NZ Truck & Driver April 2020

NZ TRUCK & DRIVER

FREE GIANT TRUCK POSTER LIFTOUT

| April 2020

April 2020 $8.50 incl. GST

BIG TEST Birthday Bulldog | FLEET FOCUS Never mind the big, juicy jobs | FEATURE A stack of new Volvos

FLEET FOCUS

Never mind the big, juicy jobs

FEATURE

A stack of new Volvos

Birthday

The Official Magazine of the

ISSN 1174-7935

Issue 233

#1 TRUCK ON NEW ZEALAND ROADS FOR 20 YEARS. Thanks to everyone who has been part of the journey.

Here’s to the next 20 years and the road ahead.

CONTENTS Issue 233 – April 2020 2 Aeolus News The latest in the world of transport, including….former Scania distributor CablePrice becomes a Daimler Trucks dealer; no change to Isuzu business in NZ, despite the end of owner, Holden

16 Giti Tyres Big Test Christchurch earthmoving and demolition contractor Gerard Daldry happily concedes that he didn’t NEED one of Mack’s new special edition Super-Liners – trucks celebrating a century of Bulldogs in Australia.

But he did, quite definitely, WANT one

31 Transport Forum Latest news from the Road Transport Forum NZ, including…..cannabis referendum at General Election will be important for the industry; railway level-crossing accident rate improves

40 Teletrac Navman Fleet Focus

mother and son transport operators Bev and Matt Young to cherish their dozens of smaller customers. Having so many of ‘em avoids that old “all your eggs in one basket” scenario

REGULARS 64/ PPG Transport Imaging 65 Awards Recognising NZ’s best-looking truck fleets….including a giant pullout poster of this month’s finalist

FEATURES 57 A stack of new Volvos

77 TRT Recently Registered

Volvo has just launched a whole heap of new trucks. Literally….and figuratively

New truck and trailer registrations for February

65 Castrol Truck Driver Hero

COLUMNS

Fonterra driver Jason Biddulph earned praise – and an invitation to join the local volunteer fire brigade – when he took time out to put out a roadside grass fire

73 National Road Carriers Association Trucking companies need to consider how to manage the coronavirus emergency

69 Should I stay or should I go?

Report on Kiwi pay rates suggests an extra two dollars an hour can make all the difference….

75 Road Transport Association NZ Coronavirus: Don’t panic! And make a plan

Bitter experience has taught Pukekohe

MANAGEMENT Publisher

Trevor Woolston 027 492 5600 trevor@trucker.co.nz

Advertising

Trevor Woolston 027 492 5600 trevor@trucker.co.nz Hayden Woolston 027 448 8768 hayden@trucker.co.nz

EDITORIAL Editor

Wayne Munro 021 955 099 waynemunro@xtra.co.nz

Editorial office Phone

PO Box 48 074 AUCKLAND 09 826 0494

Associate Editor

Brian Cowan

CONTRIBUTORS

Gerald Shacklock Dave McLeod Rod Simmonds Olivia Beauchamp

ART DEPARTMENT Design & Production Luca Bempensante

Zarko Mihic EQUIPMENT GUIDE AUCKLAND, NORTHLAND, BOP, WAIKATO, CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND Advertising Trudy Woolston

027 233 0090

trudy@trucker.co.nz AUCKLAND, LOWER NORTH ISLAND, SOUTH ISLAND Advertising Hayden Woolston

027 448 8768

hayden@trucker.co.nz

Dion Rout

027 491 1110

dion@trucker.co.nz

ADMINISTRATION Sue Woolston MANAGER accounts@trucker.co.nz SUBSCRIPTIONS

NZ subscription price

ADDRESS Phone Freephone Postal Address Street Address Web

Sue Woolston accounts@trucker.co.nz $80 incl. GST for one year (11 issues) Overseas rates on application +64 9 571 3544 0508 TRUCKER (878 2537) PO Box 112 062, Penrose, AUCKLAND 172B Marua Road, Ellerslie, AUCKLAND www.alliedpublications.co.nz

Contributions: Editorial contributions are welcomed for consideration, but no responsibility is accepted for lost or damaged materials (photographs, graphics, printed material etc).

To mail, ensure return (if required), material must be accompanied by a stamped, addressed envelope. It’s suggested that the editor is contacted by fax or email before submitting material.

Copyright: Articles in New Zealand Truck & Driver are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form – in whole or part – without permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher.

NZ Truck & Driver Magazine

PRINTING & DISTRIBUTION Printer Bluestar Retail Distribution Ovato Publication: New Zealand Truck & Driver is published monthly, except January,

by Allied Publications Ltd PO Box 112 062, Penrose, Auckland

Net circulation – ended 31/03/2019

11,360

www.nztruckanddriver.co.nz

www.facebook.com/nztruckanddriver

Truck & Driver | 1

NEWS CablePrice now the South Island Daimler Trucks dealer

Above: Prestige Commercial Vehicles had been selling Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz and FUSO trucks for the past 11 years

Right: CablePrice chairman David Harvey says that “the strength of our network and reputation has given us these fantastic opportunities”

IN YET ANOTHER TWIST TO Daimler Trucks’ representation in New Zealand, former Scania distributor CablePrice has become the South Island dealer for Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and FUSO trucks.

Two announcements in February signalled the April 1 end of Prestige Commercial Vehicles’ 11-year representation of the three makes on the Mainland.

The bombshell came just five months after Auckland-based Freightliner and Merc dealer Trucks & Trailers announced it had bought Prestige – giving it a nationwide presence.

Daimler Trucks Australia and CablePrice announced the Merc and Freightliner dealership – Daimler president and CEO Daniel Whitehead describing it as “a massive win for our customers…”

CablePrice had been the Scania distributor for 27 years until the Swedish manufacturer set up its own NZ operation 15 months ago – relegating it to the role of a service agent for Scania trucks and buses.

In a separate announcement on the same day, Fuso NZ confirmed that – also as of April 1 – CablePrice is also the FUSO sales and service dealer for the South Island.

It pointed out that PCV’s owner since last October – Trucks & Trailers – is “a Freightliner and Mercedes-Benz competitor with Fuso NZ sister company Keith Andrews Trucks.”

CablePrice chairman David Harvey said that the company is “delighted to be partnering with Daimler Trucks.”

And the addition of FUSO “is perfect timing, as it broadens our commercial vehicle product range, enabling us to offer our customers the best of European, Japanese and American trucking design and technology across the three Daimler brands.”

2 | Truck & Driver

Harvey said this is a time of “exciting growth for the company’s commercial vehicle and heavy machinery business.

“The strength of our network and reputation has given us these fantastic opportunities.”

The 69-year-old CablePrice is owned by Hitachi Construction Machinery and is the NZ distributor for its machines – while also representing Bell equipment, McCloskey, Montabert and MB crushers and HSC cranes.

(It has also been the NZ distributor of John Deere construction, compaction and forestry machinery, but announced last month that this arrangement is coming to an end in NZ. The John Deere distribution will transition to a new representative over the next five months).

It has an established dealer network, with sites in Christchurch, Invercargill and Greymouth.

Harvey said that CablePrice’s South Island staff “are excited with the potential of this new partnership. We’re all looking forward to providing our new Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner customers with the same proven sales and support for which CablePrice is renowned.

“The strength of CablePrice comes from delivering the highest level of after-sales service and assistance to our customers who buy and use the world’s leading brands and products.”

Daimler Trucks’ Whitehead said: “We’re excited to have such a well-established and reputable network partner represent our Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner brands in the South Island.”

Customers can “expect the best sales, service and support from an operation that has more than 65 years of experience servicing the heavy transport industry in the South Island,” he added.

As Whitehead says, the changes occur “at a great time for Daimler Trucks: The MercedesBenz Actros will soon be even further improved, continuing its cabover leadership, while the Freightliner Cascadia is set to become the clear class leader when it arrives in the next few months.

“It’s wonderful to be able to support these groundbreaking products with such a highquality dealership network.”

Fuso NZ CEO Kurtis Andrews says that the appointment of CablePrice as its South Island dealer “follows a wide-ranging board review of the performance of the FUSO network nationwide.

“For some time, we have been concerned that the composition of our network has not been meeting the expectations of FUSO customers.

We have explored a number of avenues to improve this and have now made the tough decision to refresh our South Island representation.

“PCV has been the FUSO representative in the South Island since 2009. Over the past few years, FUSO’s market share in this region has seen a significant decline.

“The Fuso NZ board feels that a fresh approach is required to reverse this trend and that CablePrice has the structure, network and ability to deliver on that expectation.

“This is not a decision that has been taken lightly and I would like to thank the PCV team for the effort put into representing FUSO for the past 11 years.” T&D

NEWS

As if to emphasise that Isuzu Trucks NZ is “an ongoing concern,” it has announced the new NMR range of light-duty models

Holden going...Isuzu staying ISUZU TRUCKS NEW ZEALAND – THE HOLDEN-OWNED distributor of NZ’s longtime No. 1 truck make – remains “an ongoing concern,” despite Holden’s demise.

Isuzu NZ has followed up General Motors’ February announcement that it’s all over for the Holden make, by stressing that it’s “business as usual” for its Kiwi truck business.

“It is our intention to continue our current Isuzu distribution agreement, as we believe the current Isuzu sales and aftersales operations in NZ will augment our remaining Holden aftersales network operations,” says Isuzu Trucks NZ. In announcing the retirement of the Holden make, GM said that “Holden will establish a national aftersales network to support existing customers for at least the next 10 years.”

And in a demonstration of its “business as usual” statement, Isuzu NZ has released details of eight new N-Series light-duty truck models.

The NMR range builds on the N-Series models, which accounted for 7% of Isuzu sales in NZ last year – the Japanese make’s 20th consecutive year as the country’s best-selling truck.

The new models offer some “unique competitive advantages, by providing the right balance in specification of technology and price,” says Isuzu Trucks general manager Dave Ballantyne.

Benefits include an increase in GVM over the current NLR model – now up to 5995kg. That, says Ballantyne, “is perfect for operators in lighter applications, as the truck can still be driven on a Class 1 driver’s licence.”

The NMR’s narrow cab means it’s easier to manoeuvre in applications where access is restricted, “such as around-town delivery and tipper work.”

And there’s a new addition to the range – a three-way tipper-bodied, ready-for-work model, which customers have been requesting, he says.

Car-like features in the new models include electronic vehicle stability control, cruise-control, programmable speed limiter and discbrakes all around.

The models offer the choice of a five-speed manual or six-speed AMT transmission, with torque converter – the AMTs coming with a kickdown switch to trigger a downshift. The torque converter multiplies torque output for faster acceleration from low engine revs.

“It’s an exciting new development for Isuzu Trucks in NZ to be able to introduce a model with this high level of specification into the market.

“We’re confident these new models will further enhance our reputation as the leading supplier of new trucks in the local market…” T&D

Isuzu claimed almost 24% of all sales in last year’s overall NZ truck market (above a 4.5-tonne GVM) Truck & Driver | 3

The highly anticipated new IVECO X-Way is now available. Designed in Europe, manufactured in Australia and engineered for New Zealand, the X-Way features the latest Euro6 technology which emits fewer emissions while still delivering outstanding power and torque. These engines also use less fuel, and when matched to the smart Hi-Tronix AMT, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more efficient driveline anywhere. Add to this, market-leading safety features as standard, cutting-edge driver assistance systems and lower total cost of ownership benefits, and you won’t want to consider another truck model.

X-Way stock is now at Dealerships, so visit your local outlet and discover all that the new X-Way has to offer.

www.iveco.co.nz

NEWS

Forum CEO Nick Leggett says the RTF believes that road and rail should be complementary....not competitive. But it is also adamant that “it will always be trucks that carry the economy on their backs....”

Rail freight a mere mirage TRUCKS AND OTHER ROAD USERS SHOULD NOT BE funding “the mirage that is rail freight,” Road Transport Forum chief executive Nick Leggett has told a Parliamentary Select Committee.

“We have already quite rightly referred to the Government’s plan for the existing user-pays road funding to be used to further subsidise KiwiRail as highway robbery,” Leggett said.

“We totally support electrified rail in cities to relieve road congestion.

But rail freight is never going to be competitive with road freight, or be significant in the New Zealand economy in terms of moving goods – that’s just a mirage,” Leggett said.

“Even with massive Government subsidies, KiwiRail is a bottomless pit that runs at an eyewatering loss.

“The RTF opposes funding rail from the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF), which is paid into by road users for the purpose of roads. The legislation on the table – Land Transport (Rail) Legislation Bill – will upend that completely and put road funding at risk by letting it be raided by rail.

“Despite this Government’s desire to control markets, customers decide which freight mode best suits them. The Ministry of Transport’s National Freight Demand Study 2017/’18 shows demand for road freight increased by 16%, while demand for rail freight declined by 17%. This is because the advantages of road over rail are many.

“Rail isn’t even an option for about 80% of NZ’s freight. Rail freight’s strength is in long-distance transportation (distances greater than 500 kilometres) of high volumes of relatively low-value products, such as coal.

For how long will NZ be producing coal?

“Rail’s environmental benefits over road are simply illusionary, as any level of success for rail transport is entirely dependent on truck transport to get the goods to the train at one end of the journey, and off it at the other end.

“We do not believe the track user charges, loosely referenced in the Bill, are going to meet the rail programme spend, which the Government has indicated will be significant.

“We believe that in NZ’s freight market, road and rail should operate as

complementary – not competitive. But it will always be trucks that carry the economy on their backs, and they pay handsomely for the roads they use.

“We hear worrying rhetoric from this Government about taking trucks off the road. They believe this Bill will do that. In reality, if you take trucks off the road, you take jobs from NZers and – within three days – you would have no food in the supermarkets.”

The RTF has made submissions on the Land Transport (Rail) Legislation Bill and the Land Transport (NZTA) Legislation Amendment Bill. T&D

From Holdens to heavy vehicles SKILLED AUSTR ALIAN AUTO INDUSTRY WORKERS left out of jobs by the demise of Holden will readily find new careers in the truck and trailer industry, Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia has been quick to point out.

HVIA chief executive Todd Hacking says that Australia is “a world leader in the design and manufacture of high productivity trucks and trailers.”

While the announcement of the end of Holden was “devastating, we hope that many of their talented people will find new opportunities in our industry – an industry that has its own great Australian story.

“We have a thriving and robust local industry that comprises hundreds of innovative trailer, specialised vehicle, component, equipment and technology manufacturers and suppliers – in addition to the product assembly of global heavy vehicle brands such as Volvo, Mack, Kenworth, DAF and Iveco.

“The heavy vehicle industry flies under the radar in some respects, but it is a dynamic and innovative part of the Australian, and indeed the world economy,” Hacking adds. T&D Truck & Driver | 5

NEWS

The just-opened Huntly bypass section of the Waikato Expressway avoids traffic pinch-points in Huntly township

Huntly bypass milestone THE OPENING OF THE $384MILLION HUNTLY BYPASS section of the Waikato Expressway has been hailed as a milestone by the National Road Carriers Association.

“This is the first motorway link between two New Zealand cities. For the first time it will be possible to go from Auckland to Hamilton on a motorway/expressway,” points out NRC chief executive David Aitken.

“The Huntly bypass will speed up travel and delivery times, improve productivity, reduce emissions and be safer,” he adds.

He praises Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and its contractors for building the bypass with minimal disruption to State Highway 1 users.

The 15-kilometre bypass is part of the 102km of SH1 four-laning, from Bombay to south of Cambridge – the project to be completed when the 22km Hamilton section opens late next year. The completed Expressway is expected to reduce travel times by 35 minutes between its northern and southern ends.

The Huntly section connects completed Expressway sections at Ohinewai in the north and the Ngaruawahia section at Gordonton Road in the south.

Waka Kotahi NZTA says it will bring major improvements in safety and

efficiency, taking traffic away from the congestion point through Huntly, which has a poor safety record.

“The new road will provide people travelling through the Waikato on State Highway 1 with a safer, more reliable and more enjoyable journey,” says portfolio manager Darryl Coalter.

He points to the support of iwi as critical to the success of the project: “Without a strong relationship with Waikato-Tainui we could not have got this road built in such a culturally significant area. We’ve set out to recognise this cultural significance through pou and other artwork along the route, and the restoration of two former pa sites.”

Aitken also welcomes National Party leader Simon Bridges’ statement that a National Government would bring forward four-laning of SH1 between Whangārei and Auckland – work that it had signalled before the 2017 election, but which was put on the back-burner by the current Government.

The Government then committed $692million on four-laning the road between Whangārei and Port Marsden Highway to Northport, as part of the NZ Upgrade Programme within its $12billion infrastructure package. T&D

New Merc A-Pac boss AN INTERNAL PROMOTION AT Daimler Truck and Bus Australia has seen Andrew Assimo appointed the director of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Australia Pacific – covering the Australian and New Zealand markets.

DT&B president and CEO Daniel Whitehead says Assimo has “played a key role in establishing Mercedes-Benz as the premier heavy duty cabover brand for smart business operators in Australia – and we’re confident he can guide the brand to even 6 | Truck & Driver

greater success.

“He has a close relationship with our MercedesBenz customers, having helped them improve their businesses during the last few years, and we know they will be pleased with this appointment.”

Assimo has been with DT&B since 2007, initially as a Mercedes-Benz heavy vehicle product engineer and, since 2015, as senior manager – overseeing sales, production, operations and marketing. T&D

Andrew Assimo

YOUR HAMMAR. YOUR WAY

HAMMAR 195:

+ Versatile – PrecisionLeg™ for optimal stabilising + Light – low tare + Strong – 36-tonne Safe Working Load (SWL) or 40-tonne option + Stable – legs extend for firm base and transfer + Weighing – by each crane or total + High lift – ideal for stacking option + Reach – long outreach cranes + Ease – crane/stabiliser side-by-side design + Safety+™ – computer monitored handling as std + SDS – Hammar Soft-Drive System + Flex – Trailer or Truckmounted

HAMMAR 110: + Fast + Narrow + Light + Safe + Reach + Weighing + Strong + Stable + High lift + Ease + Safety+™ + SDS + Flex

– new SledgeLeg™ technology, 50% faster – SledgeLeg™ use for confined spaces – from 8.4-tonne tare – optimal crane geometry – long outreach cranes – by each crane or total – 36-tonne Safe Working Load (SWL) – legs extend for firm base and transfer – ideal for stacking option – crane/stabiliser side-by-side design – computer monitored handling as std – Hammar Soft-Drive System – Trailer or Truckmounted

HAMMAR 130:

+ Versatile – handles two 20’ containers or one 40’ container via 3 cranes + Unique – middle crane folds into chassis to accommodate a single 40’ + Sliding – for maximum payload with a single 20’ option + Light – only 7.5 tonne tare + Strong – 16-tonne Safe Working Load (SWL) + Stable – legs extend for firm base and transfer + Reach – long outreach cranes + Ease – crane/stabiliser side-by-side design + SDS – Hammar Soft-Drive System + Flex – Trailer or Truckmounted

Every freight delivery is different, so our three high-performance HAMMAR models are designed for your needs. Each HAMMAR is constructed from premium grade steel from Swedish and NZ components, to be stable, strong, fast and built to last. Designed for easy operation, service and maintenance in mind. You cannot buy a better sideloader.

With more than 45 years experience in sideloaders and a reputation for quality of manufacturing and service, HAMMAR sets the standard.

Now sold in 115 countries MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

HAMMAR Sideloaders are Made in New Zealand from local and Swedish components to suit YOUR transport needs.

Hammar New Zealand Ltd, 16 Marphona Cres, Takanini, Auckland. 0800 2 HAMMAR sales.nz@hammarlift.com www hammarlift.com

Transport Trailers is a licensed ‘Hardox In My Body’ manufacturer. This elite accreditation ensures that you get an outstanding steel structure made to the highest standards with genuine Hardox.

Quality doesn't cost. It Pays.

Advanced steel. Tailored design. Unbeatable service life.

“Transport & General Engineering is at the leading edge of tipper body development in New Zealand with their Transport Trailers product. Their constant innovation and the quality of their finished product is second-to-none.”

LUKE MATHIESON | MANAGING DIRECTOR, REAL STEEL

With 65 years of heavy transport experience and a passion for the industry, we'll manufacture your new Hardox tipping body to withstand the harshest and toughest environments — from sea walls to demolition — and finished to the highest possible standard.

www.tandg.co.nz . sales@tandg.co.nz .

TransportTrailers

Transport & General Engineering

NEWS

NEWS

DAFs do demo drive Main picture: The fleet of new DAFs has been touring the company – from Northland to Southland Below: More than 1200 transport operators and driver attended the first seven roadshow events

Former Mack boss... becomes new Mack boss A HALF-MILLION-DOLLAR ROADSHOW HAS SHOWN off the new Euro 6 DAF CF to more than 1200 New Zealand transport operators and drivers.

Five new CFs and a couple of trailers had already clocked-up a total of more than 22,500-kilometres after seven of the 11 stops in the nationwide tour. The first new-model DAF XF in the country is to join the roadshow for its last two promo events.

The roadshow took in stops stretching from Whangarei to Invercargill – with videos and photos posted to YouTube and Facebook en route viewed 1.25million and 62,000 times respectively.

DAF distributor Southpac Trucks says the launch marks the make’s biggest product change in almost 12 years.

The four-model CF range takes in an 8x4, a 6x4 rigid, a 6x4 tractor unit and a 4x2 tractor unit, with three cab variants and gross combination ratings up to 58 tonnes.

The new CFs come with either an 11-litre or 13-litre PACCAR MX engine – the smaller powerplants rated between 370 and 450 horsepower, while the MX13 comes with 430-530hp outputs.

The trucks have TraXon automated manual transmissions as standard.

Also standard (with the TraXon spec) is the full suite of active safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning and vehicle stability control. T&D

FORMER VOLVO GROUP AUSTR ALIA SENIOR EXEC Gary Bone has returned to the company as the Mack Trucks Australia, New Zealand and Oceania vice president sales.

He takes over the role as head of the iconic North American brand in the region from Dean Bestwick, who’s been promoted to a regional VP position for Mack Trucks in North America.

Bone, who spent 16 years with Mack Trucks and Volvo Group Australia (VGA) – including spells as the senior VP of Mack Trucks Australia and VP Volvo Trucks Australia – has spent the last six years as CEO of a large Australian farm machinery company.

VGA president and CEO Martin Merrick says: “Gary has a great history with Mack and Volvo and I’m convinced he is the right man to lead Mack forward in 2020 and beyond. His work with us in the past and his recent successes speak Gary Bone for themselves.” T&D

Truck & Driver | 9

NEWS

1 remotecontrol truckie st

Einride has already been operating an autonomous Pod freight truck within a Swedish industrial area. Now it wants the input of a truck driver....who will also operate it and other development Pods remotely

EOFY Stock Clearance on now at Trucks & Trailers Mercedes-Benz • Actros 6x4 & 8x4 • Arocs 6x4 & 8x4 • Ex Demonstrators

Freightliner • Argosy • Columbia and Century Class (CST) • Coronado 6x4 & 8x4

All vehicles in New Zealand spec with options for various applications. Contact our team now for more information.

Damon Smith, Auckland/Waikato, Adam Corbett, Upper North, Callan Short, Central North Island, John O’Sullivan, Lower North Island,

021 623 219 021 771 335 021 403 959 021 970 930

Trucks & Trailers Auckland | Palmerston North | Wellington 0800 327 777 www.trucksandtrailers.co.nz

damon.smith@trucksandtrailers.co.nz adam.corbett@trucksandtrailers.co.nz callan.short@trucksandtrailers.co.nz john.o’sullivan@trucksandtrailers.co.nz

AUTONOMOUS ELECTRIC TRUCK DEVELOPER Einride is hiring what’s believed to be the world’s first remote operator of driverless trucks.

The Swedish company, which describes itself as “part commercial enterprise, part revolutionary movement,” says that it’s looking for an experienced truck driver to pioneer an entirely new job category – shaping both the immediate work environment and the job description of tomorrow’s truckers.

“The operator will be responsible for remote-control driving of the Einride Pod, and training will incorporate safety and security protocols, basic remote driving instruction, and an extensive understanding of the technology behind the system.”

Einride already has one of its driverless Pods working in a pilot project in a Swedish industrial area, moving freight for DB Schenker in a continuous flow operation between two freight hubs.

But currently, says Einride CEO and founder Robert Falck, “our autonomous Pods are operated by developers — robot engineers trained to drive trucks.

“A commercially scalable solution must rely on truck drivers, trained to remote-operate robots.

“The ins-and-outs of that future are what we’re investigating now, by involving truck drivers in the process.”

The remote-control operator will go through an extensive safety and technology training programme and provide feedback to help develop Einride’s remote driver station.

The driver will work with Einride’s development team for the rest of this year to optimise the Pod’s operation and develop guidelines for future remote operators.

The driver, who will have to be proficient in Swedish and English, will work with Einride in Sweden.

But the company says it will also hire a remote-control driver in the United States in the third quarter of this year.

Einride says it believes it will have autonomous fleets in operation in Europe and USA “by 2022 to 2023.”

It says that the use of its remote autonomous trucks has the potential to partially solve the severe global driver shortage and reduce fuel/energy costs by up to 70%, while also cutting operating costs by up to 60%, increasing productivity by 200%....and reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%.

Falck says that the continuing development of autonomous vehicles “will place new demands on the workforce and raises questions about the future working environment of drivers/ operators.

“We are excited to open up an entirely new category of jobs that will not only benefit the industry’s current employees with improved hours, working conditions, and knowledge, but reinvigorate a dying employment sector for the next wave of job seekers.”

Falck admits that there are still “concerns” to be overcome – scaling for industrialisation the foremost, but also legal and technical challenges, the latter mainly related to the lidars.

Meantime, global autonomous-driving tech company TuSimple has expanded its commercial operations for parcel service UPS in the United States to 20 trips a week.

The trucks – operating autonomously between Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona – are achieving 10% fuel savings compared to manned trucks on the same runs, TuSimple says.

UPS Ventures made a pioneering investment in autonomous trucking by taking a stake in TuSimple last year. The addition of a second autonomous freight route and extra runs is a vote of confidence for TuSimple, it says.

It aims to demonstrate the first fully driverless commercial operation in 2021. T&D

13-Tonne Vertical Lifting Load Simulating Roller Brake Tester Model BM18200

Meets NZTA requirement for 60% design axle weight CoF B testing For WoF and CoF B testing 255mm (10”) lifting height of roller bed 16-tonne lifting capacity Retrot without civil work into most popular sub frames ■ IT system using latest app technology for smart phone and tablet ■ Hot galvanised for long lifetime Proven BM Autoteknik Danish ■ The most comprehensive load design with over 750 roller brake testers in use every day in NZ! simulation system programme ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

For today and the future...

A superior heavy duty platform lift that uniquely provides a “clear oor” concept for the user with a true, vertical rise. Its elegant design includes two independent runways, vertical lifting, no crossbeams, no overhang and no base frame. Can be set up in tandem.

Stertil-Koni ST-1085 EARTHLIFT Column Lifts Wireless battery operated 8.5 tonne capacity per column

Call for details!

The No. 1 Brand in NZ! Options to 65 tonne, 8 to 15M platforms

Stertil-Koni 24/36-Tonne 20M

Perfect for truck and trailers or other longer combinations

ST4120 10-metre 12/18-tonne 4-post or 20-metre 24/36-tonne in tandem installation Equipment Manager BRETT HIGGINS 027 448 0848 Business Development STEVE GREER 027 496 6221 General Equipment VICTOR COBB 027 270 1890 General Equipment (NI) ARTHUR NICHOLSON 027 836 3620 General Equipment (NI) JAMIE ALLAN 027 276 9129 General Equipment (SI) MARCUS MULCAY 027 444 4771 Gen. Equipment/Diagnostics ED BAARD 027 435 9898 1 Orb. Ave., Manukau / Toll Free 0800 800 488 / www.sulco.co.nz

NEWS

Scania NZ’s online tool allows customers to “design” new trucks from their office desk or mobile phone

Build your Scania online SCANIA HAS LAUNCHED AN ONLINE TRUCK configurator – a tool to allow customers to virtually “design” their own new truck.

In what it claims is “a first for the New Zealand market” its online configurator “lets you specify every aspect of a truck from the chassis up.

“You can choose the drivetrain, the cab, the engine and even the cab colour – to create the perfect truck for your business and NZ roads.

“When complete, you can see your truck from every angle, inside and out, in its chosen colour, and even request a quote online – all do-able from the convenience of your mobile phone.”

Users start with the type of application the truck will be used for, whether it will be a tractor unit or a rigid chassis…and then become very specific with “every detail and every option.”

The goal, says Scania NZ sales director Deon Stephens, “is to deliver the best possible total operating economy, or TOE, for our owners.

“That means having the right specification to do the job right, but making sure it’s not over-specified either. When you get it right, you maximise return on investment, and minimise the total cost of operation over the truck’s lifetime.

“The configurator shows every option available and explains its benefits.

It lets operators choose the best performance and the best return.”

Scania has spent a long time testing the configurator, to ensure customers find it easy to use and says that “so far, feedback has been brilliant.

“One feature that we didn’t realise would be so popular is the ‘Share’ function. You can build your perfect truck – or your dream truck – and share a link to it. Some people send it to their family or their mates….and others send a suggestion to their boss.”

Scania suggests that the configurator will also allow operators to share potential options with their drivers – “and even give them a budget to tweak the design to their own preferences and regions.” T&D

Milestone Star THE 200,000 TH WESTERN Star has rolled off the production line in the United States.

The iconic North American make was founded in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1967, specialising in trucks built for the logging and oil industries.

Daimler Trucks bought the brand in 2000 – and six years later it rolled out the 100,000th Western Star.

Whereas it took 39 years to get to that milestone, it’s taken only 14 more years to double that number.

The anniversary vehicle – a Western Star 4700 SB with a waste water disposal body – was handed over to customer Joe Johnson Equipment at the plant in Portland, Oregon. The operator is a leading supplier of infrastructure maintenance equipment in North America. T&D 12 | Truck & Driver

The milestone truck – a 4700 SB model – rolls off the production line

GPS Tracking

eRUC

Maintenance

eLogbook

“The best thing about our Teletrac Navman system was that it solved any customer disputes over invoicing.

They couldn’t argue with the time-keeping of the system, and therefore we retained valuable revenue.”

Robin Thomas, Owner & Operator HIAB Transport

0800 447 735 TeletracNavman.co.nz

W E A R E C U S T O M M A N U F A C T U R E S O F. . .

• Alloy Stockcrates, rib and flat sided • Servicing the North and South Island in our fully equipped workshops • Alloy and Steel platform deck manufacturers

• Alloy Ute canopies/Dog Boxes • Loading ramps • Alloy Ute/flat decks

DELTA STOCK CRATES

Photo courtesy of Derek Tankersley Internal view of stock crate.

Winch fitted to help with H&S and ease of use of crate.

Recessed cattle floor and reduced height of centre drain to gain more depth and minimise back rub.

Flip over centre drain as an option to make single decking large animals possible without rub.

Crate loads of strength, much lighter tare Delta Stock Crates Ltd. is New Zealand’s largest manufacturer of alloy stock crates and are the only stock crate manufacturer with full manufacturing and servicing facilities in both the North Island (a purpose-built workshop in Feilding) and the South Island (Timaru).

From full-size Stockcrates and Truck Decks to Ute Canopies and Small crates they have a huge ‘standard’ product range to choose from, however, they are also quick to point out that ‘every crate they make is custom-manufactured to meet your specifications’ and that ‘together they’ll work with you to meet your requirements.’

Over the years Delta has spent a lot of time and money into research and development of their current stock crate, especially over the past couple years with the back rub issue. which has resulted in them custom-making new extrusions to maximise heights throughout the crates whilst maintaining strength and losing tare weight - an obvious win/win for the entire industry.

With over two decades of experience in the business, they focus on delivering products that combine the best balance between tare weight, strength and durability at a competitive price.

Delta is a Member of the New Zealand Road Transport Forum (NZRTF), which is dedicated to working towards a safer, more efficient and effective road transport industry and all Delta Stock Crates and Truck Decks have a full 2-year manufacturer’s warranty against product defects or faulty workmanship. Plus, all new stock crates are AsureQuality Certified.

EG30608

Get in touch now if you would like to view our demonstration unit.

Feilding Branch 06 3233 629 Ted Shannon 021 029 41293

Check out our website:

Timaru Branch 03 6882 274 Blair Cochrane 027 690 0724

www.deltacrates.co.nz

s

Dunedin show doubles numbers

NEWS

The Dunedin Truck Show attendance was an “outstanding” success, the organisers say THE 2020 DUNEDIN TRUCK SHOW ATTRACTED a 75-truck turnout – double the numbers from 2019.

The attendance was, says show committee member Stan Mason, “an absolutely outstanding result from the transport industry.”

The committee says that the successful show is down to “all those involved on the day….the truck owners, the drivers, the helpers who got the rags and tyre paint out to present an outstanding lineup on the day….”

And to the sponsors, headed by main sponsor City Auto Glass, supported

by NZ Truck & Driver, MTD, Transport Repairs, Roadmaster, Coombs Contracting, Dunedin Truck Servicing, General Tyres, TWL, Forestry Roading, Diesel Transport Services, CVC Dunedin, Tyremax, Multispares, Scania Trucks, CTS, Penske Commercial Vehicles, YHI, Steel & Tube, Caltex, Hose Supplies Christchurch and TMC. The King Rig award was taken by Gerard Daldry and Paul Bennett, with Protranz’s new Mack Super-Liner….while an International F1800 towtruck won the sponsor’s choice award for Huck McCready and Alex McLellan from McLellan Freight. Haden Campbell’s MAN in Mainfreight colors won the drivers’ choice honours, while the people’s choice award went to the mini Kenworth of McLellan Freight’s Isaiah McLellan.

The other award winners were: Best Kenworth – Daniel (Donut) Connell, Mainfreight Kenworth K200; Best Mack – Stu Mowat, Southern Bulk; Best DAF – Alex Mckillop; Best Volvo – Blair Newell, R&R Hiab Services; Best Scania – Hire Frankton; Best Euro – Nick Wellbeloved, Mainfreight MAN; Best Freightliner – Nelson Yorston, Yorston Transport; Best Iveco – Gus Clearwater, Clearwater Civil; Best Western Star – Aaron Henderson Logging; Best Japanese – Lindsay Wilson, Kawau Contractors Nissan; Best Hino – Paul Hutton, Andrew Haulage; Best Isuzu – Andrew Lorde, R&R Hiab Services; Best Tractor Unit – Daniel Connell, Mainfreight Kenworth K200; Best Rigid – Nick Wellbeloved, Mainfreight MAN; Best Logger – Karl Scott, Kenworth T909; Best Curtainsider – Aaron Walker, A&L Coombs Scania; Best Chrome – Jessy Shane Collins, STL Kenworth T904; Best Fleet – R&R Hiab Services; Best Classic – McLellan Freight; 0-500,000kms – Alex Mckillop, DAF; 500,000-1 Million kms – Mark Feagan, A&L Coombs Scania; Over 1 Million Kms – Terry Hucklebridge, Mainfreight Kenworth K200; Biggest Crack – Jessy Shane Collins STL (ran out of fuel!).

Proceeds from the show barbecue, donated by Dynes Transport, went to the Arthur Burns Preschool, which put on the barbecue drinks and raffles. T&D

SUPERIOR BODY DESIGN TO PROVIDE GREATER STRENGTH AND GREATER INSULATION

90 Great South Road, Takanini info@fairfaxindustries.co.nz +64 9 295 1690

Truck & Driver | 15

16 | Truck & Driver

BIG TEST

The Centenary Limited Edition Super-Liner isn’t going to be working every day – but it will share the heavy-haul duties with other Protranz tractor units. Here, at the start of the Lees Valley Road, it’s just picked up a big company excavator to take it back to its Christchurch base

Birthday

Story Dave McLeod Photos Gerald Shacklock

Truck & Driver | 17

The Limited Edition Super-Liner comes with its heritage green paint job (others are painted gold) and has a revised grille and bonnet, compared to the standard version

I

N ONE WAY, CHRISTCHURCH EARTHMOVING AND DEMOLITION contractor Gerard Daldry is absolutely and utterly the kind of bloke Mack Trucks was thinking of when it decided to build its latest special edition trucks.

Then again…..he was also one of the most unlikely people to buy one of the 100 Macks (a mix of Super-Liners and Tridents) fancied-up to commemorate a century of Macks in Australia.

Daldry is a man who loves Macks. Simple as that. It’s a passion that shows clearly when you walk with him through his collection of Macks.

Well, some of them anyway.

His recall of the full details of Macks he’s driven over the years suggests he’s borderline obsessive. Like, he can even reel off their rego numbers!

He has an admiration for the brand that spans decades and a relationship with the recently-retired, long-serving manager of NZ Mack importer Motor Truck Distributors, Murray Sowerby (alias Mr Mack) that’s almost brotherly.

The passion for the Bulldog brand shows when he runs through the Macks he owns – most of them collector trucks, not part of Protranz Earthmoving’s everyday working truck fleet (which itself runs to 30-odd trucks).

The enviable Mack lineup – amounting to about half of the Daldry collection of over 40 near-modern classic trucks (including Internationals, Bedfords, ERFs and Scammells) is heavily focused on New Zealand-built Macks.

They range in age back to a couple of 1973 models and there’s a few rarities among them – the 1000th Mack built in NZ, the world’s last Cruise-Liner and the only CL model fitted with a Detroit Series 60 engine, among them. That was brought into the country by MTD for evaluation when the Mack V8 was being phased out – in company with Cat and Cummins-powered options.

And yet…..despite all of this Mack love, remarkably he’s also someone who’d never bought a new Mack in his life!

Not till he decided to buy one of these new 100-year Limited Edition models (one of three sold in NZ – two Super-Liner sleepers and one daycab Trident tipper).....which is what’s brought us here, to Protranz’s

Christchurch base: To get a taste of what these Centenary models have to offer.

And what convinced this Mack maven, this Bulldog buff, to break the habits of a lifetime, and buy his first brand-new Mack – a Centenary Super-Liner.

“I’ve bought dozens and dozens of DAFs, Nissans and Kenworths and things like that – but it was only because of one specific person in Mack Trucks in Christchurch that I didn’t like one little bit….that I didn’t buy new.

“I always joked with Murray Sowerby that the day that guy f***ing leaves, you let me know and we’ll start buying Macks. Unfortunately, he left only just before Murray retired – so it sort of worked-in to be quite nice for Murray…..as he got a real significant truck for his last sale.

“Plus he actually got to sell us a truck and we got to buy a truck (off him), which is probably more significant for us.”

So what exactly do you get in a 100-year Birthday Bulldog, on top of the Super-Liner’s usual 600-685-horsepower (kilowatts) 16-litre MP10 engine, heavy-duty mDrive automated manual transmission and the choice of either Mack or Meritor heavy-duty diffs and air or mechanical spring rear suspension?

The Protranz 6x4 Limited Edition Super-Liner tractor unit sticks to the all-Mack powertrain and suspension – the 685hp MP10, the mDrive and the 2370B diffs on Mack air suspension, with a Mack FXL front axle as well.

Well, the extras are really collector-oriented – and in keeping with special edition anniversary Macks that have gone before, including a Southern Cross limited edition in 2013, the Centennial trucks in 2000 and an Australian Bicentennial limited edition Super-Liner back in 1988.

Beneath the gold Bulldog, which (as usual) denotes that it’s an all-Mack driveline, is a bigger, taller chrome grille….in front of a larger, more imposing bonnet. There are plenty of 100-year badges, plaques… even an illuminated cutout in the big, true-blue-Aussie King bumper and bullbars. It also comes with a distinctive dark green heritage paint job.

It’s luxurious inside, with more 100-year ID branding – on the panels Truck & Driver | 19

and on the leather seats and trim. It’s flash alright inside the special 58-inch high-rise sleeper – all pleated ultra-leather burgundy trim, with red ambient floor lighting and a woodgrain dash. The driver’s seat is an ISRI Premium Big Boy with 100-Years embroidery – and there’s a matcher on the passenger side.

To this, Gerard has added his own personal stamp: “Oh yeah – completely f***ing changed it. I got rid of everything shiny. The fuel tanks are painted. The chassis, exhaust, everything underneath, is painted black. The bits that hang under the cab are painted green.

Got rid of the chrome aircleaner tops – lowered them too. I got rid of the shiny shit. I like them to be a bit more basic – just to look like a working truck.”

And apparently there’s more to come: The personalised plate will be ‘I 4 AN I’ (yep, an eye for an eye) and Gerard will be painting up the rear outside wall of the cab with all the Mack logos from the past 100 years.

Macks, he explains, are what he grew up with – back in Ashburton.

Well, truthfully, “there was only really one Mack….” And there were two Kenworths.

So, he concedes, “my passion probably could have gone either way, to be fair.”

“The first truck I ever drove was a TS3 Commer, at Burnetts in Ashburton. And then I got a Dodge and I thought that was f***ing cool.

And then I transferred up to Farrier

20 | Truck & Driver

Waimak in Christchurch here and got an International with a V8 Detroit in it.

“It was there that I first got involved with Mack. I was about 18 or 19 – and that was about 1983. We started getting those 180-horsepower R Model Macks coming into the fleet.

“I thought ‘well shit! These are cool’ – and I ended up with a 200hp MC with a concrete pump on the back of it. KI 3245.” Yep, that’s the rego number!

Gerard proceeds to tell me his Mack driving history, which is impressive enough…but made even moreso because he can recall great detail about each of the trucks.

Here’s an example: “I picked up a 200hp R Model from Southern Transport – they had it transferred up here. I drove that for quite a while and that went on to become Capital Concrete Group’s No. 3, up in Wellington, JU3868 was the number plate. It went from Southern to Capital Concrete and then it went down south somewhere. Then it went to Kaikoura….it got rolled there and then rebuilt. A guy in Wanaka’s got it now.

“And then I got an R Model from a company in Timaru – IM9310 – and we painted that into Farrier Waimak’s colors and that was only the second gravel truck Mack that got painted into the blue – the colours that they are now.

“NM4735 was an R Model that we got brand-new in Christchurch here and that was the first one to get painted into those colours here.

Clive Taylor’s still got that in Paraparaumu, if I remember rightly.”

And so it goes – one Mack…after another. Some of them trucks

Main picture: With the 34-tonne Komatsu excavator chained down on the MTE three rows of four semi transporter, the Super-Liner unit is at around 55 tonnes all-up

Top, from left: Gold bulldog signifies that this has an all-Mack driveline....100 Years branding includes backlit cutouts in the front bumper.....and on the side of the taller bonnet...Gerard Daldry has a collection of 20 or more near-modern classic Macks that he drove years ago…and has since tracked down and bought – including a couple of R Models, two Super-Liners and two CLs It’s a helluva history of Mack in NZ – but, remarkably in the light of all this, the first truck he owned wasn’t a Mack!

He wanted it to be – and would have liked to have bought an exDibble Brothers Super-Liner that he saw at MTD when he was there getting the Super-Liner he was driving at the time serviced.

He asked the salesman if he could fire it up so he could take it for a drive, but it wouldn’t fire. The salesman (which, he’s at pains to point out, was NOT his mate Murray Sowerby) suggested he come back in a week….

“So about three days later, I was in Auckland and I saw an S-line (International) for sale at Redvale Lime, so I bought that.”

The first Mack he bought, strangely enough, was a CH that, “the last time I saw it before I bought it, was lying on its side at the Paremata roundabout! It was a Hookers truck and some guy had rolled it with a container on it.

“I ended up buying it probably four or five years later. It was a 400hp CH – one of the very original ones still had that R Model chassis in them.

“When I started my own company, which was in ‘97, I bought a Super-Liner off a company up in Wairarapa. We had a few Nissans that were working trucks, but that truck was my toy truck.

“And then I found out about the 1000th Super-Liner there (he points to the truck behind us): This is the 1000th Mack built in NZ in the factory.

“After the Super-Liner, I bought an MC, because my first Mack (that he’d driven, not owned) was an MC. I bought that from Southern Districts Towing up in Auckland. I bought an R Model off them as well – both are around in our shed.

“And it just went from there. As they’ve become available we started to collect one of every model that was built in Palmerston North. So we’ve sort of achieved that.”

So how many exactly? “About 20 Macks – actually, probably more than 20…Every NZ Mack has its original plate back on it.

“Size-wise the Titan’s obviously the biggest – it’s huge – and then the Ultra-Liner. Well, horsepower-wise, the Titan’s 610, the Ultra-Liner is 525, the CL is 525, the Super-Liner is 500, the Cruise-Liner is 440, the FRs are 375. They’re all V8s – all those ones. And then you’ve got 454s, and 350s, 285s and 237s. There’s three 337s and then they range right

Truck & Driver | 21

The standard MP10 in the Daldry truck is rated at the 685hp/510kw maximum

up to the new 685.

“We’ve also got a few Macks in the other shed – like the CL with the Detroit in it that they built in America and sent out here. A few oddball things like that.

“The FR is a 1982 with a 375 V8 and they put an Allison automatic in it at the factory. It was built for the Ministry of Works in Taupo, when they started the geothermal division.

“Guys like Murray (Sowerby) lived through it all – developing all this stuff. A lot of it has been developed just for NZ as well. It’s pretty cool shit.”

Believe it or not, he’s actually sold some of the Macks he’s bought over the years…. although not that many. Three of the older models were double-ups….and he let go a Super-Liner to a friend in the UK. “John’s a good bastard. He’s a real salt-of-the-earth guy….a good bugger. He owns a demolition company in Reading…. He’s sort of kept us going in this business that we’re in – the demolition. Not financially – nothing like that. Just motivationally.”

Anyway, he said he wanted to buy one of Gerard’s Super-Liners: “I said ‘well, you’re not f***ing having one! It went backwards and forwards, and he went upstairs – this is about 10 o’clock at night – and then came back downstairs and threw a big heap of cash on the table and said ‘now do I own it?’ I said: ‘F***, you own it alright….!’ ” As for the Titan – that’s so huge you couldn’t miss it in the shed beside us: “We brought the Titan in from Aussie a couple of years ago because I quite like that bloody thing and it’s the last of the V8s. I’ve used that for the last couple of years. Been all over NZ in it.

“But unfortunately as you buy a new truck, you end up in that quite a lot. I bought the Ultra-Liner – and the Super-Liner stayed in the shed quite a bit. Bought the Titan – so the Ultra-Liner stays in the shed quite a bit!

“Luckily I’ve got a few good mates that come down from the North Island at times and, instead of getting a rental car, they come and grab one of the Macks and use that for a weekend – just to keep them going, you know.

“And there’s a few guys in Christchurch here from other companies that call in every now and then if they’ve got a weekend where they’re not doing much, and they want to go and visit friends in Oamaru or Timaru – they just come and grab a Mack and take it for a run.”

Does he have a favourite? “Mack-wise? No, not really. Probably the 1000th one if you had to put one on it but probably not really.”

Maybe this new 100-Years Super-Liner? “Nah, because the Centenary one is an Australian truck, to be fair – and so is the Titan. The NZ ones are what we originally set out to do – just pick up one of every model that they made in NZ. Just to keep them going.

“So the Aussie ones are cool and they’re all nice to drive around and all that shit, but the NZ ones are where I aimed it all at, at the start.”

He points out a couple of Titans, reckons: “These were sort of the 22 | Truck & Driver

end of Mack…. They’re Volvo now. Like, the Volvo influence has come into them. These V8 Titans were the sort of last of the…true Mack vehicles – engines and things like that.”

In the midst of all this Mackness, he gives a shoutout to Kenworth importers, Southpac Trucks: “I might as well mention them – they’re absolutely faultless in what they do for us and the relationship we’ve got, so I wouldn’t want to step away from them too far.

“But my guts lie with the Macks….even though we’ve got other trucks in the collection, the most significant ones are the Macks.”

In keeping with the easy existence he’s got planned for his one and only brand-new Mack, today’s test isn’t exactly going to be the most taxing – certainly not in terms of tight, twisty roads, monolithic hills or rough roads.

We’re only heading out about 60 kilometres to the start of Lees Valley Road, near Oxford. We will however, be picking up a decent load – a Komatsu PC300LC excavator that weighs-in at around 34 tonnes.

Given that the Super-Liner’s tare is “about” 12.5t and the MTE three rows of four widening semi transporter “is probably 8t,” we’ll be at around 55t all-up for the trip back to the yard – and will be led home by a pilot vehicle escort.

Climbing up into the cab is a two-step, no-front-grabhandle process.

It’s not difficult, but could be easier.

Inside, the dash and dials themselves are familiar Mack LCD displays with cool blue colouring, the backlit features including fuel, digital gauge readouts, trip info, maintenance alerts, fault diagnostics and so on. Plus this special edition also has a Mack 100-Years-branded 6.1inch touchscreen infotainment unit.

The driver-aids include an AM/FM stereo tuner and CD/DVD player, onboard GPS including navigation, a reversing camera, USB port, auxiliary line-in connector, PDF reader and a UHF radio.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel is nice…but lacks the fingertip controls that so many other new trucks have on the wheel. But, then again, everything is still all well within arm’s reach.

The sleeper is something special. It’s been custom-designed and includes one-off storage units, custom trim and a new bunk layout, plus an Engel 40-litre upright fridge, 24” TV/DVD, a microwave, LED lighting, an Icepack aircon system, a pure sine wave inverter, two 120amp batteries and a 12v DC charger.

Gerard has already slept in the truck, when he drove it down from the North Island: “It’s a lot smaller than the Titan. I haven’t used the microwave, fridge or the tv yet.”

The 100-Years plaque on the turnout section of the dash also bears the year, 1965. Gerard explains: “You got to choose a year between 1919 and 2019 – a significant year for yourself….”

“So I picked 1965, when I was born. And they said in Aussie that ‘the chances are you won’t get it – you’ll get either of your other two’….. because lots of guys my age will be buying the bloody things.

Appearance is what first attracts fleet owners to Structurflex truck curtains, but it’s superior design and manufacturing quality that keeps them coming back for more.

Our customers know they’ll get a great run from Structurflex truck curtains, because we combine the best materials with superior features, developed by our in-house engineers. As well as complete cargo protection and easy loading, our curtainsiders give you years of reliable service.

Talk to us about custom-made Flexisider, Slide-A-Side and Citysider curtains, as well as our Tensioner and Whiting and Robinson roller doors.

Call Structurflex on 0800 100 775 email us at info@structurflex.co.nz or visit www.structurflex.co.nz

FLEXISIDER

•

SLIDE-A-SIDE

•

CITYSIDER

•

TENSIONER

•

WHITING

•

ROBINSON

STX2445/1-T&D

ENGINEERED FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE

“But I ended up getting 1965….. My second choice was 1972, which was when Mack trucks started here in NZ.” We head for Oxford with NZ Truck & Driver director Hayden Woolston at the wheel. It’s an easy run, with the MP10 pumping out its 685hp/510kW peak power between 1500 and 1900rpm and producing 2300 lb ft/3118Nm of peak torque from 1000 to 1550 revs. With the TmD12AO23 mDrive 12-speed AMT doing the shifting it’s easy to settle in.

We’re quickly free of the airport-bound traffic and onto Tram Road, heading northwest, towards Oxford – cruising along at 80km/h in top gear, the MP10 ticking over at 1100rpm.

The big golden Bulldog in the centre of the custom bonnet helps Woolston keep it centred.

Through Oxford, at the start of Lees Valley Road, Gerard shows his manoeuvring skills in getting the Super-Liner and the MTE semi transporter turned around and backed a little way up the gravel road to where the big Protranz Komatsu awaits.

The company has about 30 earthmoving machines ranging in size up to the likes of this excavator – Daldry ramping-up what had been a modest demolition business in the wake of the 2010 and ’11 Christchurch earthquakes.

That side of the operation flourished, not least of all because of Protranz’s innovative (and globally award-winning) development of remote-controlled excavators for high-risk demolition jobs.

Gerard and the pilot vehicle driver have soon got the digger up the ramps and all chained down securely, ready for NZ Truck & Driver publisher Trevor Woolston to take the wheel for the drive back to Christchurch.

We ease away and turn back onto the tarmac on Ashley Gorge Rd

with the mDrive in third – steadily picking up from 800rpm and 5km/h road to 10k and 1000 revs.

At 1300rpm the AMT decides to upshift to fifth and is ready to go again at 1200rpm, when an oncoming car has us slowing down to second, so it can safely go by on the narrow road.

Once we’re clear, a steady throttle has the mDrive easily climbing gears again – third, fourth and fifth, each at 1200 revs, then a doubleshift to seventh at 1500 and finally on through eighth, to ninth….at 1400rpm and 40k.

It’s flat around here and there’s nothing to slow us for a while, so we end seeing the AMT take one gear at a time till we’re up to 12th, at around 70k. On a few bends it drops back to 10th, at 50km/h and 1300rpm. Out the other side, it’s soon back up to 11th gear, 1400rpm and 60k.

Approaching a 55km/h corner, the pilot calls to let us know the way ahead is clear, as we slow a little and, at just under 1000 revs, the AMT drops to 10th and 50km/h.

Inside the cab, all is quiet and comfortable, the all-Mack suspension – parabolic springs and heavy-duty shocks on the steer axle and Mack Air Ride on the diffs – doing its job well. Conversation is at talk, not shout level – with the MP10 offering a nice background soundtrack.

At 56km/h, the mDrive pops back up to 11th, and we cruise along at 60k, the engine at 1400rpm. This is very easy on the truck and the driver.

Closing in on the State Highway 1 T-Junction, the Mack PowerLeash engine brake, on full, is reassuringly effective in slowing us down with no footbrake.

Pulling away in first, the MP10 engine seems to be barely getting into its work as the mDrive steadily goes up through the gears – again

www.tes.co.nz

BELLY / BOTTOM DUMPERS

MILK TANKERS

STOCK

LIFT OUT SIDE TIPPERS

ALLOY / STEEL BATHTUBS

LOGGERS

TRANSPORTES

CUSTOM

EG30572

CUSTOM BUILT NATIONWIDE - TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR TRAILER REQUIREMENTS

24 | Truck & Driver

ph. 03 214 3911

email. office@tes.co.nz

OW ST

Above left: Gerard Daldry was, at once, exactly the sort of person Mack was aiming at with its 100-Years Limited Edition models....and also, one of the most unlikely people to buy one Above right: Hayden Woolston comes to grips with how best to climb into the Mack, which has no lower right-hand grabhandle

Coming Soon

K

Y

Phil Butler 021 775 741 • 09 443 4661 11 Marken Place, Glenfield, Auckland, phil@northernforklifts.co.nz

TD30342

d a

Truck & Driver | 25

TD30547

Combilift Container Straddle Carrier

The Fast, Efficient and Safe method of onsite container handling ◆ Improve operator safety, accessibility, comfort, with 360 degree vision

◆ Wire rope container lifting OR non-wire rope container lifting options

◆ Extensive Straddle customisation ability to suit all sites

◆ Double stacking option of high cube containers

◆ Three, Four or Eight wheel options

◆ Speed from 10 Kph to 30 Kph

◆ Lower operating costs & increased productivity

◆ Lifting capacity from 20 tonne to 120 tonne

◆ Extremely manoeuvrable

◆ Specialists for any lifting solutions

Dave Comber 021 310 353 dave.comber@combilift.com Scott Comber 027 302 9896 scott.comber@combilift.com

combilift.com combilift.com

The interior of the Special Edition is all 100-Years plaques, leather seats and steering wheel wrap....plus burgundy ultra-leather trim in the highly customised 58-inch sleeper. It comes with a fridge, microwave, topline aircon, one-off storage units and a 24-inch tv and DVD player

making most shifts at 1200rpm. With the last couple of changes at 1400 revs, we make it to 12th at 70km/h and 1400rpm…and cruise along at 1100.

Back at the yard, Gerard volunteers a bit more about his motivation in buying this truck: “I like the history behind the Macks – and the guys that are passionate about them are f***ing passionate about them.

“There’s a guy, Steven Robinson in America – he runs the Mack Museum over there and he’s a good bastard. He’s another Murray Sowerby. It’s for those sorts of guys.”

Clearly this same passion for the product is part of Gerard too – and that leads me to the question I’ve been wanting to ask: Did he NEED this Centenary special edition truck?

“No, not at all – it’s a straight ‘want’…. For what it stands for, what it represents and for Murray Sowerby. I’ve always said I’d buy a truck off him and we did. Murray told me, ‘100%, this is my last truck.’

“We did have a joke after he left though: Murray had a knee replacement and I told the guys there that he didn’t come down to the right price so I had to sort him out – kneecap him…..and then we came to an agreement,” he laughs.

“It is about relationships: A brand is a brand. Some are better than others, but it’s all about how you get on with the workshop and how you get on with the sales people.” That latter group, he reckons, has to be good – “because, at the end of the day, you’ve got two lots of people you sell trucks to: You’ve got the people that own them and you’ve got the people that drive them – and they’re two totally different people normally.”

The Protranz Centenary Super-Liner isn’t exactly going to be used as

a show-pony….but it’s not going to get worked hard either: “It’s not going to get used every day, but it still will get dirty,” says Gerard.

“We’ll put a few kilometres on it and then let it live in the shed with the Titan and the Super-Liner – probably keep all three of them together. You just open the door and pick whatever you want. Like, I took the Super-Liner there to Invercargill…to Murray’s leaving do. I got back and I thought ‘now, this is pretty cool.’ ” The new Super-Liner does have a superstar job on its hands soon after our test run – hauling some of the staging for Elton John’s NZ concert tour.

“We pick up the concert gear at the airport here – it comes through our shed and clears biosecurity, then we load all the trucks, about 14 or 15 of them, and then take it to Dunedin. After that concert, it’s on to Napier and then to Auckland, and then back to Christchurch again.”

There is at least one other milestone Mack that Gerard would love to have in his collection. He explains: “There were two reasons for buying this Super-Liner. One was because I like an anniversary truck – I think it’s something special, something cool and all that sort of crap.

“But it was Murray Sowerby’s last truck that he ever sold – that was what I was really aiming for. Something pretty significant.

“I would have preferred to wait until 2022 to see if they would release a 50-year truck for NZ – because Mack Trucks is 50 years old in NZ in two years’ time, and it would be real nice if they build a 50-year one.”

In the wake of the passionate Sowerby’s retirement, he’s left wondering if it’s likely to happen: “I think it’s 50/50 if they will make one really.”

But he’s still hoping: “I’d have to have it.” T&D Truck & Driver | 27

Trevor Test

Trevor Woolston finds the big, Centenary 6x4 tractor unit and its MTE three-axle semi transporter not only a good-looking thing....but a nice drive as well

Trevor Woolston

Hayden Woolston

I

T’S BEEN 100 YEARS OF MACK IN AUSTRALIA AND NATURALLY, to celebrate it they’ve brought out a 100-Year Anniversary Super-Liner.

A couple of them have made their way to New Zealand and we catch up with one of them down in Christchurch at Protranz, with owner Gerard Daldry.

It’s an impressive beast with its 58-inch high-rise sleeper and full Australian 100-year customised King bulbar (with under-run protection). It comes complete with the full Aussie Ice Pack, but even on a warm summer’s day in Canterbury we don’t need it.

Our job today is to bring back an excavator from out towards Lees Valley to the Protranz yard just down the road from the Christchurch Airport.

No visit to Protranz would be complete without a nosey around Gerard’s impressive collection of trucks, with many NZ-built Macks and an extensive range of parts, including several E9 V8 engines.

We tag-team the test drive, with my son Hayden running out empty to the pickup, while I take it back loaded.

Climbing up into the cab, we encounter the same issue we came across when we tested the Fulton-Hogan Mack down in Cromwell – no lower righthand grabrail…and far less than a 90-degree-opening door.

Steps are fine, with two inset into the tank giving plenty of depth and width, then a long platform step at the top giving good access into the cab.

With no lower right hand grabrail, you use the door pocket from the ground – then use the upper door pillar grabhandle once you’re on the second step.

Once in the cab there’s plenty of room to get comfortable, with a top-ofthe-range ISRI Premium Big Boy driver’s seat, plus a matching passenger seat.

There’s no gearstick to have to move around to get into the sleeper box

28 | Truck & Driver

and it makes for a nice open feeling in the cab. A flat floor adds to the ease of internal cab access.

The custom-designed 100-year special sleeper includes comprehensive storage, custom trim and bunk layout and a handful of other driverpampering extras.

The dash layout is very traditional, with tachometer and speedo right in front of the driver, surrounded by various engine function gauges and a central Co-Pilot dash display with various operational information.

Over to the left, in the centre of the cab, are the additional controls including the 100-Year touchscreen infotainment unit that includes a wide range of functions. Above it is the AMT gear selection panel which we have criticised in the past for its distance from the driver…and below it is the climate control unit.

Various other switches are located to the right of this section of the dash, closer to the driver, including those controlling the Mack PowerLeash engine brake, wipers and traction control.

After our recent drive in a Volvo with somewhat shared heritage it’s disappointing that there are so few controls on the steering column and wheel. The only stalk controls are indicators and lights to the left and cruise control to the right. All other controls are located on the central dash and require the driver to take his line of sight away from the road to locate them.

Steering adjustment took some figuring out, till we found a small pedal above the throttle pedal. It allowed a very good range of adjustment.

This, combined with one of the best seats in the industry, make for a very comfortable driving position.

Once on the road we find the steering well weighted and giving a very

• SPECIFICATIONS •

MACK SUPER-LINER CLX64T 6x4 100 YEARS LIMITED EDITION Engine: Mack MP10 Capacity: 16.1 litres Maximum power: 510kW (685hp) @ 1500-1900rpm Maximum torque: 3118Nm (2300 lb ft) @ 1000-1550rpm Fuel capacity: 1550 litres Transmission: 12-speed TmD12AO23 Mack mDrive automated manual Ratios: 1st – 11.73 2nd – 9.21 3rd – 7.09 4th – 5.57 5th – 4.35 6th – 3.41 7th – 2.70 good feel for the road, with very little correction needed to hold a good line on what are quite narrow roads (specially once the transporter has been widened).

Mirrors are the traditional West Coaster setup – motorised and heated, with a small circular convex mirror mounted under the left hand side mirror.

Throttle response is very positive and smooth, with power from the 16-litre Mack MP10 coming through.

It’s got 685hp at 1500 to 1900rpm and 2300 lb ft of torque at 1000-1550rpm, so no wonder there’s plenty under the throttle.

Once loaded you can certainly feel the weight, but this just makes the engine dig in harder and you certainly don’t have to bury the boot to make it go.

The Mack mDrive AMT delivers this power to the road smoothly without any need to consider going into manual mode. As I wind my way out from our pickup point, on a narrow road with plenty of double yellow lines, I’m certainly thankful for our pilot vehicle, clearing the road ahead of us. But even then, I’m constantly on and off the throttle and the mDrive is regularly shifting up and down.

Noise levels inside this heavy hauler are extremely quiet with conversation in the cab at normal voice levels.

Ride is also great, both empty and loaded.

However, it has to be said that the road out to Oxford and back is very straight and smooth.

Vison out of the cab is dominated by the big customised Super-Liner bonnet, however (as in the past in these trucks) it is easy to judge where the edge of the road is and keep the truck nicely positioned on these narrow roadways.

The gold Bulldog denotes that this truck is 100% Mack all the way through and this brings to mind the combined heritage of the Mack and Volvo brands and the strong, combined engine and transmission development shared by both brands – making them a leading driveline performer in the world truck market.

There’s no missing the message that this is a 100Year anniversary special, with its customised bonnet and grille, the big sleeper, the branding inside and out etc.

It’s one of those trucks that you really get a buzz out of driving – and we both feel very comfortable slipping in behind the wheel.

This truck will not be one of Gerard’s frontline fleet trucks – just doing the occasional job. There’s another one of these 100-Year special edition trucks going into Silverdale operator Skip Golden’s fleet – and it will probably end up in a similar role. So you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled to catch a glimpse of these impressive beasts out on the highways. T&D

8th – 2.12 9th – 1.63 10th – 1.28 11th – 1.00 12th – 0.78 Front axle: FXL 16.5, with unitised hubs, rated at 7500kg Rear axles: Mack 2370B singlereduction, rated at 23,000kg Auxiliary brakes: Mack PowerLeash decompression engine retarder Front suspension: Parabolic springs, shock absorbers Rear suspension: Mack Air-Ride (RADD-GR) GVW: 28,500kg GCM: 70,000kg

Truck & Driver | 29

Quality, Reliability and Residual Value that you can count on, year after year

Video Showcase See stunning videos of these units on our website at www.tandg.co.nz/news or scan this QR code with your smartphone camera

Ingrained into T&G culture — uncompromising quality, a commitment to innovation, constantly improving, fostering long-term partnerships with our customers and suppliers, passion for our brand, nationwide service and support, a commitment to the transport industry and a 100-year vision for the company. This is who we are.

www.tandg.co.nz . sales@tandg.co.nz .

TransportTrailers

Transport & General Engineering

THE DRIVING FORCE OF NEW ZEALAND TRUCKING

The legalisation of cannabis has potentially serious road safety implications for trucking companies and their drivers

Cannabis referendum serious for industry W

by Nick Leggett Chief Executive Road Transport Forum NZ

HEN YOU HEAD TO THE BALLOT box on September 19, you aren’t just going to be voting in a general election….you will also be asked to vote on two binding referendums that could have far reaching consequences for our community.

The first is around the question of euthanasia – specifically do you support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 coming into force? – the Act being the legislation that gives people with a terminal illness the option of requesting assisted dying.

Parliament has already passed the End of Life Choice Act 2019, but it will only come into force if a majority vote ‘Yes’ in the referendum.

The second referendum – and the one the Road Transport Forum has more professional interest in – is around the legalisation of recreational cannabis.

Unlike the referendum on euthanasia, the recreational cannabis referendum asks voters to base their vote purely on draft legislation – the Cannabis Legalisation and Control Bill.

This is a key difference between the two plebiscites and something of very serious concern to RTF. The End of Life Choice Act has been through the full parliamentary process and

has been scrutinised and amended through public consultation.

The Cannabis Legalisation and Control Bill, on the other hand, has had none of this and is not even in a state where it could be introduced to Parliament.

The Bill’s status is as a work-in-progress draft, designed to simply indicate the likely framework and core legislative components of a future Bill. Frankly, it looks a bit like a copy and paste job at this stage. I don’t think, for such an important decision, that is good enough. New Zealanders deserve to know exactly what they are voting for.

One of RTF’s biggest concerns is around the broad health and safety implications of a ‘yes’ vote. It doesn’t fill us with any confidence that Minister of Justice Andrew Little has said that the risks of drugged driving and workplace impairment wouldn’t be investigated until after the referendum vote. In other words, vote first and see what happens later!

Again, that’s not good enough. Strict health and safety legislation binds employers and anyone who is a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) to strict liability around appropriate workplace health and safety measures. Heavy fines and even prison sentences can result Truck & Driver | 31

THE DRIVING FORCE OF NEW ZEALAND TRUCKING

from inadequate safety provisions.

I just do not think it is fair to ask NZers to vote on something that could have major implications under the Health and Safety at Work Act, yet to not have specific information on exactly what the correlation will be.

Currently, there is no practical way for employers to test drug impairment, and no discussion on the impact that the proposed Bill will have on other safety-focused legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Land Transport Act. How then can road freight business owners and their directors judge the consequences of a ‘yes’ vote on September 19?

The safety implications for the road transport industry carry over to the safety of our roads, of course. We already know that the number of people being killed by drug-impaired drivers on NZ roads is higher than those killed by drivers above the legal alcohol limit.

Although the Government has told us that they will be instituting roadside saliva-based drug testing sometime in 2021, there is still no real way to test for impairment to get drugged drivers off the road. It is also unclear as to how this will relate to the Cannabis Legislation and Control Bill.

The casualness with which this Government is approaching these issues and the referendum generally, is of major concern to RTF. There is just not enough certainty around the implications of a binding ‘yes’ vote and how that will affect our industry.

That doesn’t mean RTF is unwilling to engage on the issue, however.

While polls have the ‘no’ vote seemingly in a strong position, there is a long way to go and I will make sure we take every opportunity to discuss our concerns with Government and advocate for a safety-first approach if the legalisation of recreational cannabis does indeed take place. T&D

Andrew Little, the minister in charge of the draft Cannabis Legalisation and Control Bill

PREZZY CARDS SWEETEN DEAL FOR SURVEY RESPONDERS

N

EW ZEALAND TRUCK & DRIVER READERS MAY recall the request Road Transport Forum put out late last year for operators to undertake the cost comparison survey – the basis of the quarterly Road Transport Cost Index.

“Every few years it is necessary for us to update the information the Index is based on – and that means getting as many operators as possible to complete the survey,” says RTF technical manager Kerry Arnold.

The University of Waikato School of Management’s NZ Institute for Business Research (NZIBR) was commissioned to conduct the survey, collate and clean the data and turn it into the model to be used for the Road Transport Cost Index.

“Our aim was to get at least 200 operators to participate.

Unfortunately, initial responses were very slow in coming in, which is why we made the decision to try to incentivise operator participation by offering three prizes of $1000 Prezzy cards.”

Following the offer of the cards the response rate increased by around 30% and managed to surpass the last time we ran the survey.

Even so, the 200 target was not reached.

“In total we had 134 registrations for the survey, with 74 completing 32 | Truck & Driver

the questionnaire in full. Ten others began but did not go back and complete it,” says Arnold.

“Again, it was disappointing that members failed to participate in the numbers that ideally, we would have liked. The cost index is such a valuable tool for operators and all we can do is encourage greater participation in future.”

RTF is, nevertheless, confident that NZIBR will produce a suitable report and the integrity of the index will be preserved and continue to provide useful information to operators for the next few years.

The winners of the $1000 Prezzy Cards were selected using a random number selector and are: Bev Young of Pukekohe Carriers, Susan Martin of Midlands Rural Transport and Paul Turner of Turner Transport.

Says Arnold: “ We thank them and the rest of the survey’s participants for contributing to what is such an important tool for our membership.”

All operators who did take part in the survey will get access to the anonymised information collected as well as a free individualised report presenting information about how their financial overheads and returns compare with the rest of the industry. T&D

THE DRIVING FORCE OF NEW ZEALAND TRUCKING

IMPROVEMENT IN LEVEL-CROSSING SAFETY F

IGURES RELEASED BY KIWIRAIL SHOW THAT 2019 had the lowest number of collisions between vehicles and trains on record.

Last year, there were 12 collisions between vehicles and trains – just two of them involving heavy vehicles. This was down from 25 collisions in 2018, three of which involved heavy vehicles.

“We really want to commend New Zealand motorists and truck drivers on this outcome,” says TrackSAFE NZ manager Megan Drayton.

“While obviously one collision is one too many, it’s encouraging to see the number of collisions come down to such a low level at a time when traffic on both the road and rail networks continues to increase.

“People seem to be realising that trains always have legal right of way, they travel extremely fast, and they cannot stop in a hurry. It’s fantastic to see that most people are acting safely and legally at level-crossings, and are fully aware of the risks of crossing the rail network.”

The decline in crossing collisions comes on the back of a number of programmes undertaken over the past 10 years to reduce level crossing incidents.

KiwiRail, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and local councils have worked together to upgrade level crossings by providing better visibility and signage as well as infrastructure improvements, such as changing road alignments and installing flashing lights, bells and half-arm barriers.

Says Drayton: “The work by KiwiRail, Waka Kotahi NZTA and local councils to upgrade crossings around NZ are starting to have benefits.

We also hope that our collective ongoing safety campaigns are helping to create awareness around level crossing dangers.

“While trucks were only involved in two level crossing collisions last year, we cannot rest on our laurels,” she adds.

“Trucks, especially combination vehicles, are long and we know that there are hundreds of level crossings around NZ that are of high risk to longer vehicles.”

Many level crossings don’t have barrier arms, bells or lights, while around 350 have short stacking distances (resulting in part of a vehicle risking being stopped on the tracks due to an adjacent intersection).

TrackSAFE partnered with the Road Transport Forum to design a research project in 2018 that focused on the safety of level-crossings from the perspective of truck drivers.

The research showed that truck drivers often developed their own strategies to try to make level-crossings safer, including using spotters,

34 | Truck & Driver

P

•

•

taking alternative routes and stopping, looking and listening for trains.

However, poor visibility and instances of short-stacking were still significant issues.

“The findings from the research are helping to inform level-crossing safety campaigns and assist with infrastructure improvements to remove some of the instances of short stacking and poor visibility,” says Drayton.

“Collisions between trains and trucks might be relatively infrequent but they can have a horrific result for those involved, due to the size, mass and speed of the vehicles involved. It is critical that truck drivers maintain vigilance around level crossings and continue to pay careful attention to their surrounds.” T&D

B M refu

Weighing Equipment Proven Weigh Systems In NZ For Over 20 Years With: • Dedicated Personnel For Technical Support • Full Back-Up Parts Inventory

• Technical Support & Suppliers Of An Extensive Parts Range For Most Brands • Weigh Systems For Most Applications

Taylor Bros Transport Ltd - manufactured by Transfleet Trailers Ltd

Brausch Contracting Ltd – Masterton, manufactured and refurbished by Patchell Industries

Trans West Freighters 2011 Ltd – Greymount, manufactured by Jackson Enterprises

Dynes Transport – Tapanui, manufactured by Patchell Stainless

Weighing Equipment Is Our Business!!

150 View Road, Rotorua, New Zealand • Ph: 07 349 4700 • Fax: 07 349 4800

SI Lodec South Island Ltd

www.silodec.co.nz

TD30546

Sales and Service - Contact Mike Long 021 651 965

TIME FOR AN OIL CHANGE TransDiesel are now New Zealand’s official distributor of Shell motor oils and lubricants.

Now that’s an upgrade.

Visit TransDiesel.com to find out more.

* Buy any Shell Helix or Rimula products in March 2020 and be entered into the draw.

1390-TD-Shell-NZTruckDriver-210x297_FA.indd 1

11/03/20 1:57 PM

THE DRIVING FORCE OF NEW ZEALAND TRUCKING

t One hundred and sixty delegates from across the transport industry listen to the parties’ plans at the Election 2017 Transport Summit

s

TRANSPORT A BIG FACTOR IN ELECTION 2020

T

RANSPORT AND THE PROVISION OF TRANSPORT infrastructure are always areas of major policy debate in any election. However, the 2020 general election, more than any other within recent memory, promises to be a contest characterised in part by the different transport plans of our major political parties.

“The infrastructure deficit that has been building over a few decades has become acute and a number of chickens are now coming home to roost,” says RTF’s Nick Leggett.

“New Zealand seems to have been content to watch our population grow, especially in urban centres – and, with that, the expansion of our economy. However, we have completely failed to provide the necessary investment in infrastructure to cater for this.

“This problem isn’t restricted to transport either: Housing and urban development have lagged a long way behind where they need to be and we are also seeing a major deterioration in a lot of our underground infrastructure, hospitals and school buildings.

“RTF’s emphasis, of course, is on transport and it is apparent that NZ is severely lagging behind where we need to be – and that is now having an impact on the lives of NZers and the productivity of our economy.

“For those of us who straddle the ground between the coal-face of the industry and government, it is obvious that NZ is at a real fork in the road when it comes to our transport future,” says Leggett.

“The visions of the two major parties have never been further apart TD30546

,

on transport, and that’s without counting the influence of the minor parties – especially those currently in Government – who have staked a lot of political capital on pushing their own transport agendas.

“The recent NZ Upgrade announcement that included $5.5billion of new road building, almost exclusively in the North Island, was the first acknowledgment from this Government that good-quality, modern roads have a significant role to play in a safe and productive transport system.

“Unfortunately, uncertainty was poured over these new roads almost immediately by Associate Minister of Transport and Green Party MP Julie Anne Genter, who made public her view that the roads should not be built. With some of the announced projects having long lead-in times, the message was clear – if the Greens are in a position to form a Government with Labour alone, then it is possible that the roading component of the NZ Upgrade could be shelved.”

Leggett says that, in a bid to get some further clarity on exactly where the political parties stand, RTF is organising an election year summit on behalf of a consortium of organisations with an interest in road transport, including the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Bus and Coach Association, Motor Industry Association, Motor Trade Association, NZ Heavy Haulage Association, Crane Association of NZ and the AA. The Transporting NZ 2020 Election Summit is to be held at

Truck & Driver | 37

THE DRIVING FORCE OF NEW ZEALAND TRUCKING

Road Transport Forum was established in 1997 to represent the combined interest of all members as a single organisation at a national level.

Members of Road Transport Forum’s regionally focussed member associations are automatically affiliated to the Forum.

Road Transport Forum NZ PO Box 1778, Wellington 04 472 3877 forum@rtf.nz www.rtfnz.co.nz Nick Leggett, Chief Executive 04 472 3877 021 248 2175 nick@rtf.nz

Economist Cameron Bagrie will participate as part of the political panel at the Transporting NZ 2020 Election Summit

Te Papa, in Wellington, on June 30 and is designed to assist the broader transport, logistics and motor vehicle sectors understand and engage with the various political parties’ transport-related policies.

Infrastructure, workforce, education, legalising recreational cannabis, and transport’s environmental considerations are some of the key issues that will be debated.

“RTF is giving our traditional two-day conference a break this year as we want to focus the industry’s attention on the pressing political issues that face the transport sector and the importance of holding politicians to account around election time,” says Leggett.

“I hope that operators will consider taking time out of their busy schedules to come to Wellington to participate in the Summit as I think it will provide them with a good understanding of where the various parties are coming from before the election campaign kicks off in earnest.”

The plan is to begin the day with a panel of the five main party leaders, or their transport spokespeople, who will outline their policies as well as participate in a panel discussion and questions from the floor.

A panel of political commentators, including Cameron Bagrie and Business NZ’s Kirk Hope, will provide some analysis on the various party policies, and the final sessions will be held with industry and economic experts. There will be plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with delegates from across the sector with a morning tea, lunch and the Teletrac Navman cocktail event at the end of the day.

More details, including the day’s programme and online registration, are available at transportsummit. org.nz. T&D 38 | Truck & Driver

National Road Carriers (NRC) PO Box 12-100, Penrose, Auckland 0800 686 777 09 622 2529 (Fax) enquiries@natroad.nz www.natroad.co.nz David Aitken, Chief Executive 09 636 2951 021 771 911 david.aitken@natroad.nz Paula Rogers, Executive Officer 09 636 2957 021 771 951 paula.rogers@natroad.nz Jason Heather, Executive Officer 09 636 2950 021 771 946 jason.heather@natroad.nz Richie Arber, Executive Officer 021 193 3555 richie.arber@natroad.nz Road Transport Association of NZ (RTANZ) National Office, PO Box 7392, Christchurch 8240 0800 367 782 03 366 9853 (Fax) admin@rtanz.co.nz www.rtanz.co.nz Area Executives Northland/Auckland/Waikato/ Thames-Coromandel/Bay of Plenty/ North Taupo/King Country Scott Asplet 0800 367 782 (Option 2) 027 445 5785 sasplet@rtanz.co.nz

South Taupo/Turangi/Gisborne/ Taranaki/Manawatu/Horowhenua/ Wellington Sandy Walker

0800 367 782 (Option 3) 027 485 6038 swalker@rtanz.co.nz Northern West Coast/Nelson/ Marlborough/North Canterbury John Bond 0800 367 782 (Option 4) 027 444 8136 jbond@rtanz.co.nz Southern West Coast/Christchurch/ Mid-Canterbury/South Canterbury Simon Carson 0800 367 782 (Option 5) 027 556 6099 scarson@rtanz.co.nz Otago/Southland Alan Cooper 0800 367 782 (Option 6) 027 315 5895 acooper@rtanz.co.nz NZ Trucking Association (NZTA) PO Box 16905, Hornby, Christchurch 8441 0800 338 338 03 349 0135 (Fax) info@nztruckingassn.co.nz www.nztruckingassn.co.nz David Boyce, Chief Executive 03 344 6257 021 754 137 dave.boyce@nztruckingassn.co.nz Carol McGeady, Executive Officer 03 349 8070 021 252 7252 carol.mcgeady@nztruckingassn.co.nz Women in Road Transport (WiRT) www.rtfnz.co.nz/ womeninroadtransport wirtnz@gmail.com

YOU HANDLE THE LOAD.

LET PETERSON TAKE CARE OF YOUR LED LIGHTING

Be Safe - Be Seen!

PETERSON LUMENX LIGHTING FEATURES Designed by Peterson USA | Manufactured by Peterson USA | International sell brand Peterson USA Limited lifetime warranty, rated life 100,000 hours.

Mounting orientation, superior optics allow 360 degree compliance.

Heavy duty plug n play harness, insert moulded plug terminals, wire gauge 18 awg. Integral mounting flange with skirt welded lens eliminates leakage points.

Trusted lighting manufacturer since 1945, LED lights introduced in 1995.

Proven in heavy duty applications, major usage by OE manufacturers and fleet operators. Accredited supplier to Caterpillar and Harley Davidson.

www.cdlautoparts.co.nz ☎ 09 262 1417 sales@cdlautoparts.co.nz

by

Brighter, Safer, Better Looking & Made in America

TD30438

CDL AUTOPARTS LTD

Never mind the b Story Dave McLeod Photos Gerald Shacklock & Rod Simmonds

The longtime Mitsubishi-dominated fleet has lately been buying Mercedes-Benz.

This Actros, driven by Dean Simmons (far right), is one of two bought new last year

GPS Tracking – eRUC – Job Management – eLogbook 0800 447 735 40 | Truck & Driver

TeletracNavman.co.nz

FLEET FOCUS

e big, juicy jobs…

GPS Tracking – eRUC – Job Management – eLogbook 0800 447 735

TeletracNavman.co.nz

Truck & Driver | 41

Hiring of the company’s first non-family dispatcher has freed-up Matt Young to run the transport operations....and often get involved first-hand in the loading and unloading at the company’s Pukekohe depot

Y

OU DON’T NEED TO TELL PUKEKOHE TRUCKING company mother and son Bev and Matt Young that old adage about not putting all your eggs in one basket.

Once upon a time, back in the days when Bev’s husband Bruce was still alive, they dared to risk testing the truth of the saying….and got burnt.

Pukekohe Carriers, now in its 37 th year, was lucky to survive the experience, says Matt: In 1986, Bev and Bruce took a punt – taking up the offer of a contract with a big produce company to cart its produce from Pukekohe to Auckland….

Conditional on the two-truck business putting on six extra trucks, to do the work. For a little company, just a couple of years old, it was a huge deal.

Another Puke company, Powells Transport, had previously done the job, Bev explains: “We were approached and asked if we wanted to take it over – and Bruce even went and spoke to Richard Powell, because he didn’t want to step on his toes.

Richie just grinned and said ‘you can have it.’ ” Later, she says – smiling thinly – “we found out why.”

Within 18 months, the job was “turning to custard,” as Bev puts it mildly: The money they were being paid for the work was “never…anywhere near” what the local boss of the produce company had laid out in writing – and “that’s what we took to the bank, to borrow the money to buy the trucks.”

Confirms Matt: “It never made any money from the day they started it.”

Then, to add insult to injury, the produce company boss demanded they stop topping-up the trucks with produce from

other growers….

And added another new stipulation: They’d also have to stop backloading freight from Auckland to Puke.

Bev explains how it had been working till then: “Yeah, we pretty much did produce in the morning and then brought freight back. There was a truck that used to go out West Auckland and used to bring back freight from the west and the Shore trucks used to bring back freight from there.

But then the customer insisted “no top-ups – and no backloading freight. They wanted the trucks to come home empty,” she adds.

The deal finally turned to the proverbial when the demand was made that the Youngs would have to buy six new Mitsubishis and brand their curtains with the produce company’s signwriting…at no cost to the customer. And no increase in the cartage rate!

As to why – that’s a question that triggers the suggestion from Matt, just a kid at the time, that the guy they had to deal with “was just an arsehole.”

And, he adds: “I can tell you, my old man would say a lot worse! I think they just wanted a carrier to do their work…. and their work only. And then the final killer was when they wanted to bring new trucks in.”

Bev went back to them with “what the rate needed to be – to go up (to Auckland) and come home empty and be parked up….not used for anything else.”

Continues Matt: “They said no. Dad pretty much pulled the pin there and then. They told us on a Friday ‘don’t come back Truck & Driver | 43

Above: The fleet back in 2014, with just one Merc among the Mitsis

Below: 1989 model Mitsubishi FV418 was into its second life with Pukekohe Carriers in 2010 – after starting out with United Carriers Monday.’

“They’d found several owner-drivers up in town that were prepared to buy extra trucks – new trucks – and brand them…..I can’t remember the name of it exactly.”

It didn’t end well for them either, he reckons: Within a year the produce company “went broke – and took the new carriers with them.”

It was no consolation for the Youngs: “Dad always said, we’d never live or die by one job ever again..…it nearly killed him. So we’ve never had one big juicy job since – we stick with little ones.”

The company had from the outset done some seasonal produce work – like kiwifruit and onions – in addition to its general freight business. Says Bev: “So the guys would do freight until about four o’clock in the afternoon and, in the kiwifruit season, do kiwifruit until about 10 o’clock at night.”

After the produce contract came to its abrupt and unhappy end, the kiwifruit season at least allowed them to carry their staff on for a while – long enough anyway so the drivers “had time to find other jobs. And then at the end of the kiwifruit we ditched about seven jobs and went back to two or three

trucks.”

Which was how things had started out – back in 1984 and ’85, with the beginnings of the company: Bev and Bruce bought parts of two existing local companies – the general freight work of Stembridge Transport, a long-established business which was closing down, and Fletchers Transport.

Says Bev: “My father (Terry Skelton) actually drove for Stembridge, back in the 1940s/’50s. It came to an end when one of the new owners got sick and wanted out, so they broke it up. It was a pretty big company.

“We bought one Stembridge truck and the run that it did.

And then, a year later, we bought the Fletcher’s truck and its run,” which was around Patumahoe, where the Youngs lived.

The Stembridge truck was a 1981 D-Series Ford and the Fletchers followup was six years older – but it did come with a near-new trailer.

Bev reckons that although Bruce had long been driving trucks for a living, she’d never been previously aware of any great ambition on his part to own a truck or start a transport company.

He’d been driving since he was 18 – abandoning the family

Truck & Driver | 45

Right: The company is a true family business, with Alana Meechan (left) recently returning to the company joining Mum Bev and brother Matt

Below, left: The company’s three current Merc Actroses lined up beside the 14-year-old Mitsi FUSO FS430 at last year’s Pukekohe Truck Show Below, right: A company ad in the local

newspaper back in the 1980s

dairy farm in favour of heading to Aussie and becoming a truckie, as Matt details: “He started out working for a crowd in Sydney, then he moved to North Queensland Express running a double roadtrain, with a four-wheeler MAN tractor unit, doing Sydney-Mt Isa and Mt Isa-Darwin.”

When he returned home, he worked around Pukekohe – and had been carting starch with an International Paystar 5000 tanker unit for local chicken farmer Royce Riordan (whose company has now evolved into Riordan & West) when the Stembridge opportunity arose.

It came about simply because old rugby team-mate Colin Batters, who owned Waiuku Carriers, had bought one Stembridge truck….and was then offered two more, with Pukekohe general freight runs.

It so happened that Riordan had lost the starch contract, so Bruce was out of a job when Batters suggested he might take one of the Stembridge trucks.

Matt reckons that Bruce’s plan to buy a milk run was ditched in favour of a partnership between himself, Bev and Colin – with Bruce and Colin driving, a paid driver running Colin’s Puke truck, and with Bev taking care of the accounts.

Well that... AND delivering parcels. She explains: “Bruce reckoned I would know where the shops were more than him, so I used to meet up with him when he got back to Puke.

“We had a stationwagon at the time, so – with three kids under five in the back seat and the boot area filled with parcels – I would work my way down the main street.

“Sometimes I’d get back to the car – and find all three kids gone! They’d reached over the back and got a small parcel 46 | Truck & Driver

each, and taken them into random shops – helping Mum! “The shopkeepers thought it was hilarious. Me? Not so much, when I had to retrieve them!”

It only lasted a couple of years before Colin decided he didn’t want to be bothered employing a driver and sold his second truck – leaving Bruce and Bev to run their own Pukebased business, doing general freight locally.

A van was purchased so Bev could do local deliveries, and sometimes go to town to pick up freight during school hours.

It was, sums up Bev, “pretty much veggies up to the markets – when Turners Auctions used to be right up there in (downtown) Auckland. Once they unloaded at the markets, there were a lot of pickups in the city – mostly out of combined carriers’ depots, the Motor Lorry Assn in Union Street and Highway Haulers in St Georges Bay Road, Parnell – to bring back down here.

“Back in those days it was just one run per day – so they used to unload in the morning up there, then start doing all the pickups and then work their way back south,” says Bev. Says Matt: “The first year was with just one truck – the Stembridge truck – and it went to the second one when we picked up the additional run. Dad actually drove for Fletchers as well before he worked for Royce Riordan and that’s how he knew George (the owner of Fletchers)” …and how he came to be offered the Fletchers unit.

The business stayed at that two-truck level “for a year or so” – until the big produce company job saw the addition of another D-Series Ford, two Bedfords, an Isuzu, a Commer… and another Matt can’t recall.

Do more with every minute in the Croner: UD Truck’s new medium duty solution.

DRIVER EFFICIENCY Allison automatic DRIVER EFFICIENCY transmission and ergonomic cab design PRODUCT UPTIME Robust component PRODUCT UPTIME design and a high tensile steel frame SAFETY Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), SAFETY Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), driver's airbag and seatbelt pretensioner as standard

PRODUCTIVITY 4x2 and 6x2 configurations.

PRODUCTIVITY Wheelbase, rear-axle ratio and suspension options FUEL EFFICIENCY GH8E engine with FUEL EFFICIENCY 1,050Nm of torque and UD’s on-board fuel coach UPTIME SUPPORT Genuine service and parts

UPTIME SUPPORT

To find out more, contact your local UD Trucks Dealer: Northland/Auckland/Waikato 09 250 1800 | Rotorua/Thames/Coromandel 0274 912 793 | Manawatu/ Horowhenua/Wanganui/Taranaki/Hawkes Bay 027 446 6374 | Wellington/Hutt Valley/Kings Coast/Wairarapa 021 284 7788 | Nelson 027 589 5552 | Blenheim/Canterbury/Timaru 03 349 0044 | Southland 03 215 8250

Going the Extra Mile

Going the Extra Mile

They were all secondhand: For starters, says Matt, “we weren’t doing big Ks.” But also, new trucks were expensive, “and the company hadn’t been going that long.”

A contract with Speedlink, carrying parcels from the Auckland Railway Station, necessitated another truck – a 4x2 Ford D Series, which was painted in Speedlink’s bright green.

The 18 months of unhappiness running for the produce company was, unfortunately, quickly followed by a couple of other setbacks – the first of them delivered by the 1987 sharemarket crash.

Says Matt: “The kiwifruit season kept us going to June. In October the sharemarket fell over, quite a few customers went broke – and we lost a lot of money through that.

“And then in ‘88 Transpac went broke, owing us about $7000, which was a lot of money back then.

“Transpac and all the subsidiaries that they owned represented quite a big chunk of work for us.

“And they used to do a lot of kiwifruit – and that fell over too, in the late ‘80s, early ‘90s.

“And after that it pretty much went back to one truck…..

The old man just went back to driving himself, till I left high school in ‘96 and went on a van.”

“We stayed like that for a while – and then Dad and I swapped, because I turned 18 and got my HT.” But another year on, Matt left home to drive in the States for a couple of years – able to get a visa as an agricultural worker. He ended up driving a new Peterbilt 379 carting farm machinery and grain far and wide – and saved enough money to buy the land on the northern edge of Puke that’s been the

company’s depot ever since.

When Matt returned to work for the business, around 2001 or ’02, “we had a few trucks by then.” And they soon bought a couple more – a 6x4 rigid bought for Matt and a semi….both secondhand Mitsis. The tractor unit is still with them – in the workshop: “It’s like a pet! It stays here.”

Continues Matt: “And then, ever since, it’s just slowly over the years been one (more) truck added every year or second year.”

The company also added a few four-wheelers, doing general freight – for “a mixture of freight forwarders and our own jobs.”

Bev laughs: “Bruce couldn’t say no. If someone asked him to take over a job – ‘oh yeah, we’ll do that.’ And then ‘actually, we’d better buy another truck.’ ” Lesson learnt though….they were all small contracts, says Matt: “Yeah, we never had one truck committed to any one job. So they all did multiple jobs during the day and then – when it all got a bit too much – we’d take on another driver and then slowly build back up.

“And then the same situation: Need another truck, another driver. It was a truck every year or 18 months for a long time – just slowly, steadily built up.”

Then, in 2010, things took a tragic turn for the Youngs – Bruce suffering a massive heart attack early one morning and dying.

Along with his grief, Matt – who’d been driving up to that time – had to deal with filling his Dad’s role as dispatcher: “It was the last time I drove a truck fulltime basically. I just

Robertson Isuzu are the authorised distributor for bodies.

special purpose truck

are Japan’s leading manufacturer of special purpose truck bodies.

W

F

⊲ ⊲ ⊲ ⊲ ⊲ Compactor bodies can be supplied in 4m3 to 12.2m3 and fitted to any appropriate chassis.

Ian Renner 027 678 1714 • ian@robertsonisuzu.co.nz

TD29913

56 RAILWAY ROAD, PALMERSTON NORTH PHONE 06 355 5062

5 w

A 2006 Mitsubishi FUSO FS430 8x4 delivers supplies to a local chicken farm

YOUR TRUCK, YOUR WAY! ,

With Roadrunner, you re in the drivers’ seat.

Fully customisable, New Zealand made. ⊲ ⊲ ⊲ ⊲ ⊲

Toolboxes Hydraulic Tanks Fuel Tanks Combination Tanks Air Tanks ALL ROADRUNNER PRODUCTS ARE

ed ny

TD29913

WE MAKE EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED

x.

Double door toolbo

Toolboxes built to suit..

53 Bridge Street, Bulls | (06) 322 1575 www.roadrunnerltd.co.nz | info@roadrunnerltd.co.nz

Above left: Bruce and Bev Young, back in 2003. Sadly, Bruce died suddenly in 2010 Above, right: These days Bev co-owns the company with son Matt

Top: The company trucks do two trips to Auckland city each weekday, then run around the region, doing deliveries and pickups

came off the road and went into the office.”

The same day that his Dad died, “I just had to go back in (to the office) that afternoon and start putting it all (the next day’s schedule) together. Probably for about awhh, six months after that, every second phone call was ‘can I speak to Bruce…..’ ” Tough…especially when father and son had been very close: “Yeah, I was the one who didn’t want to go to kindy, ‘cos I’d rather go with the old man in the truck.”

Bruce’s death left “a huge hole,” says Bev: “He just had everything in his head…had a knack of looking at something and knowing what vehicle he would need to do it, how to load it.

“He always maintained that a truck wasn’t fully loaded until the toolbox and passenger seat were full too!

“He often used to go into some of the other freight depots we worked for and start telling them how to do their job – in a nice way: ‘You should be staging this like this’ etc. He could see a problem before it happened.”

50 | Truck & Driver

The good thing, she says, is that Matt has the same skills: “It took him a while, but he can see things that same way.

He’s his father’s son.”

In more ways than one, as Matt agrees: “The biggest problem is – like Dad always said too – not being able to say ‘no.’ Somebody asks you to do something, you always find a way of doing it.”

And that often means….buying another truck. Thus what was a six-truck fleet in 2010, is now up to 14. Says Bev: “It’s not that Bruce was holding it back – it’s just that more opportunities have come up.”

Matt, who’s now a co-owner of the business with Bev (who remains the majority shareholder) has his Dad’s approach to meeting customers’ needs, as Bev points out: “Well Matt keeps coming in and saying he’s buying more trucks – and I keep saying ‘no you’re not!’

“He takes no notice. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree: Bruce used to come in and say ‘I’m just going to look at something and I’m just taking Rodney from next door.’

provides both small and large fleets with up to date tyre management information enabling longer tyre life, better pre planning of tyre replacement, fleet servicing information, safer operation, and better tyre cost forecasting.

For your nearest Carters Tyre shop

0800 4 CARTERS 4

2

2

7

8

3

7

7

www.carterstyres.co.nz

TD28290

Regular TMS reports can include as much information as you require for your fleet and gives reliable historic reporting of your tyre performance.

Rodney was a home-based mechanic.

“After a while I woke up to what it meant: They would toddle off to ‘have a look at something’ and Bruce would come back by himself – and Rodney would come back driving a truck!” She laughs at the memory of it.

Bruce was big on Mitsis and so, since pretty early in the company’s history, it has been the primary brand – many of the trucks bought secondhand.

The tendency towards Mitsubishis started “just by accident I think,” says Bev: “But then we found out how reliable and good they were – then he wouldn’t have anything else. And Matt grew up servicing them, so he knows them inside and out.”

But in the last nine years there’s been a move to also running some Mercedes-Benz, pushed by Matt – because he wasn’t happy with the heavy-duty FUSO available at that time: “Nah, we had three big Shogun 430s with 6M70s (motors) – and they stopped making them. And the model that took over from that wasn’t a good truck.”

The particular Actros Mk2 they bought was “a real good deal. I bought it at an auction in Wellington. The auctioneer got his lots mixed up and dropped the hammer at 30-odd thousand (dollars) on a 70-odd thousand reserve. And the law is, as soon as the hammer goes down in an auction, the deal’s done.

“We only replaced that last year. So we ran that truck for about nine years – and we’ll probably get more when we sell it than what we paid for it. It’s up at the auction now.”

Still, Bev wasn’t impressed with it when “we got the first bill for a service….about $7000! I said ‘you sell that bloody thing!’ ” But Matt was happy with the Merc: “It’s been a good truck.” So he added a secondhand Mk3 Actros in 2018, which had just had a new crate motor installed.

And when he saw that the last two brand-new V6 Actroses in stock were for sale last year, he figured the deal being offered was too good to miss out on.

Just like Bruce would have done, he broke it to Bev gently – one truck at a time, she reckons: “He said ‘this is a good deal Mum – it’s the last of the old model and they haven’t been able to sell them for a couple of years.’

“And so we bought one and then, after we signed on the dotted line, Matthew said ‘there’s one other one in Hamilton.

We should be buying that one as well.’ So we ended up with the two new ones.”

He says it’s simply that “I’d rather stick with stuff I know.

I’ve only ever stuck with the Daimler stuff – so it’ll either be the FUSOs or Mercedes.”

So now the fleet comprises two 480-horsepower 2648 Actros 3 MP3 6x4 tractor units and a Merc 3248 8x4 truck and trailer unit. The rest are FUSOs, including the last Shogun, one Canter and a bunch of Fighters – one 6x4 and the rest 4x2s. The oldest of them are being replaced at 12 to 18-months intervals and, says Matt: “We’re leaning more towards Merc Actros and Ategos for them.”

Like his Dad before him, Matt is a hands-on, hard-working

LOW COST container handling SAFE no wire ropes YARD FRIENDLY lowest wheel loadings

Australia +61 (07) 3811 5049 New Zealand +64 (0) 21 991 287

Above: Back in the ‘90s, this Mitsi FK455 towed a forklift on a single-axle trailer, so it could unload or load anywhere

Left: In 2017 Mitzie the kitten caused a stir when she was found, trapped behind the dash of one of the company’s trucks, when it was off on a three-hour run. It took another five or six hours to get her free. She’s since become a permanent fixture around the office...but has recently met more misfortune: She suffered a broken pelvis and paralysed tail when she was hit by a car

TD27314

AUCKLAND’S CALTEX OIL DISTRIBUTORS

120 Penrose Road, Penrose Auckland & 48D Parkway Drive, Albany Oil & Filter Distribution Outlet - 48D Parkway Drive, Albany Phone for friendly service 09 5250830 Fax 09 5250841 Truck & Driver | 53

Truck-mounted Moffett Mounty forklift makes palletised farm deliveries entirely self-sufficient

boss. While he no longer gets to regularly drive trucks fulltime, he does still do a fair bit of loading and unloading trucks, at the wheel of the forklift…..rather than staying in the office.

“I’m in and out – I do still have a desk in there. We don’t really have titles, but I guess you’d call me the transport manager. I sort of keep an eye on everything.

“But then, we have our own workshop – and I do breakdowns and servicing. So I just jump between a bit of everything.

“It’s just easier than trying to book trucks into a workshop during the week. Our regular maintenance and servicing is all done on a Saturday and I also do all the CoFing on a Saturday….do the checks and everything and then take them through. If there’s any minor stuff I just do it – any major stuff, we use a workshop down the road or Truck City at Manukau look after the Mercedes. I service one Merc – the others are on maintenance contracts.”

It’s helping Matt dramatically in getting all this done that early this year “we finally decided to hire a dispatcher. It’s the first time in 36 years that there’s been a non-family member dispatching.

“Oh, it just lessens what I have to do during the day.

He’s come from Toll – he was working there for 20 years… so he’s done it before. It’s just a case of him learning all the customers and the size of the area that we cover.

“Time management skills in dispatch are critical in our justin-time supply industry. Putting our kind of freight back on rail would never work.

“The biggest challenge we face in future is rapidly growing traffic congestion between Auckland and Pukekohe, due to a population explosion....with little to no roading infrastructure west of the Southern Motorway in the pipeline.”

Matt’s sister Alana Meechan has recently returned to work in the business – helping Bev out in the office part-time.... making it, as Bev says, “a true family business.”

The company’s trucks work all around the Pukekohe region and range as far east as Maramarua, south to Meremere and down the west coast south of the Waikato Heads and north for the length of of the Awhitu Peninsula – up to the Manukau Heads. The company’s trucks are in and out of Auckland daily as well, of course – running loaded both ways.

Says Matt: “With all of the farm deliveries we do, we cover a pretty massive area.” And the trucks do occasionally 54 | Truck & Driver

venture out all around the North Island – if a regular customer “asks us to, and they’re prepared to pay what we need to be paid to run home empty. Some customers just want their load on one truck – and they want it there at a certain time.”

A lot of the regular freight comprises stock food, packaging for produce growers and poultry farmers, fertiliser, paper for the printing industry, alcohol....“and then just general freight that comes through forwarders, and our own customers.”

Like both Bev and Matt were saying, they’re happy that the work these days is spread over dozens of customers….even scores of ‘em. As Matt explains: “The smaller the job, the more money you make out of them. The bigger the job…they screw you.

“The big juicy jobs, there’s no money in them anyway. The smaller jobs are better for us. Less people are after them – they’re not as desirable to the big Mainfreights and big corporate carriers.”

The Youngs do have a few major corporates as customers – “Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) and the breweries. But I think they like us.”

One of the Merc units, for instance, “basically works out of CCA in the morning, one does stock food and booze and the other one works for two of our big freight-forwarders – brings freight down from Auckland to our depot, for our trucks to cross-dock deliver.”

The way Bev and Matt see it, Pukekohe Carriers is in the perfect position to work in with companies like CCA on their deliveries around the Puke region – simply because the area is a bit too out-of-the-way for some of the big transport operators….but also needs more supplies than a typical contractor can provide on their own.

Says Matt: “The big carriers just didn’t want to come (here) because Pukekohe is not Auckland and not Hamilton – it’s put into the ‘too hard’ basket.

“It’d be the end of the day before they’d send it (a truck) out and then it’d turn up at the supermarket after cutoff….and then have to go back.

“We’re up there (in Auckland) twice a day and then deliver to supermarkets, and we bring back quite a bit for their own trucks. We cross-dock their stuff here.”

Bev points out that the long-running major roadworks on Auckland’s Southern Motorway has added to local beverage delivery contractors’ difficulties in going to and fro’ for multiple loads daily: “Because of the roadworks…their own

Top left: A trio of Mitsi Shoguns – a 1999 FS395 and 2006 model FV and FS430s – at the depot in 2017 Above: Alcohol and other beverages comprise a good part of the company’s loads

Left: Nine-year-old Actros 3 heads out of the fullyconcreted Pukekohe Carriers depot

trucks didn’t have time in a day to come out, do a load, go back and get another load – and get out again.”

So what’s the Matt and Bev Young vision for the future?

Matt: “I don’t know. We just sort of roll with it. There is no real master plan. As jobs come along we look at it. If we want to do it, we do it.

“We’re fortunate – we’re in the position now where we don’t have to do everything that comes along. People are quite shocked if we say we don’t want a job. We had a big customer that wanted us to do so many truckloads of timber to Auckland a day….and when he said the rate, we said ‘no.’

“It wasn’t going to fit with what we do….the money wasn’t that flash either. Somebody else can do it.”

The nature of the business has, he adds, “been what it is for the last 36 years. I don’t really want to get any bigger than 10 or 12 trucks (he seems to have forgotten that the fleet’s already at 14!) – because that’s what we can comfortably run out of this depot, without having too much management.

“Right now, there’s enough work for the drivers for 10-12 hours a day – keeping them all busy. Aside from one load on a Saturday morning, the trucks don’t run on the weekend. We don’t do any seasonal work anymore.”

The Youngs are members of the National Road Carriers Association and, says Bev, “we value their support.

“Bruce had become good friends with (NRC executive officer) Steve Woodward, who had previously worked at Phoenix Freight and had often been on the receiving end of

Bruce’s advice.

“After Bruce died, Woody would come out every week for quite some time to see how we were going, which was much appreciated.”

Matt and Bev also say it’s the support of its own “longterm, loyal staff” that has kept them going: “A business is only as good as its staff,” says Bev. Pukekohe Carriers has had Teletrac Navman GPS and onboard telematics for 15 years or more – “so we know where all the trucks are.”

On the other hand, Matt concedes, “our dispatching is quite old-fashioned: Everything just gets written down. Still, working a manual system….it just works.

“We are going to go to a more automated setup, with messaging to the trucks, sign-on-glass and all that – but only because customers are saying that they want it.”

Bev doesn’t want a system with automatic billing, preferring to do it manually – even though “we’re running over 220 accounts per month – because we have such a varied delivery area, with extra charges to be added. We have jobs from five dollars a month, up to the $20,000-plus a month….” says Matt.

“And that’s where you don’t live or die by one job – which is better. If we lose one, we’ve still got another 219 to go! And you always have some dropping off and others coming in.”

He pauses for a moment: “I don’t know how these guys with all their eggs in one basket sleep at night – when you’ve got all the money tied up in one account.” T&D Truck & Driver | 55

B-TRAIN CURTAINSIDER

198,800

$

+ GST

6 WEEK DELIVERY

‘12 LOCK’ SKELETAL

99,500

$

+ GST

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

5 AXLE CURTAINSIDER

‘18 LOCK’ SKELETAL

106,250

$

118,800

$ + GST

+ GST

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

QUAD FLATDECK

106,800

$

+ GST

1400 MPA HI-TENSILE BODY

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

4 AXLE TIPPER

$

118,000

+ GST

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

Design includes: • High-tensile chassis offering reduced tare weight & increased strength.

• Structurflex curtains standard option on curtainsiders, mezzanine floor ready. Excludes mezzanine floors, hooks, trees, floor poles & load binders.

• Nationwide support from TMC’s Auckland & Christchurch workshops & authorised service agents.

Prices are for standard TMC build spec and are valid for one month from magazine publication date. Trailer images above are sample only and may include some non-standard options. Finance available, subject to approval. TMC’s standard t&c’s apply. Delivery dates quoted while stock lasts.

AUCKLAND

HAMILTON

Ron Price Sales Engineer 021 701 098 ron@tmc.kiwi

Aaron Forde Sales Engineer 027 701 1000 aaron@tmc.kiwi

Auckland 8 Oak Road, Wiri, Auckland

Truck & Driver 297x210mm Jan 2020.indd 1

Hamilton OPENING JULY 2020!

CHRISTCHURCH Paul (Skippy) Goodman Sales Consultant 021 701 110 skippy@tmc.kiwi

www.tmc.kiwi

Christchurch 56 Edmonton Rd, Hornby, Christchurch

15/01/20 3:37 PM

FEATURE

Yep, that’s Volvo Trucks boss Roger Alm standing atop the stack of four new models, in the truckmaker’s latest out-there publicity stunt

Story: Wayne Munro

A STACK OF NEW VOLVOS V

OLVO HAS JUST LAUNCHED A WHOLE HEAP of trucks. Yep, a pile of them. I mean literally – not just figuratively.

Say what?? Okay, it sounds confusing….but it’s just that the people who brought you that much-viewed video of Jean-Claude Van Damme doing the splits between two moving Volvo FMs – and many more, including a hamster steering an FMX around a quarry – have been at it again.

Yep, Volvo Trucks has come up with another attention-grabber – in keeping with its recent tradition of creating YouTube videos of spectacular publicity stunts to tease global attention for something new (remember the tightrope walker between two speeding trucks, the boss standing on an FMX dangling from a giant crane and a hang-glider towed through a tunnel by a truck?).

And because this one’s been done to promote Volvo’s biggest-ever new truck launch – with the make’s entire heavy-duty cabover range renewed – it decided to go big.

As in tall. A tower of trucks, in fact. The concept is

simple, as the video itself explains: “We are launching four new trucks….. Strong enough to carry each other…. And our president.”

That’s right: On top of a new FMX truck and trailer unit, they stacked an FH 8x4 rigid, a six-wheeler FH16 750 rigid and an FM 6x4 from the new lineup. Capped

by Volvo Trucks president Roger Alm standing on the roof of the FM – 15 metres off the ground!

And the rationale behind this bizarre promo – posted on YouTube the day before last month’s launch of the new range? The 58-tonne tower (which, by the way, does drive a short distance along a Swedish test track) shows off the new 38-tonne bogie available on the FMX and FH16 models.

See….so it all makes perfect sense!

Alm, who reckons he has a “certain respect for heights” and that he’s actually “a down to earth guy,” went along with the scary stunt dreamt up by his marketing team to mark the truckmaker’s unprecedented launch.

The four new models, he says, have “a strong focus on the driver environment, safety and productivity.

Truck & Driver | 57

3:37 PM

“We are really proud of this big forward-looking investment. Our aim is to be our customers’ best business partner, by making them even more competitive and help them attract the best drivers in an increasingly tough market.”

With trucking companies facing driver shortages globally (the shortfall is currently at 20% in Europe), Volvo Trucks says it’s “focused strongly on developing the new trucks to make them safer, more efficient and more attractive working tools for qualified drivers.”

As Alm says: “Drivers who handle their truck safely and efficiently are an invaluable asset to any transport company. Responsible driving behaviour can help reduce CO2 emissions and fuel costs, as well as helping reduce the risk of accidents, injury and unplanned downtime.

“Our new trucks will help drivers work even more safely and productively and give our customers stronger arguments when competing to attract the best drivers.”

To that end, the new FM and FMX models have a brand-new cab and many of the same instrument display functions as their FH and FH16 big brothers – and with more interior room, improved comfort and visibility.

The four models each come with a new information and communications driver interface, aimed at making it easier to maintain an overview and manage different functions – creating less stress and distraction.

The instrument display is fully digital, with a 12-inch screen that makes it easy for the driver to choose the information needed at any time. The driver can select between four different screen views, depending on the driving situation and the driver’s preference for the information displayed.

Within easy reach of the driver there’s an additional nine-inch side display available for infotainment, navigation, transport information and camera 58 | Truck & Driver

monitoring. The functions can be controlled via buttons on the steering wheel, by voice control, or via the touchscreen and display control panel.

The new Volvo FH can be specced with a new Euro 6 13-litre engine – part of an I-Save package that enables “significant” fuel and CO2 savings. According to Volvo, in long-haul operations I-Save with the D13TC engine and a package of other features “can deliver fuel savings up to 7%.”

The FH also comes with the option of the I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission for smoother gearshifting without any loss of momentum.

The FH and FH16 models have an increased frontaxle load capacity for improved productivity – backedup with improved steering angles to reduce tyre wear and improve manoeuvrability.

New 38t-rated diffs are available on the FH16 and FMX, for demanding operations.

Volvo buyers in New Zealand and Australia will be able to order the new models in the last quarter of this year – the first of the trucks to be built in Brisbane in the first quarter of next year….to likely make it onto the road here early in Q2.

Volvo Group Australia spokesperson Philippa Stewart says that the trucks will be “built for the unique, harsh Australian and NZ conditions, with intensive onsite testing ensuring they can withstand the toughest of conditions.”

New grilles readily identify the new models, particularly the FH16 and FH. In the case of the flagship FH16, it’s what Volvo terms a “waterfallthemed grille,” with the frontal styling also including new headlight panels that are repositioned outwards slightly for improved aerodynamics and updated styling.

Chief designer exterior Ismail Ovacik describes the revised FH16 exterior look as “bolder, more sophisticated and confident” – reflecting “the fact that

John Craig

Above: It’s the first time that Volvo Trucks has launched new models across its entire cabover range

SALES & SERVICE ACROSS NEW ZEALAND

TD30580

Left: The instrument cluster on each of the new models is fully digital, with a 12-inch screen. Off to the right is an additional nine-inch screen for infotainment, navigation, transport info and camera monitoring

Contact 0800 THE BULL www.roadmaster.co.nz John Blackburn 027 839 7477 john.b@roadmaster.co.nz Colin Patchell 027 241 1701 colin@roadmaster.co.nz Craig Beissel 027 242 0814 craig@roadmaster.co.nz

Above: The new FMX comes with a mix of improved driver comforts and safety, plus more productivity potential, courtesy of its uprated front and rear axles Opposite page: The new FH16, with its distinctive new frontal look, thanks to a new grille and revised lighting

this truck is more connected and smarter than ever before.”

The FH16 and FH models’ safety package includes an industry-first offering of adaptive high beam headlights – improving safety by automatically disabling selected segments of the LED high beam when the truck approaches oncoming traffic or another vehicle from behind.

The high beam is adjusted when the onboard camera and radar detects other vehicles or when the camera detects changes in the amount of light around the truck.

Safety-wise, all of the new models offer downhill cruise control, which sets a maximum speed to help prevent unwanted acceleration on descents, and adaptive cruise control (ACC) – which now works at all speeds, even down to zero km/h.

The electronically-controlled brake system (EBS) – a prerequisite for safety features such as collision warning with emergency brake and electronic stability control – is now standard. Volvo Dynamic Steering, with lane keeping assist and stability assist, is an option.

The new trucks also have a road sign recognition system displayed in the instrument display – detecting signs including overtaking restrictions, road type and speed limits.

60 | Truck & Driver

Rear visibility can be improved with the addition of a passenger side camera to provide extra vision down the side of the truck.

The FM and FMX cab interiors are up to one cubic metre bigger, “providing better comfort and more working room.” Visibility is improved, thanks to larger windows, a lowered door line and new mirrors.

The steering wheel in these models is equipped with a neck-tilt function that allows greater adjustment to the driving position.

A raised bunk in the sleeper cab creates extra storage space underneath, while the day cab version has a new 40-litre storage compartment on the back wall.

Volvo chief designer interior Carina Byström describes the new FM interior as “a mobile office built for drivers.” The model, she adds, is “the versatile workhorse of our range – agile and fit to serve its purpose of being spacious, safe and comfortable for drivers.”

The FMX, with its increased front axle rating of up to 20 tonnes and a 38t bogie, is “built for the toughest conditions and most demanding assignments,” Volvo reckons.

Says Roger Alm: “Our construction industry customers are facing ever-increasing demands to improve in areas such as sustainability, cost efficiency,

John Craig

ENGINEERED, DESIGNED, INNOVATED

TD30581

The FH16 and FH models’ safety package includes an industry-first offering of adaptive high beam headlights....

Contact 0800 THE BULL www.roadmaster.co.nz John Blackburn 027 839 7477 john.b@roadmaster.co.nz Colin Patchell 027 241 1701 colin@roadmaster.co.nz Craig Beissel 027 242 0814 craig@roadmaster.co.nz

AUXILIARY

TRUCK

MAKE THE MOST OF

PBS

S ©2020 Hendrickson USA, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks shown are owned by Hendrickson USA, L.L.C., or one of its affiliates, in one or more countries.

John Craig

Above: Like the FMX, the new FM gets a new cab, with improved visibility – thanks to a lowered door line, new rear vision mirrors and a passenger corner camera. The changes have also delivered a roomier and lighter cab....which Volvo reckons is now like a mobile office Top left: Volvo Trucks president Roger Alm was prepared to go the extra distance (or actually, the extra height!) to promote the new trucks Bottom left: The FH16 headlight panels have been moved out slightly for improved aerodynamics and looks

it easy for drivers to enter or exit, we’ve designed new anti-slip footsteps.”

Inside there’s a new traction control panel to “help the driver easily and quickly handle potentially dangerous situations – both on and off the road.”

The driver can gain more traction by engaging the diff locks, by turning a knob – viewing the traction status on the instrument display at the same time.

The 38t bogie allows a gross combination weight (GCW) rating of up to 150t. An updated front air suspension allows for front axle loads of up to 10t for a single axle, 20t for a twin-steer. T&D

CUTAINSIDERS, SOLIDSIDERS, SKELETAL, PLATFORM, EJECTOR BODIES

TD30582

safety and productivity.

“With the launch of the new Volvo FMX, we are proving our commitment to supporting these customers by creating robust trucks and innovative services to assist in making their operations easier, safer and more profitable.”

The new FMX is built on an entirely new cab platform – designed to deliver “a superior combination of agility and durability,” says Ismail Ovacik.

“The completely new cab includes a front section with easily replaceable, sturdy parts, headlamp protectors and new V-shaped LED headlamps. To make

Contact 0800 THE BULL www.roadmaster.co.nz John Blackburn 027 839 7477 john.b@roadmaster.co.nz Colin Patchell 027 241 1701 colin@roadmaster.co.nz Craig Beissel 027 242 0814 craig@roadmaster.co.nz

We know how valuable your Mack is and how important it is for it to be on the road.

Truckstops is the authorised after sales network for Mack Trucks so our comprehensive C-Service meets manufacturers recommendations, is carried out by Mack trained technicians, fitting only genuine parts – all to give your Mack a complete refresh.

While you’re at it why not grab yourself a free Mack Chilly Bin to help you get refreshed?!

Jason Biddulph put out a roadside grass fire, singlehanded

Story Wayne Munro

A

FONTERRA TANKER DRIVER WHO WAS HAILED A HERO for quickly putting out a roadside grass fire in the Waikato, has now signed up as a volunteer fireman!

Jason Biddulph made the national news last November when he pulled up in his milktanker and singlehandedly doused a blaze on the outskirts of Huntly.

A woman who’d come across the fire moments before Jason arrived on the scene, went public to thank him for his quickthinking action.

Jasmine Brodie told 1 News Now that she’d pulled over, turned on the hazard lights on her car and stood on the road to warn other motorists, because the smoke was so thick “you couldn’t see to drive through it at some points.”

As she phoned the fire brigade, Jason arrived in his Volvo tanker: “I have never seen someone act so quickly!” she told 1 News Now: “He was out of the truck in seconds, got his own extinguisher out of the back and ran to the fire.”

She shot video on her phone of him emptying the truck’s fire extinguisher on the blaze, then running back to his truck and returning with the floor mats to continue beating the flames out.

And she told 1 News Now: “Huge respect for Jason….and the fire brigade. Fonterra – you should be proud of drivers like this one, helping out a small community.”

The 49-year-old Jason’s response was understated: “All in a day’s work. Thanks guys.”

When the Huntly Volunteer Fire Brigade arrived on the scene, they doused the burnt grass to make sure it didn’t reignite, and Jason – who lives in the north Waikato township – recognised a few of them and “had a chat” before heading off to Te Rapa with his load of milk.

“Yeah, no drama,” he reckons: “Just carried on. Smelt of smoke, as you would…

“I still had another load to go….had to go back to Te Rapa, unload, get a new fire extinguisher and get back out on the road again.”

Truck & Driver | 65

Above left: Jason has been driving Fonterra milktankers for the past seven years Above right: Jockey turned truckie Jason Biddulph won almost 50 races, including this 1995 steeplechase win in Auckland on Skateski

He was surprised when the video of his firefighting efforts made it onto 1 News Now, with him named as a “hero truckie.”

And he’s been surprised again since, when a member of the Huntly fire brigade turned up at his home, saying his fireman mates who’d attended the fire that day were sufficiently impressed to suggest he should be recruited.

“They thought I’d be a good asset to their team – so I went along and met the fire chief and things like that.” And yes, he will be joining up as a volunteer – once he’s recovered from an arm injury that has him laid-up currently.

Volunteering for the fire brigade had never occurred to him, he says: “It’s one of those things, you know – you don’t mind giving back, but sometimes you just need that final push to say ‘oh yeah, that’d be good – we’ll go and do that.’ ” Now he’s become our latest Castrol Truck Driver Hero – recognising drivers who have contributed significantly to the safety of others while working, or in some other way have gone “over and above” the call of duty for their employer or the industry as a whole.

Jason dismisses the “hero” tag: “I would like to think that anyone would do it….just did what any one of our team would do – help out where help is needed.

“Oh, I think it’s just instinct eh – we’ve all got that in us. Especially in the transport industry – you know, we’re on the road – we see all sorts of things happening. We also get the blame for a lot of stuff that’s not our fault!

“We’re trained for this kind of thing: We hope we never need it, but this time the training came in handy. When I saw the fire, instinct just kicked-in.”

It happens often among the Fonterra driving force: Other members of his Te Rapa driver team would have similar stories to tell, he says – of “helping change tyres for tourists, stopping at accidents, teaching kids about road safety…. It’s all in the day’s work for us.”

But he does confess that, on reflection later, he was proud that his reactions were up to scrutiny: “When something like that comes along, you sort of pat yourself on the back and go – ‘gee, that wasn’t a bad job was it. Well done.’ ” He had seen the smoke from a distance – and thought it was probably

66 | Truck & Driver

someone doing burnouts: “So we made our way there quietly.”

But when he crested a brow and saw the flames already covering around 50 metres, he knew quick action was required.

There are, he says, houses and a marae – “and I knew there were kids there” – only only a few hundred metres away, separated from the fire by some scrub and bushland.

That, he figured, “could have gone up quite easily. So it could have got quite nasty.”

The truck’s extinguisher put much of the fire out, but when that ran out, “I run back to the truck and thought, ‘oh well, the next-best thing’s probably the floor mats’…so we grabbed that and carried on!”

Jason’s been driving for Fonterra, based at Te Rapa, for seven years – having previously worked for six years at Te Kauwhata Transport as a driver, dispatcher and stores manager.

He’d driven “more or less off and on” all his working life, which saw him start out at 16 as a jockey. He soon also “ended up driving horse floats and stuff like that.”

In an 11-year career as a jockey all around New Zealand, he “had a bit of success. You know, I wasn’t your everyday hero.”

How many winners did he ride? “Oh mate, now you’re asking a question. Oh would have been, because I only ever rode over fences…. about 48, 49.”

At the end of his racing career he spent six years working in the horse racing industry in Japan: “I went over to manage a few training farms over there” – teaching Japanese jockeys.

He even managed to mix his love of truck driving and horse racing: “I actually drove a few trucks over there in the horse industry. Oh it was awesome mate – best time of my life really….apart from getting married and having kids.”

His manager at Fonterra, Bert Simpson, says Jason’s actions were “what I would have expected from him: He is a very experienced driver who has been a buddy driver for some of our new drivers…and is always willing to help others when he can with advice or practical issues.”

As a Castrol Truck Driver Hero, Jason receives a $500 prezzy card and a merchandise pack from Castrol – and is now a finalist in the 2019/2020 Castrol Truck Driver Hero Award....which carries a $3500 travel voucher for the winner. T&D

g

re kids fire by

have got

ran hing’s

Trailers Painted and Manufactured by Domett Truck & Trailers

THE TOTAL FLEET SOLUTION Fleetcare Commercial Refinish by Resene TM

The Fleetcare™ network provides fleet owners with a nationwide network of independent commercial vehicle paint specialists. This is to ensure colour accuracy and brand repeatability. The Fleetcare™ network is backed by Resene and Axalta Coating Systems, providing industry leading processes, quality control and life time warranties*

ears as a

The total fleet solution you can trust.

saw orse

WHANGAREI Comm-Fleet Northland Ltd 221 Port Rd, Port Whangarei 09-430 0820

ROTORUA Lakeside Paint and Panel Ltd 62C Ngongotaha Rd. Rotorua 07-357 5675

AUCKLAND CFX Truck Painting & Signage 27G Cain Park, Cain Rd, Penrose 09-634 0034

MATAMATA Matamata Car Painters Ltd 13 Garland St, 07-888 6162

d a bit

ces….

e horse rms over

ing: “I was arried

e “what who has illing to

d and a 2020 cher for

MT MAUNGANUI Nationwide Transport Refinishers 8 Aerodrome Rd 07-572 8010

OTOROHANGA Spray & Bake Commercial Specialists Ltd 21 Phillips Ave 07-873 8254

TAURANGA Domett Truck & Trailers OEM Trailer Manufacturer Taurikura Dr, Tauriko 07-575 5139

NEW PLYMOUTH Steven Sole Customs Ltd 182 Connett Rd East Bell Block 06-755 2115

LEVIN Marty’s Panel & Paint Ltd 27 Coventry St, 06-368 8276 HASTINGS Henderson Road Panel and Paint 110 Henderson Rd, Woolwich, Hastings 06-879 4630 ASHBURTON Bus & Truck Bodyworks Ltd 17 Range St. Ashburton 03-307 0378 TIMARU Elite Transport Refinishers Ltd 207 Hilton Hwy Washdyke 03-688 2660

More information: 0508 FLEETCARE (53 3822) | rali.co.nz/fleetcare

Automotive & Light Industrial

* Warranty is subject to the Fleetcare lifetime performance warranty terms and conditions at time of paint refinishing.

SCHMITZ CARGOBULL REFRIGERATED TRAILERS

• • • • • • •

FERROPLAST patented thermal panels Technology used in 90% of European refrigerated trailers NZ’s highest insulation retention (K-value) Floors rated at 7200kgs per axle loading Smaller fridge units required delivering lower running costs FERROPLAST steel skinned bodies impervious to water retention Damaged bodies easily repaired to full performance levels

Coolpak Coolstores Ltd South Island: 14.8m Q1 Reefer with Schmitz Cooling Unit

AUCKLAND BRANCH AND HEAD OFFICE 21 Hobill Ave, Manukau, Auckland, Phone +64 9 267 3679

FEILDING MANUFACTURING PLANT

10 Mahinui Street, Feilding, New Zealand, Telephone +64 6 323 4299 TD30541

www.fruehauf.co.nz

FEATURE

RS

Many wage earners believe they’re worth $4 an hour more than they’re currently being paid....but will stick around for an extra $2 an hour

SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO? A

N EXTRA $2 AN HOUR COULD MAKE ALL THE difference between New Zealand workers staying with their current employers or leaving….

That’s even though they think that they’re worth $4 more per hour than they’re currently paid!

These are among the findings of a study of NZ industrial and trades wages released in February by temporary and permanent staff supplier OneStaff.

The What’s My Rate? Industrial and Trades Wage Report 2020 provides an insight from over 7800 Kiwi wage-earners, into their attitudes, experiences and remuneration.

The report is broken down into four sectors: Manufacturing, production and logistics (including road transport); commercial and hospitality; trades and services; construction and infrastructure (takingin articulated dumptruck, Class 2, 4 and 5 drivers and pilots); and engineering.

The study finds that, despite Statistics NZ reporting that the labour cost index salary and wage rates recently experienced the largest increase since June 2009 – rising 2.6% in the year to the December 2019 quarter – many workers “do not feel that their wage is fair for their role.”

Interestingly, the study found that “the pay gap between those most likely and least likely to resign was around $2 per hour.”

Across all four sectors, not a single median wage was considered fair – in fact, the median “fair” rate, according to respondents, was $28 per hour. That’s $4 higher than the actual median.

Again across all sectors, respondents stated it would cost $5 an hour more than their current rate to lure them to a new role.

Overall, they rated their feelings of pay satisfaction as 2.68 out of 5.

OneStaff CEO Jonathan Ives says of the study: “Our data quantifies the business mantra that it’s cheaper to retain staff than to recruit staff. Respondents have indicated that businesses need to increase wages by around $2 per hour to retain them, versus the $5 per hour that would let another employer attract them.

“It’s a tight job market for many industries, so it’s important for businesses to understand what factors affect each employee’s satisfaction at work and what it takes to retain staff.”

The study found that, contrary to popular belief, earning higher-level tertiary qualifications does not necessarily equate to higher pay in the industrial and trades sectors. The tenure of workers could be affecting this finding, as the report found a distinct correlation between working for longer at a company and earning more.

Truck & Driver | 69

Drivers in the logistics sector last year saw their pay rates increase by $1 or $2 an hour

Thus, respondents with a Master degree, actually earned the least – at $22 an hour – while those with a national certificate qualification earned the most….at $27 an hour.

Respondents with a High School Certificate earned $24 an hour.

Pay rates rise with tenure, but plateau after six to 10 years.

Says Ives: “This finding will be music to the ears of many industry associations who have been working hard to attract school leavers and overcome stereotypes around vocational careers.

“Those who have achieved diplomas and national certificates, paired with on-the-job training, are likely to have more tenure in a business at a younger age when compared with, for example, a graduate with a Master’s degree.

“The report is clear that people wanting career growth in a vocational job should focus on achieving job-specific certification.”

According to the report, “an overtime culture is rife throughout the sectors surveyed. The degree to which Kiwis are working over their contractual hours is significant, particularly as only around one-third of those working overtime are compensated.”

The study showed that 59% of respondents said they work either one or more hours of overtime each month, while 29% work one to 10 hours, 25% work 10-40 hours and 4% work 40+ hours overtime per month.

Of those who do work overtime, 66% say they’re not compensated for their extra labour.

Says Ives: “The findings around overtime are quite worrying because, in health and safety-sensitive industries, overtime can potentially be dangerous. Fatigued workers 70 | Truck & Driver

www.kingbars.com.au

are more likely to make mistakes with machinery, equipment and vehicles, so any overtime in these industries does need to be addressed and properly managed.”

He urges employers to “strongly consider whether their culture of overtime is healthy for workers or potentially exploitative, given that many employees are either being pushed or are pushing themselves far beyond what should be considered acceptable.”

The study found that, in the manufacturing, production and logistics sector, workers’ median pay increased by $1 an hour last year – “but, at just $23 per hour, remains the second-lowest rate.

“Class 5 truck and trailer drivers, supervisors/team leaders and paint shop/coating applicators typically earn the most ($26 p/h), with stocktakers and runner/drivers’ mates earning the least ($19 p/h).”

Class 2 drivers, improving from $20 to $22 an hour, clocked-up a 10% improvement from the previous year’s hourly rate – with their C4 colleagues up 4.55% from $22 to $23, and C5 drivers’ rate going up from $24 to $26 an hour (an 8.33% increase).

There’s a strong showing of women in this category, up around 5% from 2019, although they still represent a minority of just 17.82%.

This sector also has gone from having one of the lowest to the third-largest gender pay gap, at $4 an hour in favour of men – a $3 increase on last year.

Respondents in this sector stated that a fair rate for their work was $26 p/h, although women said they felt $28 was fair.

In the construction and infrastructure sector, C2 drivers were on the lowest driver rates ($22, up from $20), with C4 drivers earning $23 (up from $22), articulated dumptruck drivers at $24 (was $22) and C5 drivers on $25 (up from $24). Pilot vehicle drivers’ rates jumped from $23.50 to $30 (which, by the way, was the same 2019

rate as diesel mechanics).

In 2020, younger people still make up the majority (52%) of workers in the manufacturing, production and logistics sector, although the number of Baby Boomers has dropped. Last year this sector had the highest proportion of people in this age group, but now it has the largest showing of Gen Xers instead (36.97%).

Workers in the sector have a collective average of seven years’ experience. Their happiness metrics were middling, “with the exception of feelings of satisfaction and value – where they ranked lowest and joint-lowest respectively.”

Despite that they only rated the likelihood that they’d consider new employment at 3.73 out of five, prompting OneStaff to conclude that, “while respondents in this sector are certainly not as happy as they could be (indeed, their results dropped slightly from 2019), this has not driven any noticeable increase in their likelihood of seeking new employment – giving employers a second chance to take action.

“So, what do they value in a job? Much the same as the other sectors: A great team, higher pay and career progression.”

According to the report, a majority (62%) of workers in the sector prefer a manager who leads by example, and who’s also fair/evenhanded (35.69%) and supportive (32.85%).

“Data on overtime is, like the other sectors, not positive.

However, results here are better than in most other categories – 61.95% of respondents report working overtime each month, which is the second-lowest rate in the report….but only one third are paid for their time.

“Supportive managers looking to improve their workers’ feelings of satisfaction and value could look to overtime as a place to start – paying a greater number of employees for their extra hours, especially the 17.93% who work 20+ extra hours per month.” T&D

• Truck cover from $4,220 +GST • Trailer cover from $4,650 +GST Gary Andrews – NZ Tarping Systems Ltd 0800 TARPING (827 746) E: gary@nztarpingsystems.co.nz www.nztarpingsystems.co.nz TD26599

TD30387

• Eliminates health & safety risk • Custom manufactured to suit • High quality mesh or PVC • Super smooth twin cable operation

Truck & Driver | 71

TRUCKS MADE FOR NEW ZEALAND. DIY MATE. Don’t just imagine your dream truck, build it. The Scania Configurator is a first for New Zealand and allows you to create the perfect truck for any job you want, and any conditions you face.

And let’s face it, here in New Zealand that’s many, so there are over 80,000 permutations available.

Design your dream truck at scania.co.nz/configure-my-truck

MADE FOR NEW ZEALAND

SP1969 DIY Mate_FP_NZTruck&Driver_v3-ALT.indd 1

15/11/19 3:43 PM

National Road Carriers

Coronavirus highlights road transport industry’s key role

By David Aitken, CEO of National Road Carriers Association

T

HE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK HAS highlighted the key role trucks and the road transport industry play for all New Zealanders as producers and consumers.

China’s shutdowns to control coronavirus have impacted NZ trucking companies that carry exports like logs and meat to ports, and Chinese imports to NZ warehouses and retailers.

All goods sold in NZ are delivered by truck at some point on its journey to the consumer – and usually there are multiple truck trips.

By our reckoning it takes 30 truck deliveries to make a ham, cheese and tomato sandwich (see the accompanying infographic). This simple example illustrates that any factor – such as coronavirus – that substantially affects NZ industries, will effect road transport and vice-versa.

If tourism is down, this effects the trips to service this sector, including restaurants and hotels. If agriculture is down, this effects road transport to ports from farms and to the providers of all the supplies farms need for primary produce.

The coronavirus has meant many Chinese factories are closed and therefore not taking goods, nor producing goods.

A number of forestry operations stopped logging because China was not receiving logs and meatworks reduced kills for the China market.

There are also limited goods coming out of China, so the number of containers with goods destined for NZ shop shelves is down.

All these factors reduce the number of road transport movements. Our concern is that the economic downturn caused by coronavirus does not have a lasting effect on NZ’s road transport companies.

We are advising our members to do all they can to keep their

David Aitken

company infrastructure in place.

There are a number of steps trucking companies can consider to manage the situation and soften the blow, including:

• Ask staff if they are willing to use leave • Reduce hours down to four days, as some have already • Use the time to carry out vehicle maintenance • If struggling or worried, talk to partners, friends, other operators or National Road Carriers • Talk to their banks so they know what’s happening and can assist with finances The coronavirus outbreak has raised awareness of the need for personal hygiene measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

We have sent all National Road Carriers members a two-page coronavirus advisory circular from our health and safety partner Safe Business Solutions. The circular provides guidance on preventive health practices, business planning and continuity in the unlikely event of a widespread outbreak in NZ. Safe Business Solutions points out that an outbreak in NZ means businesses need to prepare for: • Protecting workers and reducing the spread of the virus in the workplace • High numbers of workers away due to illness or caring for dependents • National and international travel restrictions • Restrictions on public gatherings • Closure of schools • Disruptions of supply to essential goods and services • Alternative work practices workplace – for example social distancing measures, remote working capability We need trucking companies to come through this disease outbreak in the best shape possible so they can resume their businesses when we return to normal, and continue the vital role they play for all NZers. T&D Truck & Driver | 73

3:43 PM

TOTAL RUBIA WORKS 4000 RANGE √ Engine oil range for the toughest loads √ Meeting the latest API CK-4 specification

totaloilsolutions.co.nz

Oil_NZ_Q&M_AD_ƒa.indd 1

29/04/2019 4:12:00 PM

4:12:00 PM

Road Transport Association NZ

Fortunately, as evidenced in the wake of the Christchurch earthquakes, most people in the transport industry have a level-headed, keep-calm-and-carry-on approach to emergencies....like that being created by the coronavirus

T

HE OUTBREAK OF THE DEADLY CORONAVIRUS, COVID-19, has caused markets to nosedive and wreaked travel chaos around the world.

As at the beginning of March, the virus has infected more than 90,000 and killed more than 3000, mostly in China. Upwards of 50 countries, including New Zealand, have recorded cases.

The virus has disrupted global supply chains, sending ripple effects through the whole economy. Since China is NZ’s largest trading partner, both imports and exports have taken a hit, so it’s a double whammy. Other countries also have restrictions in place.

At least 1500 forestry workers have been laid off. According to the Road Transport Forum (RTF), major ports reported a 20% drop in volume in February, freight forwarders predicted a 40% drop in business, and livestock transporters were down 10-20% across the country.

For the road transport industry, two main questions arise: How can the impact on businesses be mitigated; and how should individuals respond?

If you remember Dad’s Army on TV, Corporal Jones’s catchphrase springs to mind: “Don’t panic!” It’s best to ignore Private Fraser, who wailed: “We’re doomed!”

Health officials say it’s not the apocalypse. Still, people DO panic.

Shoppers who rushed to empty supermarkets as soon as NZ’s first coronavirus case became known were not behaving logically or rationally.

Neither was the presumably well-intentioned logging truck driver who wanted to organise a mass truck protest outside Parliament. To what end? Such a protest would have only caused more disruption and alienated the public, as RTANZ senior executive Simon Carson made clear.

At the same time, nobody can afford to be complacent. In the United States, President Trump said the reaction to the coronavirus was a hoax by the Democrats, intended to harm him politically. Conservative pundit Rush Limbaugh agreed and said the coronavirus is “the common cold, folks.” It isn’t.

NZ Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki blamed “satanic airborne demons” and people “drinking bat’s blood.” (In fact, the virus may have originated in bats and then infected pangolins – endangered scaly anteaters – which were sold in a market in Wuhan, where the outbreak started.)

By Road Transport Association NZ communications manager David Killick People who have contracted coronavirus have reported symptoms ranging from mild illness to weeks of misery and “hell on earth.”

Let’s be clear: You don’t want it! And it won’t disappear straight away – epidemiologists say that the virus will stick around until people have built up immunity. A vaccine could be a year or more away. The virus might mutate or become endemic.

Fortunately, most people in the road transport industry are known for their level-headed approach: “Keep calm and carry on” is the best – and really the only – sensible strategy.

Whenever any kind of major disaster breaks out (and in Christchurch we remember the earthquakes only too well) it is truck drivers who respond, unselfishly and immediately, and ensure supplies get through. They will do so again. It’s worth reinforcing: Markets won’t collapse, business won’t stop, and the economy will bounce back.

It is essential, however, that road transport companies have policies in place to cope should Covid-19 spread further and affect them directly. For example, how much sick leave can employees take? What backup plans are there if employees contract the virus?

If they are laid off, do they have to have a stand-down period before they qualify for a benefit? RTF CEO Nick Leggett said the initial government response was inadequate.

Expect to hear more details on plans and policies and advice from RTF and RTANZ in coming weeks.

As a first step, however, everyone should take precautions, such as practising good hygiene and thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water and avoiding touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. The virus can linger on surfaces. Wearing face masks won’t make any difference unless you are in close contact with people who are spluttering and coughing.

And if you do think you might have the virus, don’t rush to see your GP and risk infecting others. If you develop symptoms including fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing, call Healthline on freephone 0800 358 5453. T&D Truck & Driver | 75

K&L Distributors BOP LTD K & L Distributors BOP Ltd

Auckland Oil Shop

K & L Distributors Ltd is a locally owned and operated company run by Ken and Linda Rowe, who for the last 28 years have been providing lubricant solutions to the Waikato, King country. They have now been covering the Western Bay Of Plenty, Matamata and the Coromandel Peninsula for six years.

We pride ourselves in exceeding our customer’s expectations in terms of service, delivery and a premium range of products.

Westland Engineering Supplies 03-768 5720

So call in and see the team, who look forward to offering you a tailored and profitable Lubricant and Fuel solution for your business.

TD30535

K&L Distributors BOP Ltd 2 Curly McLeod Way, Mount Maunganui.

Ph: 07 574 3001 Email: tauranga@kandldistributors.co.nz

Recently

Registered

www.trt.co.nz

OP Ltd

What’s thought to be Tokoroa log truck operator Alan Forbes Transport’s 68th new Kenworth has gone to work – the first of two identical H units.

The K200 2.3 flat-roof sleeper, which is driven by Tevin Taylor-Richardson, has a 550-578hp Cummins X15 engine, an 18-speed Roadranger transmission and Meritor 46-160 rear axles on Airglide 460 suspension.

Two months…. two lows N

TD30535

EW ZEALAND’S NEW HEAVY TRUCK market continued to slow in February – with sales down for the second month in a row.

The 314 new truck registrations for the month – in the overall market (trucks with a maximum GVM of 4.5 tonnes and above) – was 75 down on the same month last year (which, granted, did set an alltime February best).

And that, in turn, saw the 698 registrations total for the

first two months of 2020 13.29% behind 2019’s 805 at the same point.

NZ Transport Agency registration statistics show that the heavy trailer market continued to be pretty similar to the start of 2019 – the 219 registrations for the first two months of 2020 just one ahead of last year’s total at the same point.

In the overall 4.5t-maximum GVM truck market, Truck & Driver | 77

Recently

Registered

Isuzu – with 162 YTD and 83 for February – continued a positive start to 2020, claiming a 23.2% market share.

FUSO (115/59) was firmly in the No. 2 spot, followed

by Hino (90/38) and Volvo (52/14).

Scania (48/25) remained in fifth position, ahead of Iveco (40/19), which overtook Kenworth (37/15). UD (32/17) also took one position at the cost of MercedesBenz (31/10), while DAF (18/7) rounded out the top 10.

In the 3.5-4.5t GVM crossover segment, Fiat (44/18) consolidated its lead, ahead of Mercedes-Benz (14/7) and Chevrolet (7/2).

In the 4.5-7.5t segment, FUSO (42/25) edged ahead of January co-leader Isuzu (40/23), with Iveco (20/11) retaining third. Hino (16/7) stayed fourth, ahead of Mercedes-Benz (8/2).

In the 7.5-15t class, Isuzu (71/38) continued to open up a huge lead – to the extent that its registrations for the first two months were more than the combined sales for the other seven makes in the class.

The also-rans were FUSO (31/14), Hino (25/11), Iveco (6/3), Foton (2/0), UD (2/1), Mercedes-Benz (1/1) and MAN (1/1).

In the 15-20.5t GVM category, Hino (16/6) led clearly at the end of February, ahead of UD (10/6), FUSO (9/2) and Isuzu (5/1).

www.trt.co.nz

In the tiny 20.5-23t division, Hino (4/3) retained the No. 1 spot, followed by FUSO (2/1) and Freightliner (1/0).

While Volvo’s great start to the year in the 23t-max GVM premier division slowed in February, its 14 registrations for the month were still enough to see it retain the lead, with 52 sales. Isuzu (46/21) held onto second place, while Scania (43/21) went ahead of Kenworth (37/15) for third.

FUSO (31/17) overtook Hino (29/11) for fifth, while Mercedes-Benz (20/7) held seventh – joined now by UD (20/10), which was up from ninth, having gone ahead of DAF (17/7). Iveco (12/4) went from 11th to 10th-equal with MAN (12/8), which was up from 14th. Sinotruk (11/2) slipped from 10th to 12th-equal with Mack (11/4).

In the heavy trailer market, No. 1 Patchell (31/11) retained a clear lead, ahead of Fruehauf (22/9). MTE (21/11) moved up a place, into third, at the expense of Roadmaster (18/8).

TMC (13/9) jumped up from eighth to fifth, while Domett (11/5) dropped from fifth-equal to sixth and TES (10/4) dropped two spots, to seventh. Transport Trailers (8/5) gained a spot for eighth, Transfleet (7/2) dropped two, to ninth and Freighter (5/2) and Tidd (5/4) shared 10th place. T&D

With a Bigfoot onboard With a you’ll Bigfoot monster any onboard you’ll surface

monster any surface Make light work of any surface using the OptiTraction footprint with a Bigfoot Central

TM

Make light work of any surface using the OptiTraction footprint with a Bigfoot Central

Features of the Bigfoot Central Inflation Tyre System ●

Designed and tested in some of the worlds harshest conditions

●

Easy to use in-cab control unit in safety features prevent operating outside safe emlimits for selected tyre pressure ● Precision manufactured in New Zealand using only ipsu Lore ● Full after sales service and parts network m ● Full manufacturers warranty

TD30577

●

●Lor Built

T. 07 347 7066 / info@bigfoot.co.nz

78 | Truck & Driver

The brain behind the Bigfoot system is the Bigfoot OptiTraction control module. and makes monitoring and adjusting tyre pressures simple. The display also provides visual and audible alarms.

www.bigfoot.co.nz

Recently

Registered

www.trt.co.nz

Porirua-based Bryce O’Sullivan Contracting (BOSCO) has put these two new DAF CF85-FAT 6x4 tippers to work around the lower North Island on its civil earthworks, construction and roading jobs. They have 510hp PACCAR MX engines, 18-speed Roadranger manual gearboxes and Meritor RT46-160GP diffs on Airglide 400 suspension.

B $7 UY N LIM 50 O ITE +G W DS S T T

INTRODUCING PANASONIC’S NEW FZ-L1.

OC K

A lightweight rugged Android tablet ideal for edge computing and customer-facing mobile workers that need a versatile and cost-effective device. With its 7 inch display and optional barcode reader, it is suitable for a wide range of roles in industries such as retail and hospitality, manufacturing, transportation and logistics. · · · · · ·

Android™ 8.1 7” HD (1280 x 720) enterprise display with Glove & Rain modes 2 GB RAM and 16GB flash storage Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ CPU Optional 4G Data capability Tested to MIL-STD-810G

TD30584

0800 868 442

toughbook@nz.panasonic.com

· · · · · ·

1.5 meter drop resistance IP67 rated User replaceable battery with warm swap function Full work shift battery life Enterprise level security and manageability (COMPASS) 3 years standard warranty

BUILT FOR INDUSTRY

Recently

Registered

www.trt.co.nz

Waste is transported by this new Aucklandbased nine-axle HPMV International R8-9870 truck and trailer unit which has recently gone on the road for Green Gorilla. Tawia Putere drives the truck, which has a 600hp Cummins X15 engine, an Eaton Ultra Shift Plus AMT and Meritor RT46-160GP diffs. It has a Transfleet waste bin and pulls a matching five-axle trailer.

4501kg-max GVM

Brand ISUZU FUSO HINO VOLVO SCANIA IVECO KENWORTH UD MERCEDES-BENZ DAF MAN SINOTRUK MACK FREIGHTLINER FOTON INTERNATIONAL PEUGEOT HYUNDAI FIAT WESTERN STAR RAM OTHER Total

2020 Vol % 162 23.2 115 16.5 90 12.9 52 7.4 48 6.9 40 5.7 37 5.3 32 4.6 31 4.4 18 2.6 13 1.9 12 1.7 11 1.6 10 1.4 10 1.4 4 0.6 3 0.4 3 0.4 3 0.4 2 0.3 1 0.1 1 0.1 698 100.00

February Vol % 83 26.4 59 18.8 38 12.1 14 4.5 25 8.0 19 6.1 15 4.8 17 5.4 10 3.2 7 2.2 9 2.9 3 1.0 4 1.3 2 0.6 2 0.6 3 1.0 0 0.0 1 0.3 1 0.3 0 0.0 1 0.3 1 0.3 314 100.00

3501-4500kg GVM

Brand FIAT MERCEDES-BENZ CHEVROLET RENAULT FORD PEUGEOT IVECO LDV Total

Vol 44 14 7 7 6 4 3 1 86

2020 % 51.2 16.3 8.1 8.1 7.0 4.7 3.5 1.2 100.00

February Vol % 18 48.6 7 18.9 2 5.4 2 5.4 3 8.1 2 5.4 2 5.4 1 2.7 37 100.00

4501-7500kg GVM

Brand FUSO ISUZU IVECO HINO MERCEDES-BENZ FOTON PEUGEOT HYUNDAI FIAT RAM Total 80 | Truck & Driver

Vol 42 40 20 16 8 8 3 3 3 1 144

2020 % 29.2 27.8 13.9 11.1 5.6 5.6 2.1 2.1 2.1 0.7 100.00

February Vol % 25 34.2 23 31.5 11 15.1 7 9.6 2 2.7 2 2.7 0 0.0 1 1.4 1 1.4 1 1.4 73 100.00

While Volvo’s great start to the year in the 23t-max GVM premier division slowed in February, its 14 registrations for the month were still enough to see it retain the lead....

23,001kg-max GVM

Brand VOLVO ISUZU SCANIA KENWORTH FUSO HINO MERCEDES-BENZ UD DAF IVECO MAN SINOTRUK MACK FREIGHTLINER INTERNATIONAL WESTERN STAR Total

Vol 52 46 43 37 31 29 20 20 17 12 12 11 11 9 4 2 356

2020 % 14.6 12.9 12.1 10.4 8.7 8.1 5.6 5.6 4.8 3.4 3.4 3.1 3.1 2.5 1.1 0.6 100.00

February Vol % 14 9.6 21 14.4 21 14.4 15 10.3 17 11.6 11 7.5 7 4.8 10 6.8 7 4.8 4 2.7 8 5.5 2 1.4 4 2.7 2 1.4 3 2.1 0 0.0 146 100.00

7501-15,000kg GVM

Brand ISUZU FUSO HINO IVECO FOTON UD MERCEDES-BENZ MAN OTHER Total

Vol 71 31 25 6 2 2 1 1 1 140

2020 % 50.7 22.1 17.9 4.3 1.4 1.4 0.7 0.7 0.7 100.00

February Vol % 38 54.3 14 20.0 11 15.7 3 4.3 0 0.0 1 1.4 1 1.4 1 1.4 1 1.4 70 100.00

15,001-20,500kg GVM

Brand HINO UD FUSO ISUZU SCANIA MERCEDES-BENZ IVECO DAF SINOTRUK Total

Vol 16 10 9 5 5 2 2 1 1 51

2020 % 31.4 19.6 17.6 9.8 9.8 3.9 3.9 2.0 2.0 100.00

February Vol % 6 28.6 6 28.6 2 9.5 1 4.8 4 19.0 0 0.0 1 4.8 0 0.0 1 4.8 21 100.00

20,501-23,000kg GVM

Brand HINO FUSO FREIGHTLINER Total

Vol 4 2 1 7

2020 % 57.1 28.6 14.3 100.00

February Vol % 3 75.0 1 25.0 0 0.0 4 100.00

Trailers

2020 Brand Vol % 31 14.2 PATCHELL FRUEHAUF 22 10.0 MTE 21 9.6 ROADMASTER 18 8.2 TMC 13 5.9 DOMETT 11 5.0 10 4.6 TES TRANSPORT TRAILERS 8 3.7 7 3.2 TRANSFLEET FREIGHTER 5 2.3 TIDD 5 2.3 EVANS 4 1.8 4 1.8 MD ENGINEERING HAMMAR 3 1.4 MAKARANUI 3 1.4 3 1.4 MAXICUBE JACKSON 3 1.4 MILLS-TUI 3 1.4 COWAN 3 1.4 CWS 3 1.4 HTS 2 0.9 KRAFT 2 0.9 PTE 2 0.9 2 0.9 LOWES FELDBINDER 2 0.9 WHITE 2 0.9 MTC 2 0.9 KOROMIKO 1 0.5 SEC 1 0.5 OTHER 23 10.5 Total 219 100.00

February Vol % 11 10.9 9 8.9 11 10.9 8 7.9 9 8.9 5 5.0 4 4.0 5 5.0 2 2.0 2 2.0 4 4.0 1 1.0 4 4.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 1 1.0 2 2.0 2 2.0 2 2.0 1 1.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 1 1.0 0 0.0 1 1.0 2 2.0 0 0.0 1 1.0 13 12.9 101 100.00

Recently

Registered

www.trt.co.nz

Aztec contractor GL New Haulage has put this new Volvo FH700 8x4 logger to work out of Te Kuiti. It has straight front axles and B-Ride spring suspension for extra ground clearance and is fitted with a hydraulic retarder and Koromiko logging gear...and pulls a matching five-axle trailer.

Paraparaumu Beach operator Coastal Digger Services has put this new DAF CF85-FAT 6x4 tipper to work on its civil construction, earthmoving and roading jobs around the lower North Island. It has a 510hp PACCAR MX engine, an 18-speed Roadranger manual gearbox, Meritor RT46-160GP diffs on Airglide 400 suspension and a T&G-built Hardox steel body.

Pan Pac contractor Alpine Transport has put this eight-axle Kenworth T659 HPMV logging unit to work in Hawke’s Bay, the Wairarapa and elsewhere in the lower North Island. Co-owner Sam Holschier drives the unit, which has a 612hp Cummins X15 engine, an 18-speed Roadranger manual transmission and Meritor RT46-160GP diffs on Airglide 460 suspension. It has Patchell logging gear, a matching trailer...and many, many extras.

Truck & Driver | 81

Recently

Registered

www.trt.co.nz

Two identical Hino 500 Series trucks have gone on the road for Whangarei’s DJ Donaldson Contracting, carting oversize tanks all around the North Island. The 4x2 FD1124s have air suspension and custombuilt bodies built by Morgan Engineering in Whangarei.

Super Freight has recently put this new Kenworth T410 6x4 day cab tractor unit to work. It has a 510hp PACCAR MX engine, an 18-speed Roadranger manual transmission and Meritor RT46-160GP diffs on Airglide 400 suspension.

82 | Truck & Driver

Pokeno’s McRobbie Bros has put this new DAF CF85 6x4 tipper on the road.

It has a 510hp PACCAR MX engine, an 18-speed Roadranger manual gearbox, Meritor RT46-160GP diffs on Airglide 400 suspension and a T&G steel body.

TRANSMISSIONS Genuine Eaton Roadranger transmissions, factory or TRT rebuilds. Specs also available for all Japanese and European makes and models including Hino, Fuso, Nissan, Isuzu, Foden & DAF.

Huge st

ock ava

ilable

DRIVESHAFTS

We are your experts for heavy transport, marine and construction Manufacture Balancing Rebuild

ISRI

Spares & Repairs

Is your Isringhasusen seat in need of a new lease on life?

6860/875 Pro Integrated 3-point seat belt system.Self levelling air suspension with a weight range up to 150kg.

Backrest with integrated head restraint.

ISRI SEATS NOW AVAILABLE FROM TRT

Call and talk with our seating team today!

Comprehensive ISRI rebuild service.

Full upholstery & retrimming.

CALL US TODAY

Custom builds Spare parts for most major brands

Extensive range of spare parts.

Service exchange seats available.

to talk with our parts team!

Ham: 07 849 4839 Akl: 09 262 0683 Chch: 03 741 2261

www.trt.co.nz

CLASSIFIED TRUCK & DRIVER

T

R

U

C

K

A

C

C

E

S

S

O

R

I

E

S

Manufacturers & Distributors of:

4

84 | Truck & Driver

Available from your local truck dealership or: Te Apunga Place, Mt Wellington, Auckland. P.O. Box 62182.

Phone (09) 276-9086. Fax (09) 276-2909. www.visordistributors.co.nz AP21327

TD26073

• Roof Air Deflectors and Side Skirts • Fibreglass Sunvisors • Windscreen Stoneguards • Weathershields • Headlight Covers • Bonnet Bug Guards • Tipper Skirts

Grabasub

11 ISSUES

11 ISSUES $ 20

79. $70

93.50

$

ONLY

$80

ONLY

INCL. GST

INCL. GST

Saving $13.50

Saving $9.80

(INCLUDES EQUIPMENT GUIDE)

(INCLUDES EQUIPMENT GUIDE)

13%

14%

4 ISSUES

SUBSCRIBE TO ALL 3 MAGAZINES

32.00

$

$160

INCL. GST

Saving $2.00

for Saving $45 – 22% GET YOUR COPIES EVERY MONTH! SUBSCRIBE NOW!

4 SUBSCRIBE EASY WAYS TO

$30

ONLY

6%

NEW ZEALAND’S LEADING INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS

Post PO Box 112062 Penrose, Auckland 1642

Ph 09 571 3544

Email accounts@trucker.co.nz

www.alliedpublications.co.nz

Tick boxes NZ TRUCK & DRIVER 1 year (11 issues) for $80 incl. GST NZ LOGGER 1 year (11 issues) for $70 incl. GST NZ TRUCKBODY & TRAILER 1 year (4 issues) for $30 incl. GST

3 TITLES $160 incl. GST

Please tick appropriate magazine title box

MY DETAILS NAME:

FOR ME

A GIFT

Renewal of current subscription:

No.

RECIPIENT DETAILS FOR GIFT SUBSCRIPTION NAME: ADDRESS:

PHONE (day): EMAIL:

ADDRESS:

SEND A GIFTCARD TO (tick one):

TO ME

TO RECIPIENT

PHONE (day): EMAIL:

AP21327

PAYMENT

VISA

MASTERCARD

CARD HOLDER NAME: SECURITY CODE:

AMEX

CHEQUE

EXPIRY DATE: SIGNATURE:

Terms and conditions: Subscription rates and a free copy of Equipment Guide are for NZ orders only and only for NZ Truck and Driver and NZ Logger subscriptions. Rates include GST and postage. For overseas prices please enquire.

CLASSIFIED TRUCK & DRIVER

EASTERN BAY STOCK Every rural community in New Zealand used to have their local and sometimes more than one local rural carrier. These fleets provided a full range of rural services from picking up hay delivering sand and metal and carrying live stock.

Through the many rural downturns one by one many of these companies disappeared and slowly the rural carrier became a thing of the past.

Today many of these fleets are gone for ever but once again Gavin Abbot has brought them back to life with yet another of his collector series of books compiled from his extensive photo library, order your copy now of this limited edition collectors series.

LIMITED EDITION

For just $45-00 plus $6-50 postage and handling $51-50

TD29487

Those that survived did so by diversifying and expanding into national operations.

For your copy contact: Postage: Gavin Abbot, 34 Elliott Street, Opotiki 3122 Or email: clamyhen@xtra.co.nz

OPOTIKI TRANSPORT CO. It all started with the Opotiki flood of 1918 when farmer S.S Brewster lost his farm and started suppling fire wood in Opotiki to provide an income for himself. Starting out with a horse and cart then as motor vehicles became available he purchased one and started the Opotiki Transport story.

For just $40-00 plus postage and handling $7-00

LIMITED EDITION

For your copy contact: Paper Plus Opotiki, PO Box 37, Opotiki Ph 07 315 6263 Fax 07 315 7133 Email opotiki@paperplus.co.nz 86 | Truck & Driver

TD28770

The full story of this pioneering company complimented by Gavin Abbots fine photo library, another collectors must have.

GOT SURPLUS

EQUIPMENT?

LET OUR PROVEN, FULL SERVICE SOLUTION TURN YOUR IDLE INVENTORY INTO CASH....

Fast

TALK TO OUR TEAM TODAY TRUDY WOOLSTON

AUCKLAND, NORTHLAND, BOP, WAIKATO, CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

DION ROUT

AUCKLAND, LOWER NORTH ISLAND, SOUTH ISLAND

MOB: 027 233 0090 EMAIL: TRUDY@TRUCKER.CO.NZ MOB: 027 491 1110 EMAIL: DION@TRUCKER.CO.NZ

CLASSIFIED TRUCK & DRIVER

Keep your magazines for future reference

the auto accessory specialists Manufacturers & Distributors of: Ute, Car & 4x4:

• Top Air Deflectors • Sunvisors • Stoneguards • Headlight covers • Door Weathershields • Bonnet Guards

• SteelTop Canopies • Tonneau Covers • Nudge Bars • Side Steps • Headlight Covers • Bonnet Guards • Bed-Liners • Tailgate Assist - Prolift

Purchase a Binder today! keeP your collection in toP condition For your binder simply fill in this form and return it to: New ZealaNd Truck & driver magaZiNe along with $32.00 (GST, P&P incl) Name: Address:

• Quad H 2560 x • Sony S • Bufferi • F1.6 A • 2.0 inc • 140 W • GPS Lo • G Sens Suppo

Phone: Fax: Visa

Mastercard

Amex

Cheque (Make payable to Allied Publications Ltd)

Card No.

*TRUCK *CAR *4X4

Name of Card Holder: Expiry date: Signature:

www.airplex.co.nz

TD16969

TD30597

Airplex Industries Ltd

21 Saleyards Road, Otahuhu, Auckland Phone +64 9 276 9826 Toll Free: NZ 0800AIRPLEX Fax +64 9 276 9836 Email: info@airplex.co.nz

STE

FIVE WAR Security#:

Post to: New ZealaNd Truck & driver magaZiNe PO Box 112062, Penrose, Auckland or Fax: 09 571 3549 Order online: www.alliedpublications.co.nz

New Zealand’s First 1000 Macks

REC EXC TRA GEN

To order your copy please email: mansell@orcon.net.nz or grant.gadsby3@xtra.co.nz

88 | Truck & Driver

TD28429

From the stock carriers of the South Island to the off-highway loggers of Kaingaroa, Mack trucks were seen hauling the biggest loads in every corner of our country.

Soon these mighty machines will be celebrating 50 years of service to Kiwis and to commemorate the occasion, Ed Mansell, Paul Livsey and Grant Gadsby have collected the best photographs of these trucks, supplied by many of New Zealand’s top truck photographers, to combine into a book of the finest photography.

The book follows the “lives” of the first thousand Mack trucks assembled at Motor Truck Distributors in Palmerston North, from brand spanking new, through their subsequent owners until their inherent demise, or in some cases complete preservation or restoration.

Due for release in 2022 to coincide with fifty years of service, we are asking for expressions of interest in purchasing this complete anthology of New Zealand’s first thousand Mack trucks.

The book will be a hard covered, coffee table styled book in full colour, of approximately 500 pages. We intend to limit the number to one thousand copies, allowing any Mack owners the possibility of purchasing their trucks equivalent book number.

Once your order is placed you will be guaranteed to receive a copy should you wish to proceed at the time of publication. No payment is expected at this time, but we may require a deposit be paid early in 2022.

A price indication is approximately $135 plus, but this may change due to the quantity finally printed, and inflation, over which we have no control.

Numbers will be limited so get your name on the list for this once in a life-time book.

This book will not be reprinted after the initial production run.

EG30563

Truck Accessories:

S

TRANSPORT, DIESEL & MARINE

THE RIGHT PARTS…THE RIGHT PRICES…RIGHT HERE! HIGH DEFINITION DVR DASH CAM

SPICER CLUTCHES

$199.99+GST

• Quad HD+ high definition 2560 x 1600P • Sony STARVIS IMX335 5MP Sensor • Buffering Parking Mode • F1.6 Aperture 7 Elements Glass Lens • 2.0 inch HD LCD Display • 140 Wide Viewing Angle • GPS Logger • G Sensor & Motion Detection Supported

• Parking Mode Supported • Quick Release Mount • Windscreen Mount • Circular Polarizing Lens Filter (not included – see below linked lens filter to suit) • Can be hardwired (not included – see below linked hard wire kit to suit) • Support Micro SD Card Class 10 up to 256GB (not included)

STEMCO HUBO’S

$POA

SUIT JAPANESE APPLICATION WITH RTLO14918, RTLO16918 RATED TO 1650FT LBS $920.00 EA+GST

EATON 6109, 8209, 8309

FACTORY REMAN TRANSMISSIONS AND PARTS AVAILABLE

HINO 500 FILTER KIT

FIVE YEAR/500,000KM WARRANTY

NATIONAL SEATS

CONTAINS: FS36212 FF5732 LF16110 $75.00+GST

HI & LOW BASE

MITSUBISHI CLUTCH

RECONDITIONED EXCHANGE TRANSMISSIONS + GENUINE PARTS

CAB BLOWER KIT

PEDAL SHAFT $400.00 EA+GST ON EXCHANGE

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING

AUTO ELECTRICAL

WITH FITTINGS $41.80+GST

MECHANICAL SERVICE & REPAIRS

EG30563

AVAILABLE AT OUR PENROSE & PAPAKURA LOCATIONS

Ph: 0800 501 133 www.tdm.co.nz

Specials valid while stocks last.

8 Prescott Street, Penrose, Auckland Email: ray@tdm.co.nz | john@tdm.co.nz