenticeship straight away. They could build staff capability in stages, focusing on the skills they need most to support business efficiency.

Major advantages One of the major advantages of micro-credentials is customisation.

By unbundling qualifications into smaller units, employers can tailor a development plan for each employee.

These units still align with national standards, but they allow for more precise alignment with business needs.

This also supports lifelong learning.

For instance, someone who starts with a micro-credential in EV safety could later build on that by completing more credentials that eventually contribute to a larger qualification. It offers flexibility without sacrificing structure or quality.

Qualification reviews in the traditional model can take years – sometimes up to five – by which point key content may already be outdated. This creates a situation where the education sector is asking businesses to meet the needs of the training system, rather than the other way around.

Micro-credentials flip that model.

They can be developed and rolled out quickly, meaning that tertiary education can finally match the speed of technological and industry change. This saves both time and money. Instead of investing in broad training that may not be immediately

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Loretta.thompson@mta.org.nz

relevant, employers can make focused, cost-effective decisions that support capability and financial viability.

Competitiveness It’s not just a question of convenience, it’s about competitiveness. In a tight labour market, being able to upskill staff quickly in emerging areas like electric vehicles, diagnostic tech or customer service gives businesses an edge.

We’re already seeing pilot programmes and providers beginning to incorporate micro-credentials into their offerings. But to make this approach truly work, we need support from government, industry, and the wider education ecosystem.

That means clearer pathways from micro to macro short courses that genuinely ladder into larger national qualifications and better recognition of employer-led training needs.

MTA will continue to advocate for an agile, industry-responsive education model, one in which training reflects the speed and scope of modern automotive work. Micro-credentials are not a silver bullet, but they’re a crucial tool in the toolbox.

Let’s build qualifications that keep pace with our workshops, supporting them to grow their people, build profitable businesses, and ensure education truly serves the industries for which it was designed.

A question often put to the Mediation Service is whether repair warranties are transferable.

This is an interesting subject for repairers because in many cases, vehicles are worked on, then sold soon afterwards. The question then arises, “If the repair fails, does the new owner have the right to get the failure remedied by the repairer?”

From the new owner’s perspective, they have a car that had a repair done which according to the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) should still be in a good state of repair. They may have purchased the car because of this particular repair. A reasonable consumer for example, would expect a replacement cambelt to last at least 80,000–100,000 kilometres and it would be unreasonable if that belt failed at, say, 15,000 kilometres. But if it did fail this early, could the new owner go back to the company that carried out the replacement and get it fixed under warranty?

Keep in mind, that there is no actual contract between the new owner and the repairer. This means that the new owner has no recourse with the repairer because you can’t

be entitled to a warranty that you did not pay for.

But does the situation change if the previous owner who authorised and paid for the original job goes back to the repairer and asks for the job to be repaired under warranty?

At the time the repair was carried out, the transaction came under the guidelines of the CGA. If the repairer doesn’t know that the car has been sold and they remedy the fault under warranty, does this mean the original owner has acted fraudulently or just simply utilised their rights under the CGA to get the job done for the new owner?

Simply put, when a vehicle is sold, any contracts that were made before the sale and that were covered by the CGA still apply, providing the fault is directly related to the original repair. However, it is not just the general coverage of the CGA that remains in place, but also any other warranties (eg, an MTA Repairer Warranty) that was provided. The warranty remains with the vehicle – it does not end when the ownership transfers.

Depending on the extent of the

MEDIATION

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

The rise of micro-credentials

Repair warranties – who enjoys their benefits?

sean.stevens@mta.org.nz goodwill of the owner at the time the warranty was originally provided, coverage may be extended. In other words, if the new owner is able to gain the cooperation of the previous owner who had the work done, then the obligations under the warranty remain. If the new owner goes back to the seller seeking their assistance in having their warranty claim met I it’s difficult to think of a reason why the previous owner wouldn’t help them.

After all, they have been paid for the car and helping the new owner with a claim will not usually cost them anything directly. As long as the previous owner is prepared to be involved, they can take it back to the repairer and seek a remedy under either the original repairer warranty provided or alternatively within the terms of the Consumer Guarantees Act. Clearly standing behind your work means just that, irrespective of who owns the vehicle you performed work on.

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Certified Skills La malu lou sā. Folau i lagimā. A wellgrounded self is a successful self.

It’s a sentiment that flows effortlessly through Midas Newtown and Te Aro, where Sanerivi (Rivi) Leiua is carving out more than just a career, but a place to grow, laugh, and thrive.

Growing up in Samoa, Rivi was on the tools from a young age. “On my dad's side, they’re all mechanics. I grew up around four-wheel drives.

When I was a young guy, I used to just hang around with my uncles and fix this, fix that, play around with this, play around with that. That's very much how I got into cars.”

Moving to Wellington in late 2019 just before the world shut down due to COVID-19, Rivi completed Years 11– 13 at Rongotai College. It was here that the opportunity for vocational training and work experience was presented through MITO’s secondary school automotive micro-credentials, StartUp® Ignition and Accelerate.

Rivi not only earned these microcredentials while still at school, but also secured a foot in the door working for Thinus van Greuning, owner of two Midas workshops in Wellington’s inner suburbs.

“Work experience is a really good thing,” Thinus says. “We've employed a few out of work experience because you get to know them. You get to see what their ethics are like and all that sort of stuff.”

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Five years later and Rivi is still proudly working at Midas and continuing his studies with MITO. Recently achieving the New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4), Rivi is already looking ahead to what’s next—upskilling with electric vehicles and eyeing Authorised Vehicle Inspector (AVI) certification.

“It’s essential,” Thinus explains. “Once you're qualified in New Zealand and you carry an AVI cert, then you're a lot more employable. And it makes perfect sense if you're an AVI mechanic at the same time”.

And Rivi is setting his sights beyond just qualifications: “When I started the course, all I wanted was to get qualified. And now, I'm looking at maybe having my own workshop one day.”

“My job’s in jeopardy!” Thinus quips, before adding, “You’ve got the skill set for it.”

As they discuss the differences between working at and running a business, it’s clear that Rivi has found what every young apprentice hopes for: o le vāfealoa’i—a crew that’s got your back and pushes you forward.

Part of Rivi’s support crew is MITO Training Advisor Richard Hainsworth.

“That is my man,” Rivi says of Richard.

“That is my man. He is the man.”

It’s an affectionate label Rivi uses to describe both Richard and Thinus, which sums up their working

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

relationship: positive, empowering, and just the right amount of cheeky.

Rivi appreciates Richard’s guidance to complete his assessments, along with regular updates on his course progression. The flexibility around learning is a system that works well for Rivi, and part of why he chose to continue his studies with MITO. “Rivi has been a pleasure to help and guide through his apprenticeship,” Richard says. “Right from the outset, Rivi worked well with me to constructively set targets, and he worked hard to complete these within the expected time frame.

“He maintained regular contact right through, which also helped him to achieve things at pace,” Richard continues. “Rivi is a real asset to the industry, and I am looking forward to supporting him through his next MITO qualifications.”

Thinus agrees: “He's got integrity, and he asks questions. He's got a natural ability, a natural aptitude towards mechanics. But he's also got a bit of common sense and a bit of wisdom there.”

As Rivi prepares to chart the next chapter of his automotive career, he’s in good hands at Midas Newtown and Te Aro. Carrying the spirit of fa’aāuāu le folauga i le va’a o tautai (to continue the voyage with competent wayfinders of the ocean,) Rivi is navigating forward with purpose and support.

The total new passenger vehicle New Vehicle Market Passenger and Commercial (PV) and commercial vehicle - July 2025 (CV) market recorded 11,667 unit registrations in July 2025. This is an increase of 2,242 units compared with July 2024, albeit down 184 units on June 2025. Year to date (YTD) the total units are up by 3,018 or 4.2 percent.

New PV registrations in July totalled 7,633 units, an increase of 1,292 units or up 20.4% compared with July 2024. YTD the sector is tracking up on 2024 by 5,754 units or 12.4 percent.

CV registrations in July, 4,034 units, meant it was the highest trading Top 10 New Vehicle Brands month YTD in 2025. Unfortunately, the sector is still behind - July 2025 last YTD by nearly 11 percent and down 2,736 units.

Brand July Units Monthly % Toyota and Ford had another good month, both brands TOYOTA 2,513 21.5% topping three figures for the month.

FORD 1,248 10.7% Toyota leads YTD with 16,763 registrations, a massive MITSUBISHI 987 8.5% 8,705-unit lead over second-placed Ford and 9,592 units KIA 748 6.4% over Mitsubishi.

Toyota HiLux and Rav4, along with the mighty Ford Ranger, SUZUKI 631 5.4% continue to trade places at the top of the brand category.

NISSAN 554 4.7% Back in April I made a bold statement, and it is looking like BYD 512 4.4% I must now eat my words as the Ford Ranger has taken the HYUNDAI 415 3.6% overall top spot again with a 42-unit lead over Toyota’s MAZDA 399 3.4% Rav4, and the Toyota HiLux holds a very comfortable third MG 395 3.4% place after seven trading months.

Top 15 New Models - July 2025

New Vehicle Motive Power

Make

Model

July units

TOYOTA FORD TOYOTA NISSAN SUZUKI MITSUBISHI KIA MITSUBISHI BYD MITSUBISHI TOYOTA FORD TOYOTA HYUNDAI MG

HILUX RANGER RAV4 NAVARA FRONX OUTLANDER SELTOS TRITON SHARK 6 ASX HIACE EVEREST LANDCRUSIER PRADO

TUCSON ZS

Monthly %

868 838 601 416 347 307 277 276 256 250 244 234 211 206 192

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

7.4% 7.1% 5.2% 3.6% 3.0% 2.6% 2.4% 2.4% 2.2% 2.1% 2.1% 2.0% 1.8% 1.8% 1.6 %

51

MARKET OVERVIEW

SUPPLIED CONTENT

New vehicles

MARKET OVERVIEW

Used import vehicles When you look at the graph, apart from a couple of blips between February 2025 and May 2025, the year is like looking in a mirror, albeit at a much lower level.

The passenger and commercial vehicle sectors are down by a massive 12,604 units, or 19.4%, compared with the same seven-month trading period in 2024.

A total of 8,397 units were registered in July 2025, up by 1,314 units on June 2025, but unfortunately not enough to improve the YTD totals. July 2025 was down 11.5 percent or 1,090 units, fewer than in July 2024.

PV registrations had its highest trading month in 2025, with July recording 8,063 unit registrations, up 1,255 units from June 2025, but still down by 940 units compared with July 2024, and 11,090 units or 18.1 percent behind YTD. Commercial vehicle registrations in July 2025 totalled 334, an increase of 59 units on June 2025. The sector is down 1,514 units or by just over 39 percent YTD. Toyota, Nissan and Mazda all made the triplefigure registration sales for the month of July.

After seven trading months, the top three brands still control over 64 percent of the market: Toyota at 19,476 units is 37.2 percent, Nissan at 7,502 is 14.3 percent, and Mazda with 6,697 is 12.8 percent of the total sales YTD. Toyota Aqua finished top again in July with 11 percent or 922 registered units and has increased its market share to 9.8 percent of the total sales YTD. The Nissan Note with 403 units pushed the Toyota Corolla into fourth for the month, while YTD with 3,633 units the Toyota Prius controls nearly 7 percent of the total registrations. Toyota Corolla with 4.7 percent and 2,485 units currently holds third position with a lead of more than 440 units over the Nissan Note.

Used Vehicle

Motive Power

52

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Used Vehicle Market Passenger and Commercial - July 2025

Top 10 Used Import Brands - July 2025 July units

Monthly %

TOYOTA

3,110

37.0%

NISSAN

1,248

14.9%

MAZDA

1,139

13.6%

HONDA

719

8.6%

SUBARU

686

8.2%

BMW

309

3.7%

SUZUKI

197

2.3%

MERCEDES-BENZ

174

2.1%

MITSUBISHI

143

1.7%

AUDI

134

1.6%

Top 15 Used Import Models - July 2025 Make

Model

July units

Monthly %

TOYOTA

AQUA

922

11.0%

TOYOTA

PRIUS

584

7.0%

NISSAN

NOTE

403

4.8%

TOYOTA

COROLLA

370

4.4%

MAZDA

AXELA

318

3.8%

HONDA

FIT

299

3.6%

TOYOTA

C-HR

293

3.5%

SUBARU

IMPREZA

259

3.1%

NISSAN

X-TRAIL

223

2.7%

MAZDA

CX-5

219

2.6%

MAZDA

DEMIO

203

2.4%

SUBARU

XV

202

2.4%

NISSAN

SERENA

174

2.1%

HONDA

VEZEL

138

1.6%

NISSAN

LEAF

133

1.6%

Motorcycles and scooters

New Road Registered Motorcycles and scooters - July 2025

The new road motorcycle and scooter market followed July 2024’s upward trend with combined registrations of 491 units, recording the secondhighest trading month in 2025 (the highest was January 2025, with 801units). July 2025 was up 78-unit registrations and nearly 19 percent from June 2025, albeit down 63 units and 11.4 percent on July 2024.

In the under-60cc scooter class 70 units were registered, and in the over-60cc motorcycle class 421 units took to the road.

YTD registrations are down 11.6 percent or 518 units.

Honda, with 59 units and 12 percent of the monthly volume, took the month’s podium, while Triumph with 46 units and 9.4 percent was on the number two spot. Yamaha was on the lower rung in third with 8.8 percent or 43 registered units.

It was a slightly different story YTD, with Honda, Suzuki and CF Moto controlling just over a third of all units registered (33.9 percent). There was a 38-unit split across the top three, with Honda Top 10 Motorcycle Registrations by Brand - July 2025 July units Monthly %

leading the rego race at 11.8 percent of the total registered sales at 464 units, closely followed by Suzuki, down just 18 units YTD with 446 and 11.3 percent, while in third was CF Moto with 10.8 percent or 426 units, the only other brand to be in the 400-plus unit sales.

The top 10 models for July 2025 represented 385 units and 78.5 percent of the month’s total registrations.

Nine of the top 15 brands in July made double figures and

represented 28.3 percent and 139 unit registrations.

YTD four models have triple-figure unit registrations: the CF Moto MT450, the Kawasaki EX, the TNT Roma and the Harley Davidson Softail, with 251 units and 6.4 percent, 125 and 3.2 percent, 121 and 3.1 percent and with 117 and 3 percent respectively.

The used import market had its second lowest month in 2025, with 14 scooters and 47 motorcycles for a combined 61 registrations.

Top-selling Models - July 2025 Make

Model

July units

Monthly %

CFMOTO

MT450

23

4.7%

KAWASAKI

EX

21

4.3%

HARLEY DAVIDSON

SOFTAIL

19

3.9%

FORZA

CICLONE

18

3.7%

TNT

ROMA

15

3.1%

HONDA

59

12.0%

TRIUMPH

SPEED 400

11

2.2%

TRIUMPH

46

9.4%

KTM

390

11

2.2%

YAMAHA

43

8.8%

HONDA

CT

11

2.2%

CFMOTO

42

86%

SUZUKI

UZ50

10

2.0%

KAWASAKI

41

8.4%

ROYAL ENFIELD

CLASSIC

9

1.8%

SUZUKI

39

7.9%

HONDA

CRF

9

1.8%

ROYAL ENFIELD

31

6.3%

MOPED

YB50QT-3

9

1.8%

KTM

30

6.1%

SUZUKI

GSX250

9

1.8%

FORZA

28

5.7%

FORZA

CAPRI

8

1.6%

HARLEY DAVIDSON

26

5.3%

YAMAHA

XTZ690

7

1.4%

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

53

Mechanic/WoF Inspector AUCKLAND

Heavy Diesel Automotive Tech GREYMOUTH

Busy Automotive workshop - Auckland Howick Central. Are seeking a mechanic with any experience.

Contact Vlad: 021 261 2604 or email: info@somarservice.co.nz

At Doug Thomson Mechanical Ltd, we are looking for someone with the following qualities: -Have a broad range of knowledge with servicing and repairs to most heavy vehicles - Be able to complete tasks to a high standard in a timely manner - Be confident with a scan tool or be open to learning - A solid work ethic, reliable and punctual -Self motivated and the ability to work unsupervised - A full drivers license including Classes 2-5 or the ability to gain them. - Looking for a qualified or nearly qualified heavy diesel automotive technician. Contact Phone: 027 361 7570 Email applicants should go to: office@dtmechanical.co.nz

CLASSIFIEDS

Motor Garage Limited AKAROA We are a small team in a busy, rural but wellequipped workshop looking for an automotive technician. You will preferably have your WOF authority but, if not, a willingness and eligibility to get it is essential. You will: - Have previous experience working in a workshop environment. A competitive hourly rate based on skills and experience - $28 $34 per hour Full time role - Minimum of 30 hours per week. Contact Phone: 021439834. Email applicants should go to: akaroamotorgarage@xtra.co.nz

Automotive Technician BAY OF ISLANDS Bay of Islands Auto & Marine have a vacancy for a Full time qualified automotive technician in our Workshop located in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

A WOF inspection qualification would be great, but if not you must be keen to train for it. We offer phone plan, weekly travel allowance and would also assist with relocation expenses for the right applicant. We run two workshops and work with cars, outboards and heavy marine engines. Great staff buying privileges across all divisions. Contact Phone: 0292384088. Email applicants should go to: brian@boiam.co.nz

Auto Electrician CANTERBURY KAIAPOI We are seeking a fully qualified, full-time auto electrician to join our team. To be considered, applicants must have New Zealand residency or a valid NZ work visa and currently reside in New Zealand. The ideal candidate will have: Experience with diagnostic equipment , a full driver’s license, at least four years of experience in the trade and the ability to work unsupervised. As this role involves our mobile service covering North Canterbury.

In addition to technical skills, we are looking for someone who is reliable, honest, friendly, and able to work well in a small team. If you meet these requirements, please send your CV to admin@kae.nz.

Contact Phone: 0226829791 Email applicants should go to: admin@kae.nz

Automotive Technician CHRISTCHURCH Automotive technician/WOF inspector. We are looking for a qualified automotive technician with WoF Authority to join our small team at Maxi Auto Services LTD. Diagnosing problems using diagnostic tools, carrying out WoF inspection, servicing and mechanical repairs. Great communication skills and ability to work without supervision. Full New Zealand’s driver’s license is essential and NZ Residency. Email CV to maxiautoservices@gmail.com

Summit 4WD Ltd CHRISTCHURCH Full time Automotive Technician. We are a wellestablished, privately owned and centrally located workshop. We can offer an excellent, supportive team environment. Skills Required • Fully qualified mechanic • Current WOF authority is an advantage • At least five years’ experience in repairs and servicing • Confident in diagnostics • Fast problem-solving skills • Excellent time management skills. Applications for this position must be a NZ resident or have a valid NZ work visa.

Email applications to admin@summitautomotive. co.nz

WoF Inspector DUNEDIN Opportunity for a qualified/experienced Automotive Technician to join our friendly team in our busy Dunedin workshop. WoF Certified preferred but would be happy to help you get qualified.

Competitive remuneration. Contact Garry 0274 545 040 or email: bgapplegarth@xtra.co.nz.

54

Bel Automotive Geraldine Ltd GERALDINE BEL Automotive Geraldine is on the lookout for either a keen apprentice or a qualified automotive technician to join our small, friendly, and communityfocused workshop. A current restricted or full NZ driver’s licence You must be eligible to work in New Zealand and able to pass a pre-employment drug test How to Apply: Send your CV and a short cover letter telling us about yourself to; BEL Automotive Geraldine 13 Peel Street Geraldine. Contact Phone: 03 6939664. Email applicants should go to: belautomotiveltd@gmail.com

necessary, so long as the applicant is capable and willing to get it. Email applicants should send their CV to: p.motors2024@gmail.com

Petersen Motors 2024 Limited KAIKOHE Office Admin Staff. Seeking a keen person to join my office team. Must be customer driven, have a good sense of humour, have good phone manners and computer literacy. Also be willing to learn more in the role. Full time and/or Part time role.

Email applicants should go to: Accounts@ petersenmotors2024.co.nz

Petersen Motors 2024 Limited KAIKOHE We are seeking a qualified mechanic/technician to join our team. WoF certified preferred but not required, as long as able and willing to get it. Job type: Full Time. Email applicants should go to: accounts@petersenmotors2024.co.nz

Auto Electrician MATAMATA Onsite Auto Electrical Matamata are looking for a qualified auto electrician to join our team. We work on a variety of vehicles both in our workshop and onsite.Email office@onsiteae.co.nz or 078887579

Autoworx GORE

Automotive Technician MANUKA

We’re on the lookout for a qualified mechanic to join our small, friendly team in Gore.What we are looking for is a qualified mechanic with a passion for diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance with a WOF authority, or willing to obtain it (we’ll support the right person to get there).We offer: • Competitive pay based on experience , ongoing training and support (including WOF certification if needed. Apply now or get in touch for a confidential chat. Contact Phone: 032087462. Email applicants should go to: autoworx@xtra.co.nz

We are looking for a qualified Automotive Technician for our busy workshop located in Manuka City, AutoKing. WOF ticket and auto electrical knowledge would be a bonus. Monday to Friday only, day off for your birthday and competitive hourly rate. If this sounds like you, please email your CV to: workshop@autoking.co.nz Email applicants should go to: workshop@autoking.co.nz

The Car Company (HB) Ltd HASTINGS Sales Executive - Hastings Kia. Join a leading Platinum Status Kia Dealership in Hastings as a Sales Executive. We are looking for a motivated sales professional to promote Kia’s innovative product range including the New Kia Tasman Ute to the Hawke’s Bay region. About You: Proven experience in automotive dealership or fleet sales (LV and Ute experience a strong advantage), strong business development and networking skills. Phone: 0212 892898. Email applicants should go to: mark@ thecarcompany.co.nz

Qualified Automotive Technician w current WOF ticket KAIAPOI We are looking for a team player that wants to join our fantastic team here in Kaiapoi. We are wanting someone who works well in a team environment, someone that takes pride in their work and is comfortable reaching out for assistance when needed.

This person will also need to be confident in their ability to compete repairs to a very high standard and give our customers the best customer service in town. We are looking for someone who is reliable, honest and Friedly while also being very driven and likes to take pride in the repairs they send out the door. A range of tasks are on offer so if you would like to know anything further please email a copy of your CV and a list of questions through to casey@ rivertownauto.co.nz A full drivers license is a must.

Job type: Full Time Contact Phone: 0211801705

Mechanic KUMEU, RODNEY Small busy workshop seeking a mechanic with recognised qualification. WoF authority a bonus.

Great communication skills and ability to work under pressure. Email Mike: admin@manukaautomotive.co.nz.

Qualified Technician KAIKOHE At Petersen Motors we are seeking a qualified technician to join our team. This will be a full-time position. WoF ticket certification is a bonus but not

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Auto Electrician MOTUEKA Burnett Auto Electrical, Motueka’s longest established Auto Electrical workshop, is seeking a fully qualified auto electrician or 3rd year apprentice to join our busy team. Between $35 and upwards 40hour work weeks with overtime opportunities (overtime rates apply). A company vehicle will be offered to suitable applicant. Responsibilities will be diagnosing and repairing electrical faults and computer-controlled systems used in automotive technology such as private, commercial, and industrial vehicles.

Contact Phone: 035289218. Email applicants should go to: admin@burnett.nz

Vehicle Service Centre MOUNT MAUNGANUI WoF inspector / Automotive Technician. Your role will be to carry out WoF inspections and general mechanical repairs and maintenance on all makes and models. We have a modern workshop with up-to-date tools and equipment. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, closed on weekends.

We close on public holidays and closed for 2 weeks over Christmas/New year. We would love to meet you! Contact Phone: 07 575 8604. Email applicants should go to: reception@vehicleservicecentre.co.nz

Qualified Mechanic MAYFIELD

We offer Immediate start Negotiable flexible hours for the right candidate Supportive work environment to ensure success in your role! Experience in: Petrol & Diesel engines diagnostics problem solving & repairs. Customer service and communication skills.

Knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines.

Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Vehicle inspector certificate for WOF. A valid driver’s license (full preferred). Strong Knowledge of a wide range of car makes and models. Phone: 0274367215. Email applicants should go to: ansarsahib61@gmail.com

Automotive technician RANFURLY We are looking for an experienced Automotive Technician for our busy workshop in Ranfurly Central Otago, Auto Super Shoppe Ranfurly. Starting date July/August or earlier if required. You will need a minimum Trade Certificate, National Certificate or

level 4 in Automotive Engineering on the National Framework or equivalent experience and time served.A full driver’s licence and ability to drive manual vehicles.Preferably hold a current Warrant of Fitness Certificate of Appointment, or be prepared and able to obtain this.Be a strong team player, confident working alone and with a team *Have an adequate tool kit to perform required duties *Have strong customer service *New Zealand Residency or work permit. FUll Time. Contact Phone: 021324671 or 034449365. Email applicants should go to: cjsinclair.ranfurly@xtra.co.nz

Experienced Mechanic TAIHAPE Please email us for further information bellsdieseltruckandtractor@gmail.com or call 027 332 2471

2x Qualified Auto-Electricians TASMAN / NELSON Our work is interesting and varied, servicing – retail, commercial and industrial clients. Work can be in our workshop or out in the field. Join our fun dynamic team! Contact Dawn on 027 432 3171 Email: sales@auto-electrical.co.nz

Automotive technician TAURANGA Welcome to Automotivated - we are a busy Automotive workshop in sunny B.O.P Tauranga.

Looking for a motivated full time technician to join our team, We specialize in fleet servicing all vehicle make/model repairs/wof s MTA approved all the latest workshop/equipment and diagnostic scan tools, preferable WOF authorized or able to achieve authority, possibility to grow within role. Job type: Full Time - Contact Phone: 0275710548.Email applicants should go to: admin@automotivated.co.nz

Automotivated TAURANGA

Auto electrician WHANGAREI

Email applicants should go to: admin@cavanaghmotors.co.nz

Automotive Technician TE PUNA, TAURANGA Seeking qualified mechanic for full time or job share role in busy, well established workshop.

Email Adrian: service@tepunamotors.co.nz

Mechanical & Tyres Mechanic TRENTHAM Full + part-time positions available at busy Upper Hutt workshop. Applicants will need to be mechanically qualified, preferably with AVI authority (but not essential). We are looking for team members capable of mechanical & autoelectrical repairs, tyre fitting, etc, with a positive, enthusiastic attitude who can work in a team & also independently. For more information email tmt. trentham@gmail.com or call Jason on 021 1610838.

Contact Phone: 0211610838 Email applicants should go to: tmt.trentham@gmail.com

Blackwood Yamaha Mechanic WAIKATO We are looking for a mechanic to join our team at Blackwood Yamaha in the mighty Waikato!

If you are motivated, can work as part of a team as well as independently, we want you to come and join us. We work Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm and rostered Saturday mornings. Strong knowledge of motorcycle mechanics and electronics. You will need to have a full NZ Driver’s Licence and Motorcycle class 6 Licence or be willing to get one.

Contact Phone: 07 8277066 Email applicants should go to: accounts@blackwoodyamaha.co.nz

Yamaha Motorcycle Technician WAIKATO

We are a busy central city workshop looking for a experienced qualified mechanic to join our Team, preferably you will be WOF certified or willing to become certified - we pay well for high performance along with negotiable benefits. Please call to discuss further, Guido 0275710548. Contact Phone: 0275710548. Email applicants should go to: admin@automotivated.co.nz

Join our team at Blackwood Yamaha in the mighty Waikato! Excellent customer service and communication skills both written and verbal. A full NZ Driver’s Licence and Motorcycle class 6 Licence (or willing to get one) A competitive pay will be based depending on your skills and experience. We also offer other staff benefits. Phone: 07 827 7066 Email applicants should go to: sales@blackwoodyamaha.co.nz

Automotive tech/WoF Inspector TE AROHA

Senior mechanic/ diagnostician WAIPU

Immediate start. Qualified or equivalent experience and WoF authority are required. We offer excellent working conditions. Please email CV to: service@summitmotors.co.nz or call Garth on 021511911.

We are on the hunt for an Experienced/Intermediate mechanic to carry out vehicle and Trailer WOF inspections. Service, repair work and diagnostics on all makes and models of vehicles. No two days are the same. The ideal candidate must have a WOF inspection certificate ,4 or more years experience and a level 4 Certificate in Automotive Engineering. Adapting to paperless job cards through MechanicDesk and basic computer skills is essential; An excellent knowledge of vehicles of all makes and models, In particular, European vehicle knowledge would be beneficial. Please note: this is not a trainee or apprenticeship position. Good hours Monday to Friday 8:00 to 4:30. Car-pooling available from Whangarei. Contact Phone: 09 4320301 Email applicants should go to: accounts@waipumotors.com

Qualified Mechanic TE AROHA We are seeking an automotive mechanic with their WOF ticket. Job includes, WOF tests, diagnostics, assessments, repairs and servicing on a variety of vehicles. Maintaining accurate records. Ability to work independently. Must be currently living in, and legally allowed to work in New Zealand. Must have a current and full NZ driver licence. Option to be on call out roster. Contact AgPlus Ltd 28-32 Lawrence Avenue, Te Aroha, 3320. admin@agplus.co.nz 07 8849901.

Automotive Technician TE PUKE Cavanagh Motors Ltd Te Puke Workshop. Must have a current WOF Inspectors authority, have the ability to work unsupervised, diagnose technical and electronic issues in passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, with the ability to guide and train junior technicians when called upon to do so.

Applicants must be capable of adapting to servicing not only the Mitsubishi vehicles we specialise in but also the many and varied makes and models our workshop handles. If you are motivated, adaptable, professional, knowledgeable, tidy with work habits, great customer skills, holds a full and current class 1 drivers licence, no criminal convictions, and are a team player, then we would love to hear from you.

English language must be Excellent. Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa. Contact Phone: 075736303

Mechanic & WOF Inspector WHANGANUI Experienced mechanic wanted Full Time, MondayFriday. Fun, friendly team working in busy Rural Garage on all automotive/ farm machinery & equipment. Contact Ross 06 342 7827 or email fordellgarage@inspire.net.nz

Oakleigh Automotive WHANGAREI Automotive Technician. We a looking for an automotive technician to join our small team in a busy workshop 15mins South of Whangarei. You will preferably have your WOF authority but, if not, a willingness and eligibility to get it is essential. We do everything from Wofs, General Repairs, Brakes, Suspension, Servicing, Welding, Air Conditioning, Electrical. Contact Phone: 094322636 Email applicants should go to: info@ oakleighautomotive.co.nz

Bindon Auto is a specialist Auto Electrical workshop located in central. We work on a large variety of vehicles and equipment including Passenger, transport, forestry, recreational and Marine. We are a fun team of 8 with a high level of expertise. Must be Trade certified automotive electrical engineer with experience in the commercial sector. Current New Zealand Drivers license Experience with Air Conditioning an advantage. Excellent remuneration with tool allowance and overtime paid.

Neil's Auto Centre WAIUKU Family business based in Waiuku, competitive rates paid to suitable candidate fulltime permanent position. A minimum of 2 plus years out of apprenticeship, varied experience with good references. A WOF certification qualification a bonus. Hours are Mon to Fri 8am to 5pm and some Saturday mornings as work load requires. You must be living in and have the legal right to work in NZ apply. Email applicants should go to: neilsautos@xtra.co.nz

Motorcycle Mechanic WHAKATANE, BAY OF PLENTY Underwood and Wilkins' is seeking a talented Motorcycle Mechanic to join our team in Whakatane, Bay of Plenty. What you'll be doing Carrying out routine maintenance and servicing on motorcycles and other automotive vehicles (Side by sides, ATV's etc) .We're looking for Relevant qualifications in motorcycle or automotive mechanics Minimum 3 years' experience as a qualified motorcycle/automotive mechanic.

We will potentially look at nearly qualified or a journeyman (experience but no formal MC qualifications). Job type: Full Time. Contact Phone: 073086166. Email applicants should go to: admin@underwoodandwilkins.co.nz

Diesel mechanic WYNDHAM Enthusiastic diesel injection technician with common rail experience to join a thriving rural garage with a fully equipped diesel fuel injection facility. Generous package to reflect experience, with possibility for future investment into the business. Email: redbarron222@gmail.com or phone 0272 417 614

Businesses for sale Automotive Workshop NORTHSHORE (OREWA Retirement Looms. Prime location/Long established business. 3 Bays 2x2 post Hoist, 1x4 post Hoist Wofs,Tyres,Batteries.

P: 09 4265783 M:021 022 45219.

E: orewa.auto2016@gmail.com

Services

VIRM In-Service Certification Questionnaire pack Training resource for prospective and current VIs. 14 questionnaires, marking and certificate of completion. Contact Fliss, Business Systems Sorted.

Phone: 022 151 1243.

Email: fliss@businesssystemssorted.co.nz. www.businesssystemssorted.co.nz.

Need some help?

Simple, personalised H&S system, documented policies and procedures, hazsub inventories and office optimisation service - clearing the clutter!

Contact Fliss, Business Systems Sorted 022 151 1243.

Email: fliss@businesssystemssorted.co.nz. www.businesssystemssorted.co.nz.

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

55

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Radiator Magazine - August 2025

Radiator Magazine - August 2025

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The more you get involved, the more you can benefit from membership. Just contact your coordinator to check the dates of the meetings in your region.

KAIMAI

NORTHERN REGION

Amy Lai

Region Coordinator 021 292 7652 amy.lai@mta.org.nz

EASTLAND Kim Preston

Regional Events Coordinator Team Leader 027 280 0707 kim.preston@mta.org.nz

Natalie Campbell

Region Coordinator 021 414 665 natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz

CENTRAL WEST 2025 MTA Board of Directors: Andrea Andrew, Jason Land, Grant Woolford, Sturrock Saunders (President), Ross Verry, Rob Braun, Joris Sanders.

COOK STRAIT Natalie Campbell

UPPER NORTH ISLAND

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

Region Coordinator 021 414 665 natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz

Shannon Morbey

Region Coordinator 021 031 0075 shannon.morbey@mta.org.nz

MIKE BURD

MEMBERSHIP ADVISORS

Team Leader

COAST TO COAST

NICK MILLS

027 539 4010 mike.burd@mta.org.nz

027 2099 494 nick.mills@mta.org.nz

SOUTH AUCKLAND

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

Jody Worsfold

Region Coordinator 021 152 8232 jody.worsfold@mta.org.nz

SHELLEY CARTER MARK MOWBRAY

027 270 2665 mark.mowbray@mta.org.nz

LOWER NORTH ISLAND & UPPER SOUTH ISLAND DANNY GARRICK 027 478 0593

danny.garrick@mta.org.nz

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027 497 1568

shelley.carter@mta.org.nz

MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT

AORAKI EAST COAST SOUTHERN MAINLAND

Member support team: 0800 00 11 44 mta@mta.org.nz

Jody Worsfold

Region Coordinator 021 152 8232 jody.worsfold@mta.org.nz

Katrina Garrett

Region Coordinator 021 225 5528 katrina.garrett@mta.org.nz

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REGIONAL CONTACTS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025

We encourage all members to attend the training courses, professional development opportunities or networking events taking place in their areas. Our region coordinators will let you know what’s on and when. They are also keen to hear your ideas for other training or get-togethers that you’d like to take part in.

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