ISSUE 66 MARCH 2024
THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
ORDER ONLINE FROM ANYWHERE IN YOUR WORKSHOP
Shifting gears: women in automotive AS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY APPROACHES (8 MARCH) WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE SHIFTING ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
I
n New Zealand’s automotive industry, a quiet revolution is taking place, with women increasingly getting behind the wheel, not just as drivers but as mechanics, engineers, and automotive business leaders. While the journey is far from over, their presence is reshaping the industry for the better. Statistics paint a clear picture: women currently comprise only 17 per cent of the total automotive workforce in New Zealand, and a meagre six per cent of apprentices. This underrepresentation is evident across all sectors, from workshops to dealerships to management teams. However, a wave of initiatives and organisations are actively dismantling these barriers. Organisations like Women in Automotive New Zealand (WANZ) are spearheading the change. Launched in 2023, WANZ brings together industry leaders, educational institutions, and government agencies to promote diversity and inclusion. Their efforts include visibility campaigns, mentorship
programmes, and education initiatives. While the image of a female mechanic is crucial for breaking down stereotypes, it’s important to recognise that women’s contributions extend far beyond the workshop floor. From design and engineering to sales and marketing, their diverse skills and perspectives are enriching the industry across the board. Some of the New Zealand pioneers who have trail blazed a path for other women or are doing interesting work in the industry include: Sybil Lupp: Despite initial
doubts from her parents, Hawke’s Bay local Sybil Lupp pursued her passion for cars, learning to drive at 11 and working in a local garage by 14. A pioneering figure in New Zealand’s motor racing scene during the 1940s and 50s, she made history as the first woman mechanic in the country’s motor racing community as well as setting fast lap times and breaking records and holding the Class F NZ quarter-mile flying start record for six years. Additionally, she became the first woman to own a garage in Wellington, co-founding Archer and Lupp services.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
SO INTELLI-SMART THEY RECHARGE THEMSELVES
LiFePO4 UNPARALLELE
SA F ETY
INTELLI-START LITHIUM
IS1500 12V PROFESSIONAL JUMPSTARTER With Projecta’s patented Rapid Recharge Technology 40 seconds is all it takes for a vehicle to replenish the IS1500’s ultra-safe LiFePo4 battery after a jump start.
• 700A clamp power & 1500 peak amps • Set & forget docking station • panel shops and roadside assist.
STARTS VEHICLES UP TO
8.0L 6.0L PETROL DIESEL
Distributed by Brown and Watson International NZ Ltd- www.projecta.co.nz
COMPACT