Radiator - September 2023

BOB JONES FIRES UP

FERRARIS, FINES & THE FUTURE

THE MTA DEBATE

POLITICIANS ON THE SPO T

MEMBER IN PARADISE

MEET THE GOOD GUYS

IN CASH PRIZES

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MTA SECTOR REPORTS

Radiator

Production Editor

Peter Woodcock 021 100 2405

peter.woodcock@mta.org.nz

Editor Gerald Rillstone 027 252 3229 gerald.rillstone@mta.org.nz

Advertising enquiries 0800 00 11 44 advertising.radiator@mta.org.nz

Training & Development: Success through coaching and influence

FEATURES

Fuel & Heavy Vehicle: MTA fuel sector webinar

Advocacy

HR - Devil in the detail for employers

Repairer: Taking over from Tapley: Motorbike safety

Collision Repair: The future of the automotive industry

Dealer View: Keeping up with sector challenges

Market stats: August 2023

COVER

Member in Paradise: Bini, from one of our most remote members, Cook Islands Motor Centre,

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 Vertia, Wellington Mailhouse Orange Box, Wellington

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.

EAP phone 0800 327 669 any time

Confidential and free to all MTA members and their families plus your staff and their families.

Select 2 (or 9 for an emergency). Tell them you are an MTA member.

Challenges abound CE COMMENT

For over a century MTA has represented the broadest spectrum of the automotive industry, and to this day our purpose hasn’t wavered: we are here to create sustainable business advantage for members and to advocate for the needs of our great and valuable industry.

We are important to the wellbeing of New Zealanders, as not only do we contribute $5.5 billion to New Zealand’s GDP each year, but we are also a vital part of every New Zealander’s daily life, enabling people to get to work, go to school, go on holiday, transport goods, provide services, or simply to visit friends and loved ones.

Across the country people rely on our sector to keep their vehicles safely and efficiently moving.

Advocating for all is no simple task, and the breadth of our membership at MTA forces us to always take a holistic view of everything that we advocate for. Often the needs and desires of one sector will be at odds with another. As the voice of our industry, this forces us to consider the consumer and the greater good in every change that we ask of government.

Right now, the policy landscape is complex. Questions abound and we are all feeling the pressure. You may not always agree with everything we advocate for, but it is by being balanced and considered that we earn the ears of those we need to influence.

More than ever there is urgency for industry to take action on emissions reductions, but with tensions at a time where many are feeling the pinch. Right now, MTA is engaging with the Government on how to minimise the strain on household budgets while doing what we must.

Perhaps the most commonly discussed issue amongst members is labour shortages, which, while improved, still persist across the spectrum. It’s our role to support the 60,000 people who work in our sector and help them to continue to stay up to date with the latest technologies in a landscape that is fast-changing.

With the ongoing upheaval of our industry training organisations (ITOs) being merged into Te Pukenga, and the subsequent loss of any meaningful voice in the governance or direction of the training establishments that

many others in our manifesto of policy calls, which we released in May this year. These calls were backed up and debated further at the recent MTA Political Debate, featuring the transport spokesperson for each of the major political parties, where we continued to remind those in power of the changes and

support our industry requires. Whoever the future Government is, you can rest assured that following this year's election, MTA will be there advocating for our members and holding the Government to account.

Noho ora mai, Lee Marshall

New look for

Radiator

Simon Bradwell, Media and PR Manager.

Spring is in the air. Traditionally, Spring is the time for rebirth, new beginnings, new life.

exist to provide the apprentices of tomorrow, we will be advocating to ensure the education system continues to meet the needs of the industry it represents.

We want to see the steps taken that ensure the sector is producing the right number of graduates, with the skills and technical capabilities we’ll need in the future.

As climate change becomes arguably the defining issue of our time, our sector recognises the significant role it has to play in decarbonisation, and we stand committed to helping our members make the changes necessary to make a difference.

With the transport sector the second largest carbon emitter behind farming, and with farming seemingly having become politically untouchable in recent times, more than ever transport risks becoming a political plaything with continuous well-intended but ultimately ill-considered policy changes that cost the taxpayer, move the needle little, and create uncertainty for an industry that actually stands ready to work with Government.

We outlined these issues and

Join the MTA board

Voting for one director position on MTA board opens this month on 22 September.

As MTA undergoes a transformational process, this is a great time to join the board and steer the industry towards an exciting future. The board meets about every six weeks and directors also sit on one or two committees. It is important for board members to reflect the different regions, sectors and people that make up the motor trade.

Voting closes on Thursday 12 October. Voting will be done online and the results reported at the Annual General Meeting.

So it’s the perfect time to unveil a new beginning for Radiator. Already you’ll have noticed our new-look cover, with the stylish modern masthead. Out with the blue box, in with an eye-catching new script that aligns Radiator with MTA’s marketing and collateral. We’ve changed font too – to Futura Book, if your hobbies run to typography – which is more modern and readable.

There are a couple of design tweaks spread through, which also give the mag a fresh look. And what better way to showcase them but to feature our most tropical member, Cook Islands Motor Centre. We’ve added some new features too.

Our HR team has joined our monthly columnists, with advice and insights for your business.

Since we love cars as much as you do, we thought we’d share stories of our favourite rides with you.

And we’ve brought in Smoko Stumpers, a five-minute quiz to test your automotive knowledge with your team.

We know you rate Radiator highly, so we’re always looking at ways to make it an even better read for you.

And lastly, this Spring spruce-up was all done in-house, so there was no cost incurred.

Enjoy the read, and as always let us know what you think at mta@mta.org.nz.

Lee making his introductory speech at the recent MTA debate.

Bright Blue Badge under blue skies

MTA members are spread the width and breadth of New Zealand, but it may come as a surprise to learn there’s a remote member in the Cook Islands.

Cook Islands Motor Centre in Rarotonga has been a member since expat owner Don Dorrell joined in 1969. It’s an idyllic place to live and work; there are stunning beaches, tropical weather, exotic fruit and seafood - all the things that Kiwis coming out of a bitter winter long for.

But there’s a flip side to it too and Managing Director Fiona Dorrell is well placed to deal with the dayto-day challenges.

She grew up there, and stepped into the business when her dad, Don, known locally as 'Papa Don,' passed away last year.

“We moved here when I was three,” Fiona says.

“It was pretty good growing up here, especially in those times; my brother and I were pretty free, we were free-range kids.”

Don moved to the islands - part of the Realm of New Zealand - in the late 1960s after his automotive repair business on Barrys Point Road on the North Shore burnt down.

The insurance cover wasn’t enough to get it up and running again so in 1969 he took his entrepreneurial skills to the Cook Islands to see if it was for him.

He loved it and decided to stay.

“He came here for six months and then sent for us, and we travelled on a boat and at that time it was very rough here, the roads weren’t

sealed back,” Fiona says.

“Dad loved the locals, and we still have some of the original workshop boys come in and see me, they were so loyal to him because he taught them everything they know.” He paid tribute to his staff too, adopting the company slogan 'The Good Guys.'

Fiona has great memories of those early days and her daredevil dad. He was a keen motorbike rider and would jump one of his bikes through a hoop of fire over 44-gallon barrels at local events.

“That was one of his favourite tricks,” Fiona says.

Auckland education

As lovely as it was, the

freewheeling days in the tropics did come to an end when Fiona turned 13 and was sent to college in Auckland, boarding during the school year and returning for holidays.

She loved getting back to her island paradise and wanted to join the business in her 20s, but Don wasn’t having it. He had oldfashioned attitudes, Fiona says, so she trained as a graphic artist and worked as a medical photographer at Auckland Hospital. But after 50 years in the business, and in his 80s, Don struggled with dementia.

His decision-making needed guidance, Fiona says, if the business was going to survive.

Fiona Dorrell (right) with her mum Dianne.

As Don’s condition worsened, Fiona began travelling between Auckland and the island in 2021, easing into the role of managing director.

“The last couple of years were a struggle for him,” she says. Having some time with her dad and understanding the business also meant when Don died Fiona was ready to keep the business going.

“It is good validation for me that my early thoughts of getting into the business weren’t out of line,” she says.

Love and challenges

There’s a lot to love about the place, Fiona says, but there are challenges that members in New Zealand wouldn’t have to deal with.

It is expensive to run the workshop with electricity coming from the islands’ diesel generators.

“The cost of power here is absolutely incredible; we are looking at three grand a month for it.

“The sense of time and urgency is quite different here, but it’s just how it is, and it is accepted by the locals.

“There is also an interesting cultural difference here: you have to be a bit softer with people, you have to temper how you deliver some conversations.

“As a tourist, you don’t see that so much; it can be both endearing and frustrating,” she says. With only 25 kilometres of road around the island, it can feel a bit restrictive, and Fiona admits most expat Kiwis like to get back to New Zealand regularly.

“I do love being here, but you can get a bit of cabin fever, but right now I am looking after my mum also and it is really good to be here for her at this time of her life.” Getting stock to the island can be challenging and take time, so you also need to plan well, Fiona says.

“It was a nightmare during Covid-19; the people dealing with freight made a killing out of businesses. The cost of a container went from three grand to 15 - it was massive.”

It does get very hot, there’s the occasional hurricane and then there are the creepy crawlies, which can cause serious problems.

“We have centipedes which some people react to, the wasps are huge, stonefish and sea snake, and a starfish we call the taramea or crown-of-thorns, if you stand on it, it can be pretty lethal.”

Planning for sustainability

Fiona wants to continue developing the business so it is well placed for the future.

“There so much to do here and a lot that Dad would have liked to have seen done.

“I would love to get the whole roof covered in solar panels and be running the plant that way.

“He was such a forward thinker himself and a coastal conservation expert here.”

Just last month Fiona took delivery

of a Kia EV6, the first EV to come to the Cooks.

“We don’t need huge battery power or storage in EVs here, the island is only 25km around, but eventually we would like to have a couple of charging stations - that would fit in with the whole solar idea as well.”

And for her own future, Fiona says she wouldn’t trade her Cook Islands paradise for anything.

“You can’t compare it to anything else, it is a place that is good for your soul.”

A couple of the 'Good Guys', at Cook Island Motor Centre, mechanics Manoa and Daniel.

Billy enjoying the opportunity to catch some fish.

Scooters, Hondas and Nissans, all part of the Motor Centre business.

A local flight arrives as Billy fishes for dinner.

Nothing better than a coconut snack on the back of the company truck for Bini and Billy.

Papa Don

Don Dorrell, aka Papa Don, had been a keen hunter growing up in New Zealand and loved the environment to the point where, daughter Fiona says, he was obsessed with climate change. He spent a lot of time tracking the hurricanes that arrived onto the shores of the Island and thought nothing of taking his Nissan Patrol out into a hurricane or storm to study how the waves were crashing on the beach, and observing the incredible damage they did.

Don worked hard on various projects protecting the shores of his precious home, and over the years became an expert on erosion matters – of the beaches and further inland.

He spent time designing and developing two systems that were to aid in reducing the harsh results of beach erosion and heavy wave damage. The CPU and the COPED units have different actions – the CPU aids in the restoration of beaches by allowing waves through it and stopping sand from washing back out. A well-known study of the units was carried out in front of the Rarotongan Beach Resort, and was very successful.

In keeping with Don's love of the environment, and with his experience as a trained Navy diver, his coastal conservation business helped many of the islands, both in Rarotonga and in the Pa Enua, to widen their harbours by well-executed blasting.

In the early days, he loved spear fishing and Fiona remembers their Sundays were spent with a large group of friends called ‘The Purple Gang’ who went out fishing, then had barbeques of the catch either on the beach or at someone’s house.

He loved sport and played soccer and enjoyed motorcycle racing, winning trophies for both sports. Don passed away in June 2022 and his life was celebrated with a massive community gathering.

This page top left: Don and wife Dianne cut up the rug on the dance floor.

2nd from the top: Cook Island Motor Centre in the early days.

3rd from the top: Don pulling one of his favourite stunts, jumping through a f laming hoop.

Bottom left: Don at his 80th birthday celebration.

Top right: Don and Dianne on their wedding day.

Above: Don and family set to sail.

Don with a stack of the erosion-fighting COPED blocks.

The CPU Don designed to build up sand in action on the beach front.

MPs grilled in MTA debate

It was a night of tough questions, insights and ideas – and even a few laughs.

Welcome to the MTA election debate.

In one of the highlights of the MTA calendar and the run up to the October general election, the four main political parties gave insights into their transport policies and plans in a lively and contentious evening last month.

Helen White (Labour), Simeon Brown (National), Julie Anne Genter (Green), and Simon Court (ACT) were grilled on a range of automotive industry topics by moderator and Newshub political journalist Lloyd Burr. The audience wasn’t shy either, with a few tough questions of their own.

Around 55 people attended the debate at the Wellington Club, with many more MTA members watching a live stream online.

The debate focussed on issues identified in MTA’s election year call to action, Driving New Zealand Forward: People, Safety, The Future and Strong, Fair Markets

After an introduction from MTA Chief Executive Lee Marshall, who reminded the audience that MTA always “puts the consumer, and the general good, front of mind”, participants were given a minute to make an “elevator pitch” of their plans if they form part of the next Government.

Addressing climate change and infrastructure were central themes for all the parties. The politicians then addressed a range of topics.

Both Simeon Brown and Helen White acknowledged the success of the Apprenticeship Boost, but neither would be drawn on whether they would make it permanent beyond 2025. On the subject of the Warrant of Fitness, all parties agreed changes were needed to the testing regime, but disagreed on what they were.

Simeon Brown said the 12-month warrant for vehicles registered

since 2000 needed review, as did the $200 fine for driving without a warrant; Helen White was interested in MTA’s proposal for greater testing of emissions as part of the warrant; Julie Anne Genter agreed with all of MTA’s call around the warrant in the manifesto; and ACT said many people needed more money in their pockets so they could keep their vehicles at a safe standard. Some of the more spirited exchanges involved quickfire questions. In particular, the participants fired up over bilingual road signs. ACT said the signs would be more expensive, National that the focus should be on improving roads first, while Labour and Green strongly supported the signs.

Asked by an attendee what their 'Plan B' was if it became impossible for EVs to be shipped to New Zealand because of safety concerns, participants agreed the industry and technology would find a solution.

There was no consensus on the issue of Right to Repair, but in a rare moment of unity, all parties

From left to right: Simeon Brown, National Party, Helen White, Labour Party, Julie Anne Genter, Green Party, and Simon Court, ACT Party.

Julie Anne Genter.

Simon Court.

Simeon Brown.

Helen White.

Tony Johnson from LVVTA poses a question. MTA Chief Executive Lee Marshall.

were interested in MTA’s call for greater action on the issue of vehicles dumped at a repairer and going unpaid and unclaimed, saying they would be happy to look at it and work with industry to solve a problem that places a financial burden on businesses.

Questions from attendees kept the MPs on their toes before they had to leave the debate to return to Parliament.

The debate doesn’t signal the end of MTA’s election advocacy. Keep an eye out for more planned in this space.

MTA would like to thank all MPs and Lloyd Burr for taking part.

Around 55 people attended the debate.

Moderator Lloyd Burr.

News media take note of Lee Marshall’s address.

MTA director Sturrock Saunders greets Blair Wright, of the Blair Wright Group.

MIA CEO Aimee Wiley asks a question of the panel.

MTA member support officer Jenny Foy.

Helen White enjoys a moment.

Simeon Brown stands to make a point.

Lee Marshall and Haley Mortimer from Z Energy.

Sir Bob pipes up

Love him or hate him – and we freely acknowledge there are plenty in both camps –Sir Bob Jones is the country’s most outspoken octogenarian. He’s also someone who’s owned some of the world’s most famous and prestigious cars. And naturally, he has forthright opinions on them.

It may also surprise you to learn he makes a significant amount of money from cars. As the owner of a substantial worldwide property portfolio, carparks in his buildings generate millions of dollars a year in income.

Who better placed then to provide an opinion on some well-known marques and the future of cars.

I was about 10 when I first had a ride in a car, up to the end of the street and back. Prior to that I'd had a couple of rides in an uncle’s truck in the Manawatu when staying on his farm.

But it must be remembered that the average man in the street did not begin to acquire cars (and then always second-hand) until the mid1960s.

That’s borne out by the fact that when I began school at five years of age in 1945, I walked three miles, mainly along Lower Hutt’s High Street. Imagine that today? A parent would be prosecuted for child neglect. But as there was virtually no traffic, there was no concern.

When I was about 18, three mates and I bought a spacious mid 1920s Ford for 15 pounds in which we had meetings. We couldn’t afford to have it repaired. Periodically, following complaints, we’d push it to a fresh location, until after a fortnight, a fresh complaint and a further shift became necessary.

What ultimately happened to it, God only knows, albeit ironic as today it would be worth a fortune.

First Porsche

When I was 21, I began making lots of money and thus bought my first car, a two-year-old Morris. After six months I gave it to my parents and bought a low mileage stylish-looking Simca Etoile from

the Health Department, it having been used (scantily) for visiting the housebound sick. Because no-one could afford cars, doctors visited the sick in those days, rather than the reverse. By then during the spawning run, I was spending every fifth week from March to September fishing the Taupo rivers.

Back then, the road north was narrow and winding here there and everywhere but mainly south of Taihape, so I duly bought my first Porsche, which could handle the sharp bends at speed. Two more Porsches followed up until 1970.

In England in the late 1960s I observed a car I thought was the

Second car: Simca Etoile.

BMW: comfortable but forgettable. Sir Bob Jones

Photo: Gerald Rillstone

epitome of elegance, a Jensen Interceptor.

It was then the most expensive car in Britain, far more costly than a Rolls Royce.

It also reflected my sole reason for my interest in cars, namely aesthetics.

I persuaded Tony Shelley of Shelley Motors to use some of his import license and bring me one in at great expense. It was a disaster. It weighed several tons, did eight miles to the gallon, and rarely went for more than a fortnight without breaking down.

By then the wider public were becoming car owners, always second-hand as the few license holders in those days sold new ones to mates (the same mates every year), who gave them the year-old one, which fetched a price significantly higher than the next replacement new model and then split the profit with the dealer.

Jinxed Jensen

Up until about 1975, our towns had numerous small car mechanic operations, often one-man bands, dotting the landscapes.

That’s because cars constantly broke down and were into the mechanic to be fixed at least half a dozen times annually.

People would talk about “their” mechanic, much as they might their dentist, vis-a-vis his skills. This however, led to a problem with the Jensen Interceptor.

Eventually every mechanical service in Lower Hutt and Wellington refused to touch it as the mechanics found it too demoralising, knowing the repairs lasted only a week or so.

So I parked it in the garage and bought a conventional car for about six months, before eventually buying my first Jaguar.

Then a miracle occurred.

I was contacted by a Christchurch car fanatic who’d heard I had a Jensen Interceptor and bought it off me.

I celebrated and bought a fancy and expensive Ferrari. It was a nightmare, incredibly bumpy, and had a manual gear shift, which inexplicably I discovered car fanatics liked.

In total there were five Jensen

It said the problem with the car is the fingermarks on the side windows, from blokes staring in looking at the dashboard, and by God they were right. This baffles me but it’s true; the male obsession with gazing at dashboards mystifies me.

Jones v Kirk

In those days most of my friends always registered their cars in bogus names using a box number address and thus ignored parking fines.

However, with the Datsun 240Z I registered it in the name of

Norman Kirk, c/o Parliament, Wellington, New Zealand.

My Sydney industrial manager Andy drove it all the time unless I was in Sydney and claimed over two or three years he discarded over $100,000 of traffic tickets, a lot of money back then.

This led to an extraordinary episode Sir Basil Arthur recounted to me.

Basil was a good bloke. He was the MP for Timaru and had been the Shadow Minister for Transport throughout the 1960s Holyoake years.

Interceptors in New Zealand then. I made enquiries out of curiosity with two of them, who denied any problem. But I delved further and found it wasn’t so; they simply didn’t want to admit it.

Then I received a letter from the Jensen Interceptor manufacturers saying two of their directors were touring the world to visit Jensen owners and would like to host the five owners to dinner in Auckland.

I replied saying if they set foot in New Zealand I’d have them arrested for fraud. They cancelled the trip and not long afterwards went broke.

So thereafter, with one exception in Sydney, up until about mid-1980s, I drove Jaguars.

The exception arose when driving with my Sydney manager out west to look at an industrial building, I spotted a beautiful-looking car mounted on a platform in a large dealers’ outfit.

It was a Datsun 240Z, a truly elegant and beautiful vehicle.

I bought it. They gave me a pertinent sales booklet, this being the first 240Z in Australia.

After the 1972 election, he sat in his office waiting for Kirk’s call. In due course it came, and he went in.

He told me Kirk said, “Basil, I’m making you Minister of Transport and your first job is to get that bastard Jones.”

“Which particular bastard Jones do you have in mind?” Basil queried. It transpired Kirk had made enquiries and found out it was my car in Sydney.

What followed was a disgrace costing the taxpayer a fortune. For two years the department employed private detectives who photographed me parking outside my Lower Hutt office building each day, recording when I arrived and left and photographing the parking tickets.

This costly exercise cost the taxpayer a fortune and culminated in a truly hilarious day-long court case in which I gave evidence of my sins.

As I said, back then everyone I knew in those non-computer days registered their cars in bogus names and ignored traffic tickets.

Sir Bob owned three Porsches.

Datsun 240Z- elegant and beautiful.

Jaguar: choice of the 1980s.

Jensen Interceptor: nothing but trouble.

Court case

It was a highly amusing court case. I was represented by Mike Camp, later a QC, who came up with a devious ploy that worked, resulting in the case being thrown out.

In later years I raised this affair with Muldoon, Lange and Mike Moore, who all said it was typical of Kirk and they would have simply ignored the flood of tickets from Sydney.

Unfortunately, it bounced badly on us.

Kirk raised it with the Australian Government, which then introduced a ludicrously excessive regime.

As in Britain today where I have a BMW, now you can’t re-register a car in Australia if there’s even an unpaid parking fine against it. Some time around 1980, for reasons I can’t recall, I switched to large BMWs in Wellington, Sydney and Scotland.

I find them very comfortable but albeit indicative of my general disinterest, on two occasions, one here at Wellington airport and again in Scotland, I’ve had to get a taxi as I can’t recall what colour my BMW is!

That’s no longer a problem here as for decades I’ve had a private jet to overcome the horror of my experience with Air New Zealand. So, my interest in cars is purely aesthetic, as I know nothing about them.

Future fleet

Mindful of the world-wide trend, in advanced economies of pedestrianisation, which I wholeheartedly endorse, I see the future of cars in cities being the tiny twoseater one sees in Paris.

I have a Parisian home but doubt I’ll ever buy a car there, not least

What you're telling us

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.

because the home is mainly used by my Lisbon-based eldest son, and an ex-wife, both Uber users. For me it’s a walking city But notwithstanding global warming et al, I believe the private car is here to stay for rational reasons. There’s no contradiction with prime CBD pedestrianisation, rather it’s a matter of sensible street planning.

That said, family cars today are not only elegant but effectively minimised in size and the days of the large cars, as per America in the 1950s, are well and truly over. People have asked me why I’ve never bought a Rolls Royce. Firstly, they look bloody silly without a chauffeur.

Secondly, they’re bulky and thus cause problems I can do without, parking etc.

A night with a Knight

With energy, wit and tales as sharp as the day he first hit the headlines, an evening with Sir Bob Jones didn’t disappoint.

From the first call, he was straight to the point. Having answered the phone immediately – "call me Bob" he barked - the property magnate was quick to point out he wasn’t really a car person but had owned a few memorable ones. But come over and we’ll go out for dinner, he said.

Come the night and on arrival at his downtown office - a change of plans.

He wanted to watch the Women’s FIFA World Cup match that evening, so we retired to the comfy couches in his commodious office and cracked the seal on quite a few bottles of wine.

With pipe stoked and glass in hand, the stories from a colourful and controversial life flowed for the ensuing hours.

Cars were discussed, as well as the future of transport in the city, past prime ministers, architecture, hijinks and legendary moments.

And he pressed on me two of his books, which he happily signed.

Sir Bob was in top form and living proof that age is only a number. Gerald Rillstone.

“MTA vouchers bring back happy memories of childhood for me.” My mum was bringing us kids up solo on little money and would buy an MTA voucher each week when she got paid working on the checkout. When she had enough saved up, we would go on a holiday to Christchurch to see family, such happy memories and the vouchers made it easier for her not to spend the money on other things.

It’s always great to hear people’s happy memories of MTA. We have been at the hub of the motor industry for over 100 years, and it is nice to hear our vouchers are making a difference and helping to create special memories.

“What advice do you have around how long it then takes to get a staff member fully qualified for WoF inspection?”

It depends on how the training and testing schedules align, where they are located etc.

Taking this into account it could be 2-5 months start to finish.

1. Conduct MTA WoF training (if they want to)

2. Book and sit VI test from Waka Kotahi

3. Wait for Waka Kotahi CO’s to conduct practical test

“I’m interested in advertising in Radiator Magazine what options are available for members?”

Radiator Magazine, which is distributed to members, offers members free classified advertising in the Businesses For Sale section and Situations Vacant section up to 40 words.

For larger advertisements, quarter page, half page and full page, simply email: advertising.radiator@mta.org.nz

“I am looking at hiring two new staff in the coming months. What sort of background checks should I be doing to make sure all the boxes are ticked?”

Background checks can include criminal checks, driver licence checks, credit checks, visa check, etc. You don’t have to do these checks if they are not relevant to the role (ie there would be no reason to do a credit check on an auto technician).

If the new candidate is required to drive a company vehicle, a Waka Kotahi - driver check will help to make sure they are appropriately licensed drivers

Sir Bob Jones' private jet is a twin-engined Cessna Citation Mustang purchased after a dispute with Air New Zealand.

A road to training

As an apprentice, block courses are things that allow us to attend workshops that teach us things we may not get to do at work, which we need to do in order to complete the tasks of our apprenticeship.

I drove four hours to the West Coast for a five-day block course in Greymouth. The adventure began when my maps took me the fastest route. Little did I know it would take me through farmland, no reception, cattle stops and gravel roads coated in snow.

I’ll be honest, I did not expect Apple Maps to play me like that and I definitely was unsure whether or not I would be seen alive again! Block courses can be super intimidating; I’m always so nervous that I’m not going to know as much as everyone else.

The thing you quickly realise is that everyone is there to learn and most of the time they are in the same boat as you. I have also never met anyone at these things who was unkind or anyone who made me feel stupid for not knowing things.

Being away from home for a week was tough, I missed my dog, I missed routine, I missed my gym and I missed home-cooked meals A LOT!

Weirdly enough, I found myself lying in bed on the Thursday night thinking about how I was sad this course was coming to an end. By the end of the week, I felt smart, I felt confident and I felt proud of what I had achieved.

Into the workshop

In the first hour of the course we left the classroom and went down to the workshop, never to see the classroom again. The first practical I had to do was replacing two head gaskets on two engines. I was shown to my first engine, shown my tools and told to get started and to ask any questions when I needed. Uhh… help!

The most I had done so far in this area was adjusting valve clearances and the odd alternator or timing belt job. Instant panic set in (one of my talents) - where do I

waiting and there was no stress that the people teaching me had to balance that with their own jobs; their job was to help us.

Learnt a lot

start? I’m never going to pass this course, I have no clue what I’m doing!

The truth is that it wasn’t as scary as my brain had made it out to be. It was a fairly big job, yes, but I was there to learn. There were two very supportive tutors there, Warren and Adrian, who were solely there to listen, give advice, and help out. There was no stress of customers

One thing I learnt over that week was that over my past two years in this industry, I have learnt a hell of a lot. There is a lot more learning to do, but if I compare what I know now with my day one, it's impressive. The worst part is that I don’t realise I have learnt so much. I assume I don’t know the answer and I lack confidence when it comes to figuring things out. Most the time I have the answer on the tip of my tongue but usually I will assume I’m probably wrong. My tutors at Tai Poutini Greymouth made the learning atmosphere and the course itself an incredible experience. The best feeling was that I often wasn’t told the answers that I required. I found that instead, I was given prompts in order for me to work out the answer myself, and every time it surprised me that I managed to figure it all out. Ninety percent of the time I had the information; I just didn’t know that I knew it. In the end I actually found it a little overwhelming, for a good reason. The feeling of

success when I managed to work my answer out or complete a job, or when I joined the dots of information together and realised that I knew the information. The fact that the tutor believed in me and pushed me hard to dig deep into my prior knowledge to answer my own questions contributed to me beginning to believe in myself. When I was given my block course plan, I could’ve thought of a few better places to spend it, maybe Queenstown or Wellington. The crazy thing is that now I’ve got my fingers crossed that my next course is back in Greymouth too. Not only do they have the great facilities that I had heard of, but they also have two amazing tutors who bring the experience together to make a top-tier education. So I just want to say thank you. Adrian and Warren if you are reading this, words cannot describe the emotions I have when I think back to this one week. The high standards of education you provided were epic and the support and the learning environment you have worked hard to create is outstanding. Thank you for helping me to believe in myself and thank you for believing in me.

I missed my dog Indie.

A night out with cocktails.

I stayed in Methven and played golf.

Me and my mate Rochelle.

Osciliscope work at my block course.

Meet Mercedes Mulder, a young apprentice who’s going places. Mercedes shares her thoughts on work and life every second month in Radiator.

parties in the past year should bear fruit with far more realistic policies around immigration, learning and training and better balance to the competing issues of sustainability and letting the market prosper. Our own training and development portfolio has increased phenomenally, and you will soon see a complete compendium of all the training and development capabilities MTA can bring to your businesses. New business opportunities abound with movements towards sustainability, and we remain committed to promoting in-service emissions testing as the biggest bang for buck improvement possible across the total fleet.

The Bright Blue Badge continues to grow in recognition and importance as a quality mark, and we have made progress in the objective standardssetting side of our guarantee, as well as publicly supporting our consumer promise.

View from the bridge

When I became President of MTA, it followed a five-year period of both great success and extreme challenges.

We’d celebrated our centenary in 2017, then been plunged in to the Covid-19 pandemic, through which we worked tirelessly to support members to survive and adapt.

As we emerged from the pandemic, it was clear that with a substantially changed political landscape after the landslide Labour victory, MTA needed to take a different and more aggressive approach to help members achieve the best outcomes, safeguard their businesses and deal with many new challenges.

This coincided with a period of extensive Government expansion in Wellington, which exacerbated the difficulty in finding resources for MTA to operate successfully.

In early 2022 we held an extensive strategic review, with the help of

experts in societal and business trends, and with key staff.

We called this FOCUS 2026 –identifying the key things MTA needed to focus on to assist members through this period of rapid change.

The challenges distilled down to:

• Shortage of skills and staff for members business

• The acceleration and implications of environmental thought; on business operating issues, the composition of the fleet, and approaches to almost everything in our environment

• The importance of bringing new business to our members, as all indicators pointed to ever-increasing operating and compliance costs, and the need to spread these over more business to be viable

• The importance of the Bright Blue Badge, what it means to current and future generations, and how to shore up value to our members.

Two years on, it is interesting to take stock and see where we have made progress, and what needs to be accelerated or reviewed.

I am very pleased that we now have offices in both Wellington and Auckland, with some regional staff, in secure earthquake-rated buildings at a lower overall cost than the previous Wellington office. This gives us more options in recruiting the best people and ample room and facilities to execute our strategies.

We have many new skills on board, with a fresh emphasis on dealing with central Government and influencing policy. After interim leadership under Ian Pike during the transition phase, I am very pleased we have secured a CEO of the calibre of Lee Marshall to lead us into the future.

Our policy work has significantly influenced immigration and labour settings, and our work with political

We have taken a stronger lead on overall industry issues, and established much closer and more influential relationships with many of our specialised sister organisations with overlapping interests.

With a new website, Toolbox and other new technologies we are ready for an electronic future in everything we do. Financially, the organisation is in very good shape despite some hits on the equity markets and discretionary concessions around member subs from Covid-19 and

Covid-19 posed many challenges for MTA and our members.

weather events. We look forward to bolstering the position more during the rest of my term.

So, it is fair to say we are substantially on the way to the 2026 vision. But we still have work to do.

Our progress on youth engagement, to interest future employees in the industry and to transmit the value

of MTA to new generations coming through, has not moved as fast as I had hoped, and we will be addressing this challenging area with new energy over the coming period. We also have yet to tackle the shape of future sector and membership types as technology and perspectives change - this next phase will focus on

the value proposition by membership type, and we can improve the clarity and value of MTA in this context. I thank the board and all the staff, old and new, who have contributed bravely and energetically to the challenges of transformation over the past two years, and I am really excited about accelerating progress as we go forward.

We assisted members during the devastating flooding earlier this year.

MTA President Bob Boniface reflects on two years in office, and the challenges ahead.

Bob Boniface addresses the audience at the launch of MTA’s political manifesto, 'Driving New Zealand Forward'.

Carbon credits trading made simple

Christchurch EV specialist dealer Dave Boot should know a thing or two about carbon credits. He collects swathes of them thanks to the Clean Car Standard (CCS), but when it came to cashing them in, he discovered more problems than solutions.

Dave had been contemplating creating a safe online carbon credits platform for car dealers to buy and sell carbon credits for some time.

Now he’s got it up and running, and the open shares trading programme makes sure the credits are legitimate, the money is paid securely, and the market decides the price.

“Without having an open platform, it would be down to backroom deals happening ,which can be highly risky for the buyer and the seller,” says Dave, the MTA chair for the Coast to Coast region. And what they sell for is crucial to all in the business.

“It’s a massive forecasting issue for dealers because they need to be factoring them into the retail price of what they are selling.”

Fruit salad

The CCS as it exists rates a car

on its tailpipe emissions. The level at the moment is 145 grams per kilometre and Dave is of the view it is a bit misguided.

“The legislation was written with the idea that dealers would become a 'fruit salad' yard, bringing in some high-emission and some low-emission vehicles so it would average out and they wouldn’t have to pay a fine,” Dave says.

“But that doesn't suit today’s market where there are a lot of specialisations, dealers who have identified their niche and are good at what they do”.

Credits use by date

There is a level of difficulty to the credits and Dave says many dealers may not understand that just because they have received credits from their clean imports doesn’t mean they will have them forever.

“There is a lot of variation in them because Waka Kotahi credits only last for a minimum of three years, so any credits I attract this year at any stage of the year have an expiration date of 31 December 2026, but then some have a four-year life span if they were compiled on the first day of 2023. “Next year's credits will last for a different amount of time so there will be credits on the platform that have different expiry dates and Waka Kotahi has coded them to show this.”

If a dealer gets caught with too many credits and no one to buy them at the end of the year, then they are worth nothing.

“The fine this year and the next is $18 (per gram) and after that it goes to $27.

“Over time the tailpipe emission limits will come down from 145 grams to 130 grams and so on until it gets to somewhere around

62 grams, so it is a double-edged sword and there will be less supply of credits and more demand.”

Next year dealers selling new cars that are over the CO2 threshold will need to buy credits and the fee will be higher: $36 per gram.

“The credits are an interesting opportunity but also a massive pain in the arse,” Dave says. For more information, go to Carbontradingcompany.co.nz

Dave Boot.

All the way with SLK

Many MTA staff love vehicles as much as you do, and have a story to tell about them. This month it's Information Technology Manager Brian Rumbelow.

We have a 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK280 Roadster. It’s a three-litre, V6 hardtop convertible that we potter about Aotearoa in, usually Hawke’s Bay or the Wairarapa. Over the years, the car has been updated a little; we don’t want to do too much as the original R171 body shape will be a classic. What’s been done? Starting at the front, the headlights have been replaced with LED units that give the front a sleeker look than the

‘boxy’ original lights. All interior and the rear number-plate lights have been replaced with LEDs too. The original infotainment centre has been replaced with a newer unit. It’s got updateable sat-nav, DVB TV, USB connectors and an SD card reader. The system supports a USB hard disk of up to two terabytes and so far, the largest SD card is 512GB so we have 2.5 terabytes of online media, up-todate sat-nav plus live TV and radio,

a big step up from the original header unit.

A dashcam has been fitted and caught some interesting images, like the one on this page. The car arrived with a cloth mesh wind blocker. We’ve replaced this with a clear one as the mesh was black and restricted rear-view mirror vision at night. We’ve fitted a 'Smart-top' device so that the roof and windows can

be lowered or raised with the factory-issue key fob. You don’t need to be in the car and pressing the button in the centre console. Other minor changes include the wheel bolts (the old ones were showing their age), the hub caps and valve caps. Under the bonnet the fuse box and engine mounts have been replaced; other than that the engine has been solid. Consumables

Automotive events 2023

SEPTEMBER

Feilding Swap Meet - Saturday 30th September.

such as air filters get replaced as required, as do tyres, wiper blades and fluids etc.

The SLK-Class has a Wikipedia page if you want to find out more, and if any members are interested in the smart top, infotainment system or wind blocker, please drop me a line at brian.rumbelow@mta.org.nz

Hosted by the Manawatu Branch of the Vintage Car Club of NZ, this automotive (mainly) swap meet is the only event in New Zealand to be completely under cover. Manfeild Park, Feilding.

OCTOBER

Classic Car Run 2023 — BREWTOWN Upper Hutt Saturday 21 Oct, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

27 Blenheim Street, Upper Hutt. Rev up your engines and mark your calendars for an unforgettable celebration of automotive elegance.

Targa New Zealand 2023 a five-day event from 24-28 October.

Documentation and scrutineering on Monday 23 October 2023 at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park.

Laid Out At The Lake 2023 - Saturday 28 October.

Is a Minitruck and Lowrider show (other cars are welcome but they MUST be on airbags or hydraulics for entry).

Held at the Great Lake Centre in Taupo. Show entry is $10 per vehicle and $2 per passenger, kids under 12 free.

Kapiti road trip.

At Stonehenge Wairarapa.

Dashcam footage - You shall not pass: Police roadblock during the 2022 Parliament occupation.

Scan the QR code below to see webSAM in action. The Product Modernisation Project is the biggest investment in Auxo Software’s history. Our immediate goal is to build an easy-to-use system that will provide workshop owners more spare time, happier customers

First insights into the future for SAM and ORION

By Auxo Chief Executive David Murdoch

It’s hard to believe that it has been almost three years since MTA purchased Auxo Software’s SAM, Orion and Systime automotive IT businesses.

Over that time, there has been a huge amount of positive change in the Auxo business. This is the first in a series of Radiator articles in which we will bring MTA members up to speed with the changes to date at Auxo and what you can expect to see going forward. It’s great to have the opportunity to talk to you directly.

Since MTA acquired Auxo in late 2020, the hunt has been on to determine how we can bring stateof-the-art look, feel, features and underlying technologies to the loyal Auxo customer base, and of course to new users here and elsewhere.

After an extensive global search for existing software systems which would meet the needs of Kiwi customers,

none were found to be sufficiently robust or fit for purpose.

In late 2022, the decision was taken by the Auxo and MTA Boards to develop a new contemporary platform for SAM and ORION replacements, as well as all future product lines. Funding was approved in the first quarter of 2023, and the project commenced shortly afterwards.

A new, in-house product development team has been established and is working closely with a team of offshore code writers to build the new product. Additional, experienced people have been brought in at the governance level to ensure the success of the project.

Two user groups have already been set up to work with the development team, one representing the smaller workshop, and one representing the more sophisticated end of the ‘power user’ group.

The new product, as yet unnamed, will start to roll out in mid-2024. Expect every benefit of a modern, cloud-based software product; easy connectivity, mobile compatibility, as well as artificial intelligence to help make time-consuming tasks easy. Future benefits will include benchmarking, interfaces with other software and many other features aimed at lifting workshop profitability.

In the meantime, it has been imperative to keep the existing products of SAM and ORION up to date, and constantly improve and add features as required.

Those users who have a more pressing need for a web-based product also have the option of webSAM. webSAM is a modern, easy-touse workshop management system that integrates nicely with Xero and works particularly well for smaller workshops.

I’d like to share with you some feedback from webSAM customers:

“The webSAM diary is pretty damn good. I can see what’s on the books immediately and go let’s take on more work,” from Devin Ashton, Premier Mechanical.

“The time savings far outweighs the cost of the System,” from Pickett Automotive.

Nice to hear, but the there’s still plenty more work for us to do.

The Auxo customer support team has been expanded by 30 percent over the past two years to support these existing products, and customer feedback is that this is really starting to make a difference. Some of the connectivity and speed issues of the past are out of Auxo’s control, but the new products will have none of these issues.

With a legacy of over 20 years providing systems for the majority of the country’s workshops, the Auxo team is well aware that the future roll out of new technologies must be spectacularly ‘on point’ with modern needs, and with MTA behind the business, we are confident this will be achieved.

Elements of code are written, and aspects of the new product line will be available to view at various roadshows and events from the new year. The first implementations for smaller workshops will be around mid-2024. Those customers who have more complex needs will need to be a little patient for their solutions to roll out - however, this is a 20-year revision, and the wait will be worth it.

and a healthier bank balance. We have an amazing team working on this and look forward to sharing more info with our customers, and MTA members, in the coming months.

Our Auxo development team at one of their whiteboard sessions

Engineering Lead Osmar Silva (circled) with the off-shore development team (Code HQ) based in Vietnam.

webSAM’s Technician Web App

The webSAM diary

Blast from the Past

Every month we revisit the pages of Radiator from 25 years and 75 years ago.

Bringing e-bikes to the backblocks

Hawera MTA member and South Taranaki District Councillor Andy Beccard is doing his bit for sustainability by diversifying into e-bikes and e-scooters alongside a busy workshop.

Beccard Motors is a 30-minute drive from Mount Taranaki and a hub of the rural community, supplying services to the surrounding farmers.

As e-bikes and e-scooters became more and more popular, Andy spotted a gap in the local market.

“Like most things we do in the business, no one else is doing it and that’s how we got into them,” Andy says.

“We have a showroom, so there was space to sell them and they have been especially popular.

“It’s allowed us to add an extra part to the business, and we do repairs and service them in our workshop.”

Andy reckons one of the reasons for the rise in the popularity of e-bikes is they allow exercise without strain, and owners tend to ride them more often than they would a conventional bike.

There’s also an e-bike model for off-road riding, he says, which has fatter tyres. They’re proving to be popular with farmers, who use them to get around the farm and check on stock because they are light and quiet-running, making them less invasive than a motorbike.

“The bikes are getting better technology-wise too - they are more reliable and are getting more powerful,” he says.

“We generally sell them to older people and a lot of people who have got campervans; the younger guys are buying the electric scooters.”

Andy’s keen on them also and often jumps on an electric scooter to get around town, but it doesn’t mean he is a complete convert to the EV revolution.

“I enjoy driving fast cars too,” he says.

Two jobs, one town

As a district councillor and a local business owner, Andy’s time is precious, but he’s fortunate in that the workshop he built in 2002 in the centre of Hawera is less than a stone’s throw from the South Taranaki District Council office. He first joined the council 21 years ago when he owned the service station at Normanby, four kilometres out of Hawera. He has no doubt being a business owner

helped when it came to gaining votes and he’s topped the polls in most of the seven elections.

Andy’s motivation to stand for the district council came about because he wanted to have a say in the district’s infrastructure plan. He has lived his whole life in the area and wanted to see it looked after.

“There was a long-term investment fund that I was interested in helping with and that’s what attracted me.

“We have now done a lot of the planned investment in infrastructure, spent the money and everything is in place for growth.

“Unlike a lot of other councils, we are where we should be and we have just put in a business hub too,” he says.

It also helps that his wife, Jan, also works in the business and there is a secret to the success of their working relationship, Andy says.

“Jan tells me what to do, and I do it.”

Andy Beccard.

The team at Beccard Motors Hawera.

2023 Opel Astra SRi

Opel’s local range grows with the introduction of the Astra. Does this fivedoor hatch fill the brief for those wanting a ‘premium German offering’?

The local Opel range has welcomed the new Astra. That’s a nameplate that hasn’t been around here for a few years, and last time we drove one it had a Holden badge attached to it.

Opel New Zealand was hoping to have more than just one model to launch with but the plug-in hybrid has been delayed, arriving soon.

So at present it’s just the SRi that we have, a high-spec Euro hatch wearing a price tag of $49,990.

Does the Astra get a rebate?

Well, it did until the Government changed the rules. Being Euro-sourced with a ‘right-sized engine’ as you might call it, it has a lower overall

emissions profile thanks to its 1.2-litre turbopetrol. This a Euro 6d compliant unit, complete with a particulate filter to help clean up the exhaust soot. With consumption quoted at 5.1L/100km and CO2 output of 117g/km, it would have netted buyers a handy little rebate of $2,593 but now it falls into the neutral zonewhich is better than paying a fee.

The plug-in GSe will get a rebate but it will also cost more, likely in line with what Peugeot charges for its 308 hybrid, which is $75k.

You might want to hold off to see what the new electric version of Astra is like as it has been launched in Europe and due here sometime next year.

It has a range of up to 416km thanks to a 54kWh battery and efficiency of 14.9kWh/100km (WLTP). It’ll have a 115kW/270Nm motor, an 11kW onboard charger, while a 0-80 per cent charge at 100kW DC is said to take 30 minutes. There’s even a wagon version, but don’t even think about it.

Looks the part

The Astra cuts a dashing figure amongst hatches. People like the look, more than a few calling it ‘snazzy’. Opel says it has ‘muscle car’ looks, and it was described to us as being ‘aggressive’ but we prefer the term ‘dynamic’; the former makes it sound like it wants to run you over.

And it looks like a winner in its gold hue (actually Amber Yellow), which is the only one that comes without an extra cost; the other six colours add between $500 and $950.

As sales in the hatch domain are rather limited these days, the buyers who are left aren’t after a base model stripper but rather a more premium, feature-rich offering.

And that goes some way to explaining the price tag, as there are not many things omitted from the specification list here.

There are most of the now usual safety features with lane keeping (not too bothersome either), speed limit recognition (quite good at keeping tabs on ever-changing speed zones), and collision avoidance systems that detect pedestrians and cyclists, even at night (didn’t experience any of that, mind you).

Overall, it has a four-star safety rating from ANCAP. The adaptive cruise has the extended stop-and-go function and with the lane-positioning function, it can take care of mild steering inputs on the motorway for you. This is all easy to set via the steering wheel buttons.

Cabin classy too

Like the exterior design, the interior’s just as interesting with some spiffy flourishes, yet it’s all still rather practical. Most of the trims used help impart that premium feel they are aiming for, and these blend well with the more utilitarian plastics below. The seats are a bit special (described Germanically as ‘ergonomic sportsstyle’) with Alcantara and leatherette trimming. The form and fit are spot on, the adjustment too (powered for the

driver) and there’s a just-right lumbar pump.

The driver’s seat is heated too, as is the steering wheel, which is great for warming cold paws in the morning. The bolsters are about right as they don’t hinder access, which is pretty good for a hatch.

Coupled with a decent range of adjustment at the wheel, most will be afforded a good driving position (although the centre console robs some knee room) while outward vision is sound.

There’s a configurable digi instrument panel, though it’s all but redundant given most of the driving info is neatly displayed in the head-up area, including the trip data and what the driver-assist features are up to.

Words: Kyle Cassidy Photos: Isaac Western Article supplied by NZ Autocar

The interface of the infotainment system is customisable. You can add your preferred shortcuts to the home screen, while some functions can be handled by the 'Hey Opel' voice control.

There’s no sat-nav but there is wireless smartphone connection. A proper 360-degree camera is a feature of this Opel, which even gives a decent portrayal of the surroundings and it works superbly at night too.

Passengers in the rear will be asking those up front to spare them some room; it’s not the most spacious offering in the class in this regard. There was way too much squabbling from our three in the back, a sign of compromised space. The boot, rated at 422 litres (presumably when the floor is set to its lower position), is big enough, however. Along with conventional split folding, there is also a ski hatch - very European.

There is no spare, however, just a repair kit.

Goes okay but?

Despite it getting on in age, the 1.2-litre triple still does the job okay in the urban grind, making good torque at lower engine speeds where you need it most. However, compared with newer electrified powertrains, it can feel a tad sluggish for response.

Sometimes the auto is a little slow to respond, or the idle/stop function can be too proactive in switching the engine off, usually right when you want to get going again.

These are issues mainly if you’re running behind schedule and you can either hit the Sport mode or flap the paddles to stir it along, while sending the auto stop/start on a break takes two quick taps on the screen.

As to gas gobbling, the long-term average for this car over 1,400km was sitting at 8.1L/100km, which was about what we experienced for our

week of driving too (8.6L/100km). This shares underpinnings with the 308, and drives in a similar fashion. We prefer Opel’s proper steering wheel, however, as it just feels better. The assistance has a consistent weighting and good connection with the turning wheels.

The ride can be a bit sharp at times, and it feels quite lumpy over poor highway surfaces. It does turn into the corners nicely, however, and the level of grip offered by the Michelin Primacy rubber is decent, though there is some rumble on rough chip.

The powertrain isn’t a powerhouse but it proves quick enough, especially with lowered limits about the place; you’re less likely to get into trouble here.

So is it Euro premium enough?

The style, build quality and the drive are all decent, so too the specification. And against its Euro rivals it’s on the money, the exact same ask as the VW Golf R-line. The Cupra Leon is another rival, slightly cheaper but not quite as well equipped, while it's relation the 308 is slightly more expensive, but we prefer the Opel on looks and because it has a proper steering wheel.

Smoko Stumpers

Test your knowledge on automotive matters with our five-minute quiz.

1. The Spirit of Ecstasy is the hood ornament of which luxury car brand?

2. What year did New Zealander Denny Hulme win the Formula 1 World Drivers Championship?

Model: Opel Astra SRi

Price $49,990

Clean Car Discount Neutral – $0

Engine 1,199cc, IL3, T, DI

Power 96kW@5,500rpm

Torque 230Nm@1,750rpm

Drivetrain 8-speed auto/FWD

Fuel use 5.1litres/100km

C02 output 117g/km

0-100km/h 9.7seconds

Fuel capacity 52 litres

Stability systems ABS, ESP, TV

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

Luggage capacity 422- 1,339 litres

Tow rating 680kg (1,400kg braked)

Service intervals 12 months/15,000km

Warranty 5 years/100,000km

ANCAP rating 4 stars (2022)

Weight 1,296kg (claimed)

3. Who is the Minister for Transport as at 1 August 2023?

4. In what year did wearing seatbelts become compulsory in New Zealand?

5. What was the name of the light utility vehicle produced in New Zealand between 1978 and 1982?

Answers

5. The Trekka

4. 1972

3. David Parker

2. 1967

1. Rolls-Royce

Please remain seated

Aftermarket seats and seat mounts are not all created equal, and some are not created well at all.

Many LVVTA Radiator articles have been written about modification threshold requirements, including when seats can be replaced in a vehicle without it requiring LVV certification. Replacing an unstressed seat in a vehicle can include the fitment of aftermarket seat rails - providing these are compatible with both the seat and vehicle. Because an unstressed seat assembly can sometimes be fitted to a vehicle without LVV certification, it’s important that AVIs are aware of what to look for when presented with a vehicle that has aftermarket seats, seat runners, or mounting rails. There are various low-quality products available from online retailers, and these should be treated with caution.

Unstressed

As a refresher, a seat is referred to as ‘unstressed’ if no part of the seatbelt assembly is attached to the seat or rails – ie, both of the lower anchorages are in the floor, inner sills, or transmission tunnel, and the upper anchorage is attached to an adjacent pillar or cant rail. Likewise, if any part of the seatbelt assembly is attached to the seat or rails, this is considered ‘stressed’. An unstressed seat can be changed without LVV certification, providing the listed criteria in the VIRM Threshold are met. Modifications to a stressed seat are far stricter –essentially, unless the replacement seat comes from the same make

and model of vehicle, and is attached to unmodified mounts, it will need LVV certification. The reason for the difference in requirements is to do with restraining vehicle occupants in a crash. Because a stressed seat and its mountings need to withstand the combined weight of both the seat and occupant, when under a force of at least 20g (in other words, 20 times their mass under normal gravity), LVV certification is needed to ensure the seat and its attachments are designed, tested, and mounted in a way that is sufficient to withstand this.

Unstressed seat mounts only need to restrain the weight of the seat at a force of 20g, as the weight of the

occupant is taken by the separately mounted seatbelt. Obviously, this is a significant difference in weight (and therefore applied force) during a crash. If an unstressed seat mount were to fail in a crash, there is less risk of injury to an occupant, as they aren’t relying solely on the seat mounts to restrain them. There are numerous poor quality aftermarket seats and seat rails

The VIRM defines a seat as "an assembly, or part of an assembly, intended to seat at least one person, which may or may not be integral to the structure of the vehicle, and includes components, such as rails and runners, that attach to the seat anchorages."

available that can avoid the need for LVV certification if they are unstressed - sometimes it’s up to an AVI to assess their function and construction.

Some things for an AVI to be aware of:

• Look at the construction of the seat base and runners – do they use all of the OE attachment points between the seat and the floor? If the mounting points to the vehicle have been changed, or there are additional points added, this will tip the vehicle into requiring LVV certification.

• According to the VIRM Threshold wording, aftermarket unstressed seats must be from a "known and reputable aftermarket brand". If there are no identifying features or markings on the seat, and it looks homemade or there are other concerns about it, technically it will need to be assessed by an LVV certifier.

• Condition – this is a bit of a giveaway for design and longevity. The over-arching Land Transport Rule states: "seats and seat anchorages in a motor vehicle must be safe, strong, in sound condition, in good working order and compatible in strength with each other and with the vehicle’s structure".

Things like abnormal play in the sliding runners, or signs of the seat mounts flexing when a load is applied are indicative of a seat mounting that is not up to the task. Flexing will, over time, cause cracking and ultimately failure of the seat mountings.

• Buckle accessibility – high-sided bucket seats may not work with OE seatbelt anchorages, as the buckles may be obstructed by the sides of the seats and mounted too low to function effectively. The lap portion of a seatbelt should fit low and snug

across the wearer’s hips, and often this is not possible with a high-sided bucket seat, as the belt will sit across the side bolsters rather than the occupant. The VIRM Threshold wording specifies that in order to avoid LVV certification, the relationship between the seatbelt anchorages and seat must be unaffected.

• An important thing for AVIs to be aware of, is where seatbelt buckles are moved from seat rail to trans tunnel, or floor to seat rail, as this needs LVV certification. This is common for some off-the-shelf seat rail kits, but few have testing data to prove they’re suitable for seatbelt loading. By the same logic, ‘destressing’ an OE stressed seat by moving the seatbelt buckle from the seat to the transmission tunnel is an above-threshold mod, because this affects a seatbelt anchorage.

• Some fixed-back bucket seats are not intended to be fitted to a vehicle still equipped with its rear seating positions. It’s worth keeping in mind the VIRM Interior Impact requirements

when inspecting a vehicle in this scenario, which specifies that "interior fittings, controls and surfaces in the passenger compartments must be such that the likelihood of injury to occupants is minimised". If a hard fibreglass seatback can be struck by a rear seat occupant in a crash, has this adequately minimised the risk of injury to occupants?

• The VIRM Threshold says that aftermarket seat rails for unstressed seats must not be "fitted together by welding" This isn’t intended to prevent an aftermarket manufacturer from constructing a set of seat rails by welding steel sections together, rather it’s intended to prevent a person from welding a set of seat rails to a seat that they would not otherwise fit.

More information about aftermarket sports seats can be found in LVVTA Information Sheet # 02 – 2012, which can be downloaded from the ‘Documents’ tab of the LVVTA website at www.lvvta.org.nz.

The seatbelt buckle mounted to this rail illustrates the issue when reusing OEM seatbelt buckles with high-sided sports seats. Note also that an aftermarket stressed seat mounting like this would require LVV certification.

Aftermarket seats should incorporate padding over sharp edges where they could come into contact with a rear seat passenger.

Why Toolbox Talks never go out of fashion

Workshops are pretty busy places and there’s always an element of change about. That’s what makes Toolbox Talks an essential part of safety in your workshop, because there are hundreds of tools, hundreds of processes and procedures, and of course, there are plenty of hazards and risks. With every Toolbox Talk, an opportunity arises for knowledge sharing, improved understanding, and a better approach to using even those tools you might be highly familiar with. The one place you can teach an old dog new tricks is in the workshop –particularly when new tools or techniques are introduced.

How to run a Toolbox Talk

The first thing about a Toolbox Talk is that it isn’t only about the tools. It is more about knowledge, insights and experiences, and creating a safer workspace by sharing. Running a Toolbox Talk starts with having a plan, and sticking to it. The plan starts with a schedule –once a week, or once every two weeks is a good cadence. Have an agenda for every Talk, and stick to it: for example, introduce any new team members, any new tools or procedures, identify and discuss risks and hazards, review safety controls, and go over any accidents or incidents. You can even have a bit of fun with it –‘fail’ videos are very popular on

YouTube, for example. These can provide excellent ‘learning moments’, because in those ‘fails’ we often see a little bit of ourselves doing things we really know better about. Then get on to the ‘serious’ business of the Toolbox Talk. It is about training and learning, so have a definite idea of what you’ll be covering and get the experts from within your team to lead the discussion and demonstration of specialist expertise or techniques. Involving all your people in the Talk and encouraging an open, non-judgmental environment where everyone can contribute and participate is a must. We all make mistakes and recognising and sharing ‘what went wrong’ can be just as valuable as demonstrating the correct ways to do things.

It’s about engagement

can learn a bit more about their colleagues, while sharing special skills or knowledge.

That’s why acknowledgement of contributions is important. It is also a perfect setting to recognise safe practices, hard work and initiatives improving the way your workshop runs.

Keep track of Toolbox Talks - and every aspect of Health and Safety

You’ve done the mahi, now make sure the records are up to date. While Health and Safety isn’t about filling in forms, evidence of good practice is essential because there will be real consequences from WorkSafe if you can’t provide evidence of your efforts. That’s why we made HSE Connect. By making record-keeping easy, instant and accessible on everyone’s mobile device, you focus on being safe, not on filing paperwork.

All participants must print name and sign Present:

Toolbox Talk

Every successful Toolbox Talk has something in common: it is relatable, it is relevant, and it is valuable to the participants. It makes Health and Safety less about paperwork or onerous rules, and much more about everyone going home with 10 fingers and toes every day. This isn’t a lecture or a half-hour drone sending everyone to sleep. It’s about improving skills and achieving greater understanding. It’s even an opportunity for team building, where everyone in the workshop

Peace of mind, thanks to HSE Connect

Built specifically with WorkSafe in mind, HSE Connect’s easy-touse software already provides peace of mind to hundreds of MTA members. Members get discounted pricing and free set-up. Find out more here: www.hseconnect.co/mta or call HSE Connect on 022 643 1832.

'Future-proof your career' says 2023 scholar

From being a kid who loved cars to growing up an avid motorsport fan, it was a natural progression for Benjamin Handley (Ben) to pursue a career in the automotive industry. Over his 11-year career, spent primarily at Miles Group, Ben has gone from car groomer to apprentice, to qualified technician, to a workshop foreman. Never afraid to take the next step, Ben decided to upskill further this year by enrolling in the MITO –Te Pūkenga New Zealand Certificate in Electric Vehicle Automotive Engineering (Level 5). The programme covers the skills and knowledge needed to safely inspect, service and repair light electric vehicles and includes eLearning, onjob and off-job training. As a selfdescribed petrolhead who enjoys burning fuel, Ben still found the programme interesting. “You learn how intelligent hybrid systems are and how much of an engineering marvel it really is that people have been able to develop these new technologies.”

Ben praised his off-job training tutors from Southern Institute of Technology – Te Pūkenga for being extremely knowledgeable and the MITO – Te Pūkenga eLearning system for being efficient, straightforward and a streamlined way to access resources. Service Manager Bill Potter of the Miles Group agrees, stating, “I’m pretty happy with what he’s bringing back and how MITO – Te Pūkenga has been conducting the training, that’s for sure.”

Recognising the importance of continuing to learn, Ben recommends the Level 5 Electric Vehicle Automotive Engineering programme. “The automotive industry is ever evolving and there’s always new technologies to keep on top of. Failing to do that will hurt in the long run.” He believes the programme has given him a necessary head start. “In the next decade these skills are going to be pretty imperative to everyday mechanics. Automotive technicians will need to know exactly how to not only work on these sorts of vehicles safely, but also how to diagnose effectively when there is a problem.”

Bill also recommends the programme as he sees the benefits

for both the workshop and his customers. “It’ll be something he will draw on daily in his role,” Bill says. “He’ll have the knowledge to pass onto the other technicians on the floor, and also the knowledge and confidence to talk to customers about how their vehicle operates and the functionality of our hybrids.”

Bill also appreciates MITO –Te Pūkenga Training Advisor Lisa Florance for all the care, attention and effort she gives Ben and his team. “She does a fantastic job at keeping the team on track.”

Ben was pleased to receive a 2023 MITO – Te Pūkenga and Inspiring Futures Foundation scholarship, which funded the training programme and acknowledged his hard work.

“He’s energetic, and passionate about the trade,” says Bill who was stoked to hear the news. “He absorbs knowledge well and will retain what’s he’s learnt. It will certainly hold him in good stead for the future.”

Ben thinks anyone thinking of applying for a scholarship should just go for it.

“The more you can improve your skills the better. Future-proof your career.”

To view the 2024 scholarship opportunities, visit mito.nz/ scholarships

Benjamin Handley.

Maya joins MTA Advocacy team

I’m Maya Polaschek, and I’m the new Policy and Legal Advisor at MTA. I have come to MTA after being a graduate policy advisor at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in the Competition Policy team.

I’m a Wellingtonian by birth and spent five years studying at Otago University in Dunedin, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy, Politics and Economics.

I am currently working towards gaining a practising certificate.

While I was studying at Otago University, I was a member of the executive committee of the Otago University Students’ Association, which was also an incorporated member association, so I am very excited to be part of the MTA Advocacy team, bringing that experience with me.

I do enjoy driving, having learned in a 2005 Mazda Demio (which was later stolen and written off) and I currently drive a 2008 Nissan Wingroad. I’m excited to grow my knowledge in the motor trade space, especially during a time of great change. I look forward to supporting advocacy for our members while also developing my own policy and legal skills.

Danny’s decades at MTA

MTA Membership Advisor Danny Garrick has reached a milestone this year, celebrating 20 years working for MTA.

His journey with MTA began two decades ago when Danny took on the job of Product Services Manager in the Marketing team on 3 August, 2003.

Following one of the many restructures over the years, he took on the role of Membership Advisor covering the Lower North Island and Upper South Island.

A shoutout from us all for Danny and his dedication. Traditionally, the 20th-anniversary milestone is associated with the metal platinum. This metal symbolises durability and strength, and in Danny’s case his enduring commitment to the MTA and our members.

kaimai

Kaimai region committee members met in Hamilton last month and discussed a range of issues, from supply chain to innovative member engagement initiatives, and from international hiring prospects to mental health support.

Member engagement lies at the heart of Kaimai's concerted efforts to connect its members through events, aptly named 'mix and mingles'.

These, along with recent visits to Thames and Coromandel by some committee members and MTA staff have been a resounding success. The positivity, enthusiasm, and optimism observed among the members are a testament to the resilience of the Kaimai members.

Amid the hustle and bustle of business endeavours, mental health often takes a backseat. Acknowledging this, Kaimai region is supporting the Eastland region with their event, "Courageous Conversations with Bryce Casey," scheduled for 29 September in Havelock North.

Drawing from approved flood relief funds, the event aims to foster an environment in which discussing mental health is not just encouraged but celebrated.

Beyond business-centric matters, Kaimai is also taking steps to enhance public safety. We are looking into an educational campaign that will focus on correctly and safely fitting car seats, serving as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers.

The momentum in Kaimai shows no signs of slowing down. A host of events and training opportunities lie on the horizon, offering members a chance to further their growth and knowledge. From First Aid and SAM training to the exhilarating Supercar show and the highly anticipated 35+ Year Event in October. Kaimai has something for everyone. To get involved with the Kaimai regional committee, please contact Kim Preston on 027 280 0707 or email kim.preston@mta.org.nz

MTA’s new f irst point of contact: Savanna Caine

Originally from Pietermaritzburg, inland from Durban, in South Africa, Savanna took over the role from Juanita de Villiers, who left MTA for a new position in Christchurch last month.

Savanna first visited New Zealand in 2019 and decided to immigrate, but those plans were put on hold during the Covid-19 pandemic. “I hadn’t travelled at all and wanted to go somewhere to see some of the world, and I’m so glad I chose New Zealand; I really like it here,” she says.

Danny Garrick, MTA Membership Advisor

Success through coaching and inf l uence

Think of the automotive sector as a machine. It’s a complex network of moving parts.

Now think of coaching and influencing as the oil to get them all working together successfully and smoothly.

In the previous issues of Radiator, we discussed the significant role of inclusion and diversity and mental health and wellbeing in retaining talent.

In this issue we’ll look at the power of coaching and influence.

Coaching is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering growth, skill enhancement, and personal development.

One of the primary principles of coaching is empowering individuals to find solutions themselves, fostering critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Training and coaching are both methods of developing skills, however the focus and approach is different.

What’s

the difference?

Coaching primarily focuses on guiding individuals to unlock their own potential, whereas training is more centred on imparting specific knowledge and skills in a structured, systematic manner.

Coaching typically uses questioning and a reflective approach; training often uses instructional methods and demonstrations.

Loretta.thompson@mta.org.nz

Combining both methods supports a good learning experience and the learner is empowered to enhance their self-awareness, overcome challenges and make positive progress.

For instance, when training new technicians to diagnose complex engine issues, coaches can encourage them to approach problems systematically, guiding them through the process while letting them take ownership of the solution.

Influence, in the context of learning, is about using expertise, demeanour, and actions to inspire and guide others. Consider a scenario where a workshop manager takes the time to share the bigger picture and business goals; the manager can instil a sense of purpose, motivating the team to perform their tasks with precision and care to contribute to the result.

Coaching and influence in action

Technical upskilling: In an everevolving industry, coaching can help technicians stay updated with the latest automotive technologies. Coaches can organise regular training sessions and workshops, encouraging employees to embrace learning as a continuous journey. The influence here lies in the coach’s passion for staying ahead of the curve, inspiring others

to do the same.

Customer-centric mindset: In the customer-driven automotive sector, influence plays a pivotal role. A service advisor, through their interactions and approach, can coach mechanics to view each car repair as a chance to ensure the customer’s safety and satisfaction. This approach not only improves customer relationships but also boosts team morale as they see the tangible impact of their work.

Environmental awareness: With sustainability becoming a global concern, influential leaders within the industry can guide teams towards adopting eco-friendly practices. A workshop owner, for instance, could coach employees on reducing waste, using energyefficient equipment, and advocating responsible disposal of automotive materials. Their influence helps create a greener future for both the business and the environment.

Looking ahead

As our automotive industry navigates through technological shifts, regulatory changes, and customer preferences, coaching and influencing will play a pivotal role.

The true mark of success is about building a skilled, motivated, and conscientious workforce that keeps New Zealand moving towards a brighter automotive future.

MTA fuel sector webinar

To help our service station members with hiring, developing, and retaining their staff, MTA is hosting a webinar late in September.

I’d strongly recommend that all fuel sector members put a note in their diaries for this, as it’s going to be great value. We will be utilising our full suite of human resource advisors, our learning and development manager, membership advisors and myself, with the aim of making the resources available to members on the MTA Toolbox.

MTA subject matter experts will share with our members how to implement manageable best business practices to make their business appealing to prospective employees and to boost engagement, development, and retaining current staff. Case studies will be shared where service stations have not used best business practices and procedures, and what this has meant for the business owners and staff. A key

topic of the webinar is how service stations can set themselves up for success as appealing organisations to work for and opportunities for career growth and longevity.

As a sector manager visiting our service station members, a consistent message I have heard over the past two years has been very challenging for business owners and managers, particularly finding staff to help run their service stations.

MTA member advisors have also had conversations with our service station members, with this being an area of concern and difficulty.

You’ve spoken, and we’ve listened.

MTA wants to help our service station members with staffing, developing and retaining their people.

Even though the New Zealand borders for immigrant workers have opened, the labour market for four fuel sector members is still tight and there is a lot of competition in the

convenience retail space, which is playing into the employee’s favour. We want to help members improve the retention of staff and workshop ideas to help keep the sector ahead of the game in attracting staff.

We invite you join us for the service station webinar to hear from MTA subject matter expert staff who want your businesses to succeed and have worked on strategies, pathways, tactics and case studies to support the growth and development of your business and people.

For members in the business, any follow-up conversations or correspondence are also welcome. More details on the webinar will be published via the EDM in September. If you have any enquiries or have a topic you’d like to see addressed, please contact me: mathew.alderdice@mta.org.nz

Mathew.alderdice@mta.org.nz

Holding Government to account

With the election almost here, policy shifts are becoming a daily norm. However, some constants remain. One of them is MTA’s commitment to keep the Government in check, to ensure that policies and actions resonate with the needs and aspirations of the automotive industry.

Why? Because we are more than just statistics on a balance sheet. The $5.5 billion contribution to GDP, while impressive, hardly captures our true essence. From ensuring a student reaches school safely, to helping a family embark on a memorable holiday, our industry is an inseparable part of the Kiwi life.

But how do we align our national aspirations of climate change targets with the realities of household budgets? How can our 60,000 strong workforce adapt to rapid technological changes while grappling with shifts in the education landscape, like the upheaval of ITOs into Te Pūkenga?

Our manifesto of policy calls –Driving NZ Forward - lays out our stance, concerns, and aspirations.

We highlight the need for coherent, consultative policies that resonate with ground realities. Whoever makes up the Government after 14 October can expect to be hearing from MTA. Meanwhile the business of Government goes on In the twilight hours of this Parliament, Transport Minister David Parker finally released the draft Government Policy Statement (GPS) 2024 on land transport for consultation. This essential document sets the Government’s priorities concerning land transport investment over the next decade, guiding expenditure on essentials like public transport, state highway improvements, local roads, and, of course, road safety. The imperative is clear: both the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and our local authorities must adhere to these priorities.

The MTA’s Advocacy team is reviewing the draft GPS. We’ll be making a submission to the Ministry of Transport in due course, once we’ve analysed and assessed the

Brian.anderton@mta.org.nz

document in its entirety.

As part of the GPS, the Labour Government unveiled a transport programme, pinning down 14 key strategic projects earmarked for Waka Kotahi’s consideration.

The Prime Minister says the centrality of these projects is propelling New Zealand towards its full potential by bolstering our economic growth and productivity. In contrast, National’s Transport spokesperson, Simeon Brown, dismissed Labour’s transport plan, pointing out its striking similarity to National’s previously released policy. ACT took a jab at the focus on new roads, accusing them of attempting to sway Kiwis with promises of gleaming new infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Greens expressed strong reservations about this roadcentric approach, calling for a more sustainable rethink.

My take? Transport has unequivocally become an election talking point. Party after party has announced transport and roadbuilding projects. While the release of the draft GPS was anticipated –albeit significantly delayed due to changes in ministerial roles and a refocus on core issues by the Prime Minister – its content still dominated the talkback stations for days. Much of the chatter now revolves around the controversial proposed 12 cent fuel tax increase spread over three years. It is worth noting that this was a formal Government announcement so it will need to be either enacted or changed depending on 14 October.

Jeremy.howe@mta.org.nz

Prabha.raman@mta.org.nz

Devil in the detail for employers

Running a company would be easy if it wasn’t for the staff - a classic cliché, and like many clichés there is a small element of truth in it. Being an employer can be hard, really hard, at times. With the huge swathe of legislation (Human Rights Act, Employment Relations Act, Holidays Act, Employment Standards Legislation Act - the list goes on) as well as the principles of natural justice and the duty of good faith, it is really easy to feel unable to do anything without getting it wrong. And it’s easy to see how things go wrong as often as they do. Recently there have been cases where:

• an employee was found to have been unfairly made redundant and needed to be reinstated into a new position created for him

• a casual employee was in fact a permanent employee and able to claim unjustified dismissal

• staff had unlawfully been underpaid when their wages were unilaterally reduced during the Covid-19 lockdowns

• an employee was held to have been unjustifiably dismissed for not being vaccinated against Covid-19.

• an employee had been incorrectly paid holiday on a ‘ pay-as-you-go ‘ basis and the holiday pay needed to be paid again in full. The amount that had already been paid was disregarded

• Student volunteers were found to also be employees who needed to be paid.

However, it’s not all bad news. Whilst it can feel that all the odds are stacking in favour of the employee, it’s not quite as bad as it might look at a first glance. There are ways to deal with staffing issues fairly, quickly and cost effectively, and that is where the MTA HR team can support you. With highly skilled HR advisors,

Most troubling, the above cases were not instances where the law had simply been misunderstood. Whilst that was the case with some of them, others were due to the procedure being interpreted wrongly, the wrong procedure being followed or a simple breach of good faith and/or natural justice.

With so many different ways to get things wrong, it can be really daunting to look after staff.

we can guide you through this maze of rules and regulations to ensure a healthy employment relationship.

Please don’t hesitate get in touch if you have any staffing issues or questions, and preferably before you have to deal with them. To use another classic cliché, forewarned is forearmed.

Email: hr@mta.org.nz

Taking over from Tapley meters

With the announcement of the removal of the Tapley meter from the VIRM due to come into effect next year, there are a few choices to consider as a replacement to meet the new requirements.

A good choice would be the digital brake decelerometer (DBM). This offers significant advantages to the old Tapley, being more accurate, and lighter to manoeuvre, with no big wooden box to store. These DBMs have been in use for a while, and in my experience in the

Now spring is here, it’s time to strap on your lid and hit the road for some fun on two wheels. By the time you read this, a good number of our members will be returning from the first motorcycle rally after the winter hibernation, the Cold Kiwi. Everyone has a part to play in keeping everyone as safe as possible on our roads.

Car drivers are primarily at fault or part fault in two-thirds of all motorcycle crashes

They often don't see motorcycles or misjudge their speed

mining industry, were the staple for on-site brake testing for anything that had wheels.

The DBMs are easily used, positioned in the vehicle and are robust in design. They were often used on mine sites in severe conditions (some days being around 40 degC!), and with all vehicles requiring six-monthly mine compliance and brake tests, they were used continuously.

Some of the feedback we received last year was members not wanting

They’re encouraged to "Look Again" which increases awareness of the human factors at play Drivers often have little empathy for riders because they see them as reckless.

If you’re a motorist, look out for bikers, please have a think and another look

Don’t forget your gear

Make sure your gear fits correctly and is comfortable, check your helmet for any signs of damage and all padding and latching equipment is up to the

Glen.mcgarry@mta.org.nz

to adopt the new technology for various reasons. To help our members get a handle on these DBMs, we’ll be coming out to many regions over the next six months and bringing two different types of DBMs that are currently available locally for members to use and trial. More good news: MTA is going to give away both these DBMs to members in March. Keep an eye on EDMs for further details!

The future of the automotive industry

MTA Advocacy and Stakeholder Manager Brian Anderton and I recently represented MTA at the PartsTrader Advisory Group meeting. This gathering brought together industry leaders and stakeholders from the collision, insurance, and part supplier sectors, along with PartsTrader staff, to discuss pressing matters, future challenges within the sector and desired improvements in the PartsTrader system.

The event was an excellent opportunity to establish open dialogue and collaboration. Our representation ensured that the voices of MTA collision members were not only heard but actively considered.

Larry.fallowfield@mta.org.nz

task and gloves and boots are in top condition.

As much as I love riding, there are some stats that affect riders, no matter how good you are or think you are

Open road riders:

• are involved in nearly three quarters of fatal motorcycle crashes

• often lose control on bends and curves in motorcycle-only crashes

• make up 70 percent of all fatal crashes on the open road due to overtaking and head-on crashes

• aged between 40 and 59 account for 55 percent of all fatal crashes

• sustain more severe injuries because they ride in higher speed environments

• are involved in 61percent of motorcycle claims including fatal and serious injury

Stay safe out there.

It was great to be involved and hear the insightful aspects that the speakers presented. I would like to thank Isaac, Jeff and to the greater PartsTrader team for getting key stakeholders into the room and discuss the current and future challenges that we should work on together.

Brian and I provided insights into the key issues that we are hearing from MTA members, and we also had the opportunity to present on the MTA manifesto that we released at Parliament earlier this year.

Relevant key drivers within the current collision repairer space were highlighted, including: technology changes, artificial intelligence, collaboration, staff shortages, environmental responsibility, youth engagement, quality parts supply, streamlined processes, vehicle endof-life recycling, increased use of recycled parts, repair vs replace, and trying to repair vehicle vs total loss, along with electrified vehicles and the challenges that they bring.

From the list of topics, a lot of pain points were highlighted or discussed by industry and the PartsTrader team, all are current and key issues in the automotive repair sector, but how we interact and use technology to solve the current pressing issues is the next key driver.

The major takeaway for me, was how likeminded the diverse stakeholders were, and the areas of commonality that we are all trying to solve, it also re-enforced the work that MTA has done in our next Government document – 'Driving New Zealand Forward', the synergies across the stakeholder presentations and our future focus summed up the need for more industry alignment and to better understand the need of working together to achieve industry desired outcomes.

It will take time to break down the silos that we all work in, but if we work together, we could implement the required changes quicker. The big question is, how do we do that?

For several years we have worked closely with other industry associations to achieve better outcomes for our MTA members, and we need to extend that work beyond associations and get industry stakeholders' engagement to drive the sector forward.

Murray McChesney, National Assessing Manager for Tower, presents at the PartsTrader Advisory Group meeting.

Keeping up with sector challenges

It’s been a busy month for me after taking over the dealer sector role from Tony Everett, who retired after nearly two decades with MTA. I have added the dealer sector to my current portfolios of collision repairs and light-vehicle recovery and storage, which all work together to ensure we keep our country moving. There’s no doubt the automotive sector has great people who are all working hard to keep our economy buoyant.

When Tony started with MTA back in 2004, the top-five selling vehicles were the Toyota Corolla, Ford Falcon, Holden Commodore, Toyota Hilux and Mazda Bounty. Some of you may still remember those days.

Tony has massive industry knowledge and I thank him for everything he has done for the sector over the past 19 years.

And he has been of great assistance in getting me up to speed with past and current challenges in the dealer sector.

Since starting my career as a car painter back in the early 1980s, I’ve had contact with a lot of dealers across New Zealand and Australia. Some of those business names may be long forgotten, the likes of NZ Motor Corp, Mike Steele Yamaha, and Automotive Holdings Group. Others I’ve dealt with are still wellrecognised and I look forward to getting to know more in this space. Having held senior roles in the automotive coating industry, I’ve experienced first-hand parts of the sector that not everyone has had an opportunity to see.

New vehicles

A total of 9,809 units in August, 33 percent below the same month last year, due to the advance registration activity that occurred in June on the back of CCD changes. The market is down 6.4 percent across the eight months of the year.

I have toured original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sites across Australasia with GM/Holden, Ford, Mitsubishi, Toyota and HSV, and had close interaction with V8 Supercars teams and drivers back in the early 2000s.

I was also lucky enough to take the Britten motorcycle on tour around the North Island in 1999, visiting distributors and an industry trade show.

For those who are asking the question, no, I didn’t get to ride it. The motorbike spent most of its time in a crate. But when you opened the crate, it always drew a crowd like moths to a flame!

A multitude of changes

Over the past few years, the dealer space has experieced a multitude of changes. I’m sure you have all had enough of the speed at which these have happened, and their impact on all dealers, imports and OEMs. Everyone has laboured to keep on top of new rules and then the unenviable task of implementing processes.

In March 2022 and June 2023, we saw massive jumps in registrations as the sector tried to keep ahead of the impacts of the Clean Car Discount and its changes, while the Clean Car Standard started this January.

As the year continues, we will see the numbers level out again, but the spikes in sales will forever be etched into history.

Some businesses are now seeing the impact from June’s spikes. Add to this our cost-of-living crisis and throw in an election year, which traditionally

Larry.fallowfield@mta.org.nz

impacts the economy and sales for a few months leading up to polling day.

I’ve have heard that some dealers’ sales have slowed or that they need to work harder to close a deal.

I’m also hearing some great positives coming out of the tough times – parts sales are still steady, parts supply has improved, and businesses reliant on the automotive sector are continuing to grow, which is keeping some in our industry very busy. There aren’t many, if any, industries that don’t rely on car dealers to keep them mobile. These include farmers, police, builders, plumbers, electricians, lawyers, the airlines and the Government. Even those who don’t think they rely on the motorvehicle industry still need transport operators to drop off their new bicycles, shoes or bus passes.

As we head through the next few articles, I would like to explore and leverage off the wider MTA team to discuss business topics that cause issues or concerns in everyday trading.

MTA has a great Human-Resources team that assists members to navigate employment concerns. We will delve deeper into some of those challenges, along with health and safety, mediation, training and advocacy to assist you in the everchanging landscape that we call business in New Zealand.

If you have any topic that you would like me to cover or share with the industry, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can email me at larry.fallowfield@ mta.org.nz

There were 6,984 new passenger vehicles, down 36 percent on same month last year, and down 4 percent YTD.

2,825 new commercial registrations - down 25 percent versus same month last year, and down 12 percent YTD.

The result this month reflects the consequences of the large sales numbers recorded in June as buyers acted in advance to avoid changes to the Clean Car Discount settings, which took effect on 1 July 2023. In short, the market was 'pulled forward'.

Brand performance

Toyota again led the market by a good margin. YTD Toyota holds a dominant 20 percent share across the first eight months - almost double the next best contender.

Across the first eight months of the year most of the brands in the 'top 10' list are behind same point last year, with only Toyota, Ford and Nissan ahead.

Top 10 New Vehicle Brands - August 2023

Mazda CX-60 entered the market with a mix of 35 PHEV and 19 Hybrids.

Top 15 models included: 10 SUV, 3 Cars and 2 Utes. Toyota Highlander and Yaris both recorded their best monthly tally for the year so far.

DRIVE TECHNOLOGY MIX:

ICE 57 percent, Hybrid 25 percent, EV 9 percent, and PHEV 8 percent.

Hybrid: 2,496 units including: 760 RAV4, 113 Toyota Highlander 182 Toyota Corolla 172 Ford Escape and 157 Toyota Yaris Cross.

EV: 803 including: 1EV: 803 including: 131 BYD Atto 3, 96 MG 4, 72 Tesla Model Y and MG ZS, and 53 Ford Mustang.

PHEV: 780 including: 261 Mitsubishi Outlander, 144 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, 131 Kia Sorento, 49 Ford Escape and 35 Mazda CX-60.

Brand Model Sales % Chg YTD

MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS 233 2%

FORD EVEREST 226 82%

SUZUKI SWIFT 214 22%

KIA SELTOS 214 7%

FORD ESCAPE 208 89%

KIA STONIC 192 -16%

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 182 -22%

NISSAN X-TRAIL 173 30%

TOYOTA COROLLA 172 -23%

TOYOTA YARIS CROSS 161 16%

TOYOTA YARIS 157 -17%

Used import vehicles

A total of 9,187 units in August, up 9 percent versus same month last year. YTD the used import sector is down 11percent.

8,730 used import passenger vehicles in August, up 9 percent on same month last year.

457 used import commercial registrations, down 8 percent on same month last year.

The result this month reflects the consequences of the large sales numbers recorded in June as buyers acted in advance to avoid changes to the Clean Car Discount settings, which took effect on 1 July 2023. In short, the market was 'pulled forward'.

Brand and model performance

Toyota dominated with 4,405 units (48 percent share), followed by Nissan 1,373, Mazda 863, Honda 677, and Subaru 374.

Top 15 models included: 10 cars, 4 SUV, and 1 Van.

Toyota Aqua remains dominant with 18 percent of the used import market in August.

Point of interest: Hybrid again outsold ICE to claim dominant position in August.

Used Import Vehicle Registrations Passenger and Commercial

Motorcycles

There were 619 new motorcycle registrations in August, down 20 percent on the corresponding month last year, and down 14 percent YTD.

A total of 105 used import motorcycle registrations, down 22 percent versus same month last year, but down 21percent YTD. Overall, the combined new and used import road market of 724 units was down 20 percent on same month last year, and down 15 percent YTD.

The motorcycle market reflects ongoing product shortages along with the tougher economic times and the cooler weather, which is less encouraging from a motorcycle perspective.

Brand and model performance

Suzuki reclaimed market lead in August, Honda still leads YTD. Only Harley-Davidson is ahead YTD.

Outside the top 10, Indian and Ducati are the only volume brands ahead in the year so far.

Top 15 Used Import Models – August

DRIVE TECHNOLOGY MIX:

Hybrid 53 percent, ICE 41 percent, EV 4 percent and PHEV 2 percent.

Hybrid: 4,861 units including:

1,512 Aqua, 1001 Prius, 335 Toyota Corolla, 272 Honda Fit, 237 Toyota CH-R.

EV: 386 units including: 359 Leaf, 9 Tesla Model S, 4 Peugeot 208.

PHEV: 206 units including: 121 Outlander, 32 Prius, 14 RAV4, and 11 BMW 330E .

Top 10 Motorcycle Registrations by Brand

SUZUKI 102 -1%

HONDA 84 -4%

YAMAHA 77 -20%

KTM 45 -19%

TRIUMPH 34 -5%

FORZA 29 -18%

HARLEY-DAVIDSON 28 9%

ROYAL

27 -18%

KAWASAKI 23 -38% TNT

23 -19%

Situations vacant - North Island

Auto mechanic/technician –WANGANUI

Guthries Auto Care Wanganui is looking for a qualified Automotive Mechanic and a Service Technician that can diagnose, problem solve and work unsupervised.

Email your CV to guthriesauto@xtra.co.nz or contact Paul for more information 06 347 9881.

Panelbeaters and Painters

AUCKLAND

(Onehunga)

Auckland Panel and Paint is expanding with new contracts, and requires additional top skilled tradesmen. Two branches in Auckland City and Onehunga. Great wages, with an emphasis on training (CRA Trainer of the year 2022). Benefits include Health care and flexible hours. Assistance with relocation if required. Ph: 021 888 000 or bob@rabon.co.nz.

Automotive technician/WoF

TAUPO

Morrell Motors is an award winning, multi-franchise dealership requiring a qualified Automotive Technician to join our team. WoF certificate an advantage.

Contact Mark Morrell, mark@morrellmotors.co.nz or phone 021 759 070.

Motorcycle technician

TAURANGA

Bayride Motorcycles is on the hunt for an experienced mechanic, WoF authority preferred. We service Aprilia, Triumph and Yamaha motorcycles. Contact Catherine@bayride.co.nz

Phone: 027 348 4792.

Automotive technician

WELLINGTON

European vehicle workshop specialising in Porsche. The role requires problem solving and diagnose faults in a wide variety of modern and classic vehicles. Work ranges from basic service and WoF through to engine and gearbox rebuilds, auto electrical, performance modifications and electric cars. Email CV and cover letter to office@powerhaus.net.nz. Phone: 04 4998715.

Mechanic

KUMEU, RODNEY

Small busy workshop looking for a mechanic with recognised qualification in the automotive industry or acceptable time served. WoF authority a bonus. Great communication skills and ability to work under pressure essential.

Email Mike: admin@manukaautomotive.co.nz.

Motorcycle technician

AUCKLAND ( Takapuna)

Qualified technician required for busy Service department. Great team with a new well-equipped Service department. A WoF authority is preferred but not essential.

Please contact Sandra – sandra@cyclespot.co.nz.

Mechanic/WoF inspector –

KAIKOHE

Looking for a qualified automotive technician with WoF authority servicing and mechanical repairs. Clean New Zealand driver licence. Phone Richard 09 401 0155 or email CV to office@kaikohepanelbeaters.co.nz.

Mechanic –

TAUPO AREA

Qualified mechanic required for busy workshop. Must be able to work unsupervised. A WoF authority is preferred but not essential. Great team with new, well-equipped workshop. Contact Heather on 027 244 2331.

Senior technician

TAURANGA

Herbs Vehicle Repairs are in search for a Senior Technician to join our team in our Central Tauranga based workshop. If you are capable of carrying out all types of mechanical repairs in our busy workshop that will keep our customers happy then we would like to hear from you. Please contact us at herbstauranga@gmail.com or call us on 07 577 6535.

Automotive technician

AUCKLAND

Giltrap Nissan (Auckland) part of the Giltrap Group is seeking a Qualified Auto Technician with fulltime WoF Inspector certificate. We offer a well-equipped workshop along with continuous and ongoing training.

To apply, please email your CV to Javed at: jsoyab@giltrapnissan.co.nz.

Estimator/Branch manager

AUCKLAND

Auckland Panel & Paint Group Ltd require an individual with a proven track record. Hours are Monday to Friday 7.30am to 5pm Strong experience in panel and paint estimating · Familiarity with IAG systems and processes. Industry software knowledge including ORM and Partstrader Knowledge of the iBodyshop estimating system would be an advantage. A competitive salary package will be offered. Relocation allowance is negotiable for candidates within New Zealand. Applicants for this position should be a NZ citizen or permanent resident. Contact Ph: 021 888 000 or bob@rabon.co.nz.

Qualified mechanic

BIRKENHEAD

Busy workshop looking for a qualified mechanic to work on various makes of cars. Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 4:30pm. WoF authority preferred, but not essential.

Email CV to birkenheadcarrepairs@xtra.co.nz

Automotive technician HAVELOCK NORTH

We require a mechanic with WoF authority, not frightened of being busy and can work on a variety of vehicles, be reliable and trustworthy. Email: mcclintockmotors2014@gmail.com if interested along with your c.v.

Parts advisor MATAMATA

We are requring a parts advisor to join our dynamic team of eight. This role involves finding, ordering and delivery of parts. Contact us on 07 888 7579 or office@onsiteae.co.nz.

Automotive technician NEW PLYMOUTH

A great opportunity for a motivated, qualified technician to join our growing team. You will have a full drivers license, be trade and WoF certified or have the ability to obtain. No weekend work required. Phone: 06 758 3535.

Automotive technician/mechanic

HASTINGS

DC Autocare require an experienced technician/ mechanic. We are Hastings’ VTNZ Certified Repairer. Full NZ drivers licence. NZ or equivalent automotive qualifications. (3rd year apprentices will be considered) Ability to work unsupervised. Email CV to admin@dcautocare.co.nz or contact Dylan 06 878 8138.

Mechanic/WoF Inspector

AUCKLAND

Busy Automotive workshop - Auckland Howick Central. Are seeking a mechanic with any experience. Contact Vlad: 021 261 2604 or email: info@somarservice.co.nz.

Automotive technician

NORTHLAND

Busy workshop looking for an Automotive Technician preferably with WoF authority. Contact Luke on 021 111 5683.

Senior technician/ Foreman

PAPAMOA

Work, play and enjoy life on the beach. Relocation costs may be subsidised. For a qualified, 10yrs+ experienced mechanic, we offer competitive pay. Send CV to jobs@coastalautos.nz.

Automotive mechanic/technician

MANUKAU CITY

We are a busy workshop who prides themselves on quality workmanship and customer service. Needs to be able to work unsupervised, have good diagnostic skills and be able to work on a wide range of vehicles and a full driver licence with New Zealand residency or a valid work visa. Email: workshop@autoking.co.nz. or phone: 09 262 1271.

Estimator

WELLINGTON

If you have automotive industry experience and you are committed to providing exceptional customer service, then we want you. The role has responsibility for detailed estimates. Also involves liaising with technicians on requirements for parts and/or specialist sub-contractors. Send CV and cover letter to Mike Tustin at enquiries@tustins.co.nz or call 021-771 685.

Automotive technician

PAHIATUA

We are looking for a motivated, qualified technician to join our small friendly team. A WoF authority is preferred but not essential. Contact Kevin at laskeysauto@xtra.co.nz. or 021 803 238.

Service advisor

PAPAMOA

To ensure customers have an excellent experience, you’ll be a person who is passionate about providing outstanding customer service. Email your CV to jobs@coastalautos.nz.

WoF Inspector/technician

TAURANGA

Earn more money then you are currently, come and work with us. We offer a family friendly environment. Email: tauranga@midasnz.co.nz. Phone: 021 102 9743.

Mechanic

WOODVILLE

We’re looking for a qualified mechanic to join our busy country workshop. Focused on friendly service, we cover diagnostics to engineering. WoF certification beneficial but not essential.

Phone: 06 376 5239.

Automotive tech/WoF Inspector

TE AROHA

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 021 511 911.

Mechanic/AVI KAPITI COAST

We are looking for a new mechanic, or suitably qualified person to join our team. NZ licence and residency minimum requirements for the job. AVI preferred. Class 2 and 6 licences an advantage. Scan tool experience a plus too. A decent wage and conditions offered.Apply with CV to Dayal at gckapiti@gmail.com or call: 021 329257.

Automotive technician

GISBORN E

We are looking for an experienced technician who prides themselves on quality workmanship and outstanding service. By joining us you get a modern workshop with comprehensive diagnostic equipment and ongoing training and development with our Nissan, Isuzu and Hyundai franchises. Send your CV to Justin @ justin.kent@enterprisemg.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 of applicant, with possibility for future investment into the business. Email: redbarron222@gmail.com or ph 0272 417614.

Motorcycle technician

NELSON

We require a qualified technician to work us in our well-established Honda dealership. The successful applicant will need to be honest and hardworking, have a clean driver’s licence, attention to detail and the ability to work with our existing staff of nine. Contact Ian on 027 221 9162.

Situations vacantSouth Island

Automotive technician

SOUTH CANTERBURY

South Canterbury Honda service centre, after hours AA roadside contractor and carry out salvaging throughout the district. Must hold a full driver’s licence, have excellent diagnostic skills, time management and be a team player. Call Alan on 027 228 9584 or email alan@vaughanmotors.co.nz.

Automotive technician

KAIAPOI

A busy general repair workshop looking for an experienced technician, with a current WoF certificate. Contact Jason on 027 918 8685.

Qualified mechanic

CHRISTCHURCH

We require a fully qualified mechanic with current warrant of fitness inspector ticket. Email: office@blighsroadservicestation.co.nz. Phone: 021 085 64498.

Automotive technician

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.

Automotive technician

INVERCARGILL

New car dealership, Southland Vehicle Sales has a long term opportunity available for a qualified mechanic to join the team working on Kia and Hyundai vehicles. Please contact Mark Lee on 021 0832 3373 or mark@leerecruitment.co.nz.

Automotive technician

DUNEDIN

Dj Auto is looking for an experienced technician to work along side three young men. The ideal candidate would be adaptable and have a passion for cars or engineering. Position would be 25-40 hours per week. Contact Thomas Laue on 03 4730 068.

Mechanic/WoF Inspector

BALCLUTHA

Seeking a full time qualified, motivated Automotive Technician to join our friendly team at our busy workshop, hours: Monday to Friday. Preferably with WoF authority. Full NZ drivers’ licence. We service all makes and models. Phone Allan Finch on 027 768 6697.

Automotive technician

TASMAN

We are looking for a Senior qualified technician to join our team. Preferably with WoF authority. We are a mechanical workshop/service station and an AA Breakdown contractor. We would be willing to offer assistance with relocation and finding accommodation. Email chris.perrysauto@gmail.com with CV or contact owner Chris Atkins 021 540 286.

Businesses for sale

Automotive Workshop/Service Station – TASMAN

Situated in Mapua in the middle of the Tasman Bay. Lots of opportunity to grow an already very busy business. All equipment has been replaced over recent years. 20k invested this year alone. AA roadside contractor. Owner prepared to assist with transition. For information call Chris 021 540 286 or email chris.perrysauto@gmail.com.

Automotive Workshop & Rental Car Agency

AUCKLAND (Northshore)

Well established with strong customer base, operating since 1990. Automotive workshop 4 bay 2x2 post hoists, tyre bay, WoF site, brake lathe, SAM computer system and more. International Rental Car agent. This is a 5 to 5.5 day operation with room to expand. Owner retiring. Please contact 0274 887721 for more information

Automotive WorkshopAUCKLAND (Howick Central)

Long time successful business. High customer base. 2x2 post hoists, one pit plus more. WoF site. For information email: info@somarservice.co.nz.

Automotive Workshop

HAMILTON

Well established since 1997. 300sqm workshop with 3 hoists, 10+ car parks. Well set-up workshop with a large client base and SAM computer software. Please call 021 790 651.

Panel Repair shop

PALMERSTON NORTH

Well-equipped panel repair shop. Established over 55 years. Owner retiring. Chassis machine, measuring system and hoist etc. Loyal customer base. Close to town centre. Ph: Terry 0274 844758.

Automotive Workshop –

AUCKLAND (Mt Eden)

Established 1980. Located Mine Road, Mt Eden Road. 2 x 2 post hoists, 1 x 4 post hoist. Tyre bay with tyre and balance machine. WoF site. Just bring your own staff. High quality client base. For more information

Email: johnbiparva@yahoo.com

Heavy Vehicle Workshop GREYMOUTH

Looking for a lifestyle change and want to run your own business? Come to the affordable West Coast. A well established business with a strong customer base, service and quality workmanship. Service pit, pit jack, truck hoist and 2-post hoist for light vehicles. 3 qualified mechanics and an apprentice. Email office@dtmechanical.co.nz.

Automotive Workshop NAPIER

A great opportunity to live and work in Napier. This Automotive Workshop has 4 bays with 2 hoists (1 x 4 & 1 x 2 post hoists). Plenty of onsite parking and great location. For more information Call Glenn on 027 442 1090 or email info@taradaleservicecentre.co.nz.

Auto Workshop CANNONS CREEK

Established 2000. - 3 bay workshop - 3 x two post hoists, - large amount of specialist equipment * 5 - 6 WoFs daily * Plenty of services and tune-ups * Brake repairs and scanning for faults and repairs * Good tyre sales. For further information contact Mike 027 484 1579 or Pasetto 0271 800 890.

Businesses for sale 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.

QMS and PRS Manual (Administration)

Help and guidance for those working in the WoF Inspecting Organisation space. I provide a preassessment check, to get your QMS up-to-date before your next Waka Kotahi visit. I'm happy to take calls from anywhere in the South Island. Acceler8 Automotive Solutions www.acceler8.co.nz.

Phone: Chris Lambie 027 442 0899

Need some help?

Simple, personalised H&S system, documented policies & procedures, hazsub inventories & office optimisation service - clearing the clutter! Contact Fliss, Business Systems Sorted022 151 1243.

Email: fliss@businesssystemssorted.co.nz.

www.businesssystemssorted.co.nz.

To advertise your Situations Vacant ad or Business for Sale in this section please email: radiator@mta.org.nz.

Free for members up to 30 words. Adverts will appear until the position has been filled or the business sold.

UPPER

NORTH ISLAND

SCOTT GORDON Team Leader 0800 001144 mta@mta.org.nz

MIKE BURD

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

SOUTH AUCKLAN D

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

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

JENNY FOY Member Support Officer 0800 001144 mta@mta.org.nz

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.

The region executive committees meet approximately every six weeks and all MTA members are most welcome to attend. The more you get involved, the more you can benefit from membership. Just contact your coordinator or region chair to check the dates of the meetings in your region.

NORTHERN REGION

TODD SPENCER Member Support Officer 0800 001144 mta@mta.org.nz

NICK MILLS

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

LOWER NORTH ISLAND & UPPER SOUTH ISLAND

DANNY GARRICK 027 478 0593 danny.garrick@mta.org.nz

LOWER

SOUTH ISLAND

MIKE GREENE 027 497 1568 mike.greene@mta.org.nz

MITESH PATEL Member Standards Coordinator 0800 001144 mta@mta.org.nz

SAVANNA CAINE Reception 0800 001144 mta@mta.org.nz

KAIMAI EASTLAND

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

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

Rob Wilson Region Chair 021 268 1781 rob@supershoppealbany.co.nz

Dan Taylor Region Chair 022 014 7802 dan.taylor@toiohomai.ac.nz

CENTRAL WEST COOK STRAIT

James Candish Region Chair 027 226 3053 jc@vva.co.nz natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz

natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz

SOUTHERN MAINLAND

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

Leslie Baxter Region Chair 03 208 1234 leslie@carnabycars.co.nz

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

COAST TO COAST AORAKI EAST COAST

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

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

Kelly Stephens Region Chair 027 366 0050 kstephens@hbtoyota.co.nz www.evcity.kiwi 021 706 503 hamish.miller@op.ac.nz

Start your success story

Scholarship applications open 18 September 2023!

Multiple scholarships available across 15 categories

Ready to start your success story?

If you work in the automotive industry, you could be eligible to apply for a 2024 scholarship.

Everything You Need And More

Find out more at mito.nz/scholarships

The DEKRA Training Academy is an online Learning Management System (LMS) specifically designed to help you maintain your Quality Management System (QMS). Our packages are recognised by Waka Kotahi, ensuring your team maintains your WoF Authority. Whether you‘re taking your first steps or an experienced pro, our packages are designed to suit everyone.

Find Out More

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hello@dekratraining.co.nz

MAKING THE EVERYDAY EASY AS.

At NAPA Auto Parts we know time is money. That’s why we have added more search options to speed up finding the right part to get your customer back on the road quickly.

Find parts faster

More ways to search for the right part by make, model, and year or by rego. PLUS looking for hard to find parts? Now you can cross reference part attributes with make, model, and year.

Order anytime, anywhere

Order anytime with live inventory meaning you secure the parts you need when ordering via PROLink. What to reorder a part? Use the bar code scanner on the PROLink mobile app to speed up your workshop.

Reduce your admin time

See your price and the RRP quickly to cost a job, view current and old invoices in one place, and review your price to schedule jobs accordingly.

MORE EASY SEARCH OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Barcode scanner

Order a new part or stock item by scanning the barcode using the mobile App. Go to the PARTS tab and hit the scan icon. A great time saving feature for high volume or regularly ordered products. Look for the barcodes in this catalogue

Scan here to

see how easy it is to use: