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Member
Mediation: An agreeable outcome
HR Advice: Managing long-term absence
Training & Development: Upskilling ICE for future tech
Repairer: New VIC good to go
Colllision Repairer: Participation and the CRA/MTA
Energy and Heavy Vehicle: MVR reports due
Dealer: From surviving to thriving
Editor Gerald Rillstone
027 252 3229
gerald.rillstone@mta.org.nz
Postal address PO Box 9244, Marion Square, Wellington 6141
The Motor Trade Association (Inc) (MTA) is not responsible for statements, opinions or factual matters published in Radiator magazine, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of MTA, its Board of Directors or its advisory/specialty committees, unless expressly so stated, and does not endorse advertisers.
Radiator magazine is available free to all members of MTA. Information on products and services contained in the editorial and advertising pages of this magazine is published as a service and no responsibility will be taken for inaccurate information.
Radiator magazine does not imply the endorsement of any product or service.
The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising and editorial at any stage.
Copyright: No part of Radiator magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher.
Refreshing your pricing strategy
Scarcely a month goes by without a well-meaning member complaining about ‘the guy down the road doing cheap warrants’. ‘There’s no way in hell anyone can make money doing warrants that cheap’, so they say. Yet they survive.
Predictably, we quickly steer the conversation to reasons MTA can’t talk about it: price fixing, cartels, the Commerce Act etc, as we seek to protect ourselves, and them, by explaining that we are forbidden from having discussions about market pricing. Pricing is between you and your competition, and not to be discussed with us or each other. Break that rule and you’ll end up in seriously hot water with the Commerce Commission.
Overall, I view this as symptomatic of the revenue management immaturity of the industry. So, allow me to wind you up.
If I owned a mechanical repair shop, I’d be doing warrants for $1. You’d all be grumpy and complaining to MTA. All while I’d be busy stealing your customers.
and some frozen edamame beans before you made it to the checkout. That’s why they put the milk as far from the exit as conceivably possible. It’s Machiavellian.
Ryanair make no money from $1 flights. But they are now the largest airline in Europe. Their €1.9 billion profit last year would suggest they’re doing something right.
Farewell Bob
Speaking of refreshes, it gives me great pleasure to announce that you have chosen the next President of the MTA: Sturrock Saunders. The next MTA Director has also been chosen: Rob Braun. Congratulations to both, and I look forward to working with you over the coming years.
Which also means it’s time to farewell Bob Boniface, whose three-year tenure as President comes to an end at this year’s AGM, after a total of 12 years on the MTA board.
I know Bob very modestly recalled his extensive list of achievements in the last edition of Radiator, so I won’t attempt to re-hash that here.
But I can say at a personal level Bob has been a great supporter and mentor, with a remarkably open mind, balanced viewpoint, and unique perspective on most any subject you could ask him about.
To quote fellow MTA Director Grant Woolford, ‘he’s a man who gets shit done’. Quite. And with few prisoners taken along the way.
New MTA President
Sturrock Saunders will be a familiar and respected face to many MTA members. He and his family have been associated with MTA for many years and made a significant contribution to its success.
I’ll make no money from warrants – I’d be losing it hand over fist. But I’d get the follow up work, get customer details in my database to market to in the future, and hell, they might drop their guard and buy some wiper-blades or a new battery for their key remote while they’re at it.
I’d be totally honest about it and if the car passed, I’d say ‘great’, collect my $1, smile, ask them to give me 5* on Google, and see them next time. Trust in the back pocket. And they’ll recommend me to their friends. Whose car will probably fail.
Of course I am being facetious... My point is that calculating the number of minutes and resources consumed to complete a warrant, plus a margin, is but one method to price management. A noble and honest one; very popular in our industry. But a perspective none the less.
Pricing strategies don’t need to be so one dimensional.
Supermarkets make no money from a $5 bottle of milk. But I bet you slipped and brought a bag of ANZAC biscuits
There are plenty of businesses that created space for themselves by racing to the top. Even in commoditised markets, like car rental, where purveyors offer essentially same vehicle from the same airport, provided with the same service, same terms and conditions, pricing can vary by threefold from top to bottom of the market.
Yet plenty of people still choose to pay the top fee. Why?
Sometimes for the belief that by paying more, they’ll get more. Because you gave them a discount code that made it ‘feel’ cheaper. Because they associate with one particular brand or colour more than the other. For the belief that something must be wrong with the cheaper options. Humans are complicated beasts. We’re all unique, and different strategies will appeal to certain types of people.
So, when I open my shop next to you very soon (and let me be clear, I will be coming for YOUR business!), rather than grumble about my unprofitable warrants, perhaps ask yourself who ‘your’ customers are. Maybe your pricing strategy could do with a refresh?
But seriously, you’d be unlikely to meet someone as sharp-minded as Bob - his judgement, intellect, and capacity to understand and simplify complex issues is unrivalled. Your presence will certainly be missed, and I speak for many when I say your commitment and passion for MTA will be hard to replace.
As the sun sets on your chapter of challenging assumptions, embracing change, and striving for better, so the next begins. Leave knowing that you have left the organisation in a better place than you found it.
Sturrock is the current Vice-President of MTA, Board member of Auto Stewardship NZ, Finance and Risk Chair of Tyrewise, Chairman of Inspiring Futures Foundation, Director of VTNZ, and a previous MITO Director.
He is a proud MTA Guild Member with a lifelong involvement in the automotive industry. Sturrock has proven track record of success in business, leadership and governance in the automotive sector and is committed to take on this important MTA and industry role.
Sturrock’s father Lawrie also served on the MTA Board, as well as the MTF Board.
Lawrie established Mayfield Motors in 1965, which Sturrock and wife Jo took over in 2002 and sold in 2015.
New Director
Rob Braun was elected to the vacant Director position, following the departure of Bob Boniface. Rob is a vastly experienced and successful member of the automotive industry.
In his election profile, Rob promised to listen to members and articulate topical issues, with the goal of achieving tangible outcomes for members. MTA welcomes Sturrock and Rob to their new roles.
•You can read in-depth profiles on Sturrock and Rob in the December issue of Radiator.
Bob Boniface explains industry issues to Simeon Brown.
Launching the 2023 political manifesto Driving NZ Forward at Parliament
Simeon Brown has made a range of automotive policy changes since taking office.
'We have a really good relationship with MTA' — Minister
Former British Prime Minister Harold Wilson famously once said: "A week is a long time in politics."
Based on that, his first year as Transport Minister must feel like a lifetime for Simeon Brown.
It’s also an appropriate time for him to face – or side-step – Radiator's questions about his time in office so far.
As the Minister for Local Government, Brown’s office was a hive of activity when we caught up with him amid the simmering tensions with Wellington City Council and threats of government intervention.
No such tensions in his relationship
with MTA, he was quick to stress.
“We have a really good relationship with MTA, we engage regularly with MTA, and I think that MTA's members should feel that the Association is doing a great job ensuring that voice is being heard, and not just at the level of ministerial involvement, but also through engaging with the departments as well.”
On to the nitty-gritty. First up, the Warrant of Fitness (WoF), and the first sign that pinning the Minister down on specifics was going to be like nailing jelly to the wall.
asked for advice from the Ministry of Transport about some of these issues, but we don't have anything further at this stage that we can say.”
It’s a similar tune on increasing fines for not having a WoF: “The Government Policy Statement on Transport outlines that as one of the issues we want to look at, but as you know there are only so many things you can do at any one point in time.
“We are getting advice in regard to the regulatory framework around this issue, [but] we don’t have any timeframe at this point.”
EV chargers
Before the election, National trumpeted plans to roll 10,000 EV chargers by 2030 around the country, if the business case stacks up.
Some groups have expressed doubts about the target, but Brown is keen to see changes to the grants system that was being used to fund them, which was put in place by the National Government and then continued under Labour.
forms of transport are going to cost more.
There’s already Road User Chargers (RUC) for EVs and plugin hybrids, and RUC is to come for all vehicles in the coming years, but it’s tolling which seems to be the next cab off the rank. Brown is unapologetic when it comes to increased costs for everyday drivers.
“It is about making sure the people using those roads pay for it, and we are currently underrecovering the cost of building and maintaining our roading network, and that’s why we have outlined some significant increases.”
Brown is keen to highlight changes he’s made, repealing the Clean Car Discount (“Ute Tax”) and
amendments the to the Clean Car Standard.
But he’s vague on details about what might coming next other than to say he’s putting in place work programmes for the next two years around a whole range of things, including what's outlined in the Government Policy Statement on Transport.
“We have signalled some significant increases in the future, so that we can build and maintain our road network to the standards that New Zealanders expect it to be able to do. The changes around electric vehicles, that's very clear. If you use the road, you need to pay for it.
“It’s about having a fair approach, there are variances in the system
Under the current regime, cars more than 20 years old are still only required to get a WoF every year – which MTA believes is a significant safety concern, and should be addressed by a ‘sliding scale’ as vehicles age.
During the 2023 MTA Political Debate, Brown committed to looking at the current WoF structure and says that hasn’t changed –although he wouldn’t commit to a timeframe.
“As I said in my comments before the election, there's a need to have a look at this issue. We have
“Obviously that is simply subsidising businesses to put in an investment, we're looking at how we can change that. We've got a request for information out in the market now, around more of an ultra-fast broadband type of approach, which is what we campaigned on, looking at actually recycling capital and having that money reinvested once those charge points become profitable.
“Ten thousand is a large number and if you look at what our projections of the number of EVs are, and international comparisons, that's the number we're going to need to get to.”
Revenue raising
One thing that is becoming clear throughout the interview is that all
Out and about with motoring enthusiasts at a car show.
of course, because fuel excise duty is charged on a per litre basis rather than a per kilometre basis and that's why we said every vehicle should be paying on a per kilometre basis. It's a fair way for charging for road use.”
Future ‘electric’
One consequence of Government policy has been the impact on sales of electric vehicles, which has been felt hard by many MTA members.
The dealer sector has had a rough ride since the RUC was introduced on EVs and the Clean Car Discount (CCD) was scrapped in quick succession, but Brown is unrepentant.
“We're not going to be subsidising people's choices and taxing other people's choices because ultimately that's not the way to change behaviour.
“A lot of people brought their purchases forward to December (2023) in order to get the subsidy. It was consumer behaviour naturally responding to the Government subsidising people's choices and taxing others.
“The prices of those vehicles will drop, the availability will increase, and the range of those batteries will become better for New Zealanders - the future is electric.
“The economy is in a very challenging space right now, interest rates have been incredibly high, we've seen that right across all parts of the car market, but we're starting to see positive signs of recovery as the interest rates start to drop, which is good.
“We're seeing those green shoots and we're seeing those car import numbers start to increase.”
Safe speeds
Reversing the Labour government's speed limit reductions on local streets, arterial roads, and state highways is underway.
While the medical community has been vocal and clear that it will result in more deaths and serious injury, Brown says the change will help build the economy.
“It’s about the safety and efficiency of the network, the increases are less than what it is in many
European countries.
“The point is, we've said here very clearly, there's a rule in place which allows road controlling authorities to balance safety and efficiency, but where roads are designed to 110kmh or 120kmh, they should be able to operate at those speeds – to support people getting where they need to go quickly and safely.”
Te Pūkenga
MTA recently sent Tertiary Education Minister Penny Simmonds a clear message – the Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO) must be an industry-led, industry-owned entity.
Radiator asked if Brown would throw his support behind it. Again, he was cagey.
“Across transport, technology is developing rapidly, and we need the regulatory and the training frameworks to actually keep pace, to enable that. And that's where industry having a really, really strong role in training is so important because industry
can respond a lot faster than governments can.
“I'm not going to comment other than to say, it's good to see MTA engaging on the issue, it's important that industry has a strong voice and obviously we'll be engaging as part of that process as the Minister of Transport.”
He also side-stepped supporting MTA’s call for Government to allow retailers to claim a rebate on relevant taxes on stolen fuel.
“The reform we're proposing around road user charges, I think actually addresses a lot of that.”
Which is little comfort to service station owners while they wait for the change to be ratified.
Towage fees
Towage fees were increased for the first time in at least 20 years earlier this year, and Brown agrees there needs to be a change to prevent a decades-long wait for the next increase.
“It's an area that we're looking at in terms of wider reform, in particular around some of these local government fees, as well as around inflation adjustment.
“The legislation would need to be updated to enable that, so we will be having a look at some of those policies, but in the meantime, we wanted to provide immediate relief on that issue, which was to ensure that proper cost recovery could be established.
“We acknowledge the ongoing issue and will continue to engage with MTA on that, on those policy changes and others.”
Even if he’s reluctant to share specifics just yet.
Brown on the front line of road policing. Working with industry on sustainability.
Getting their Royale kicks on Route 66
A trip down road – and rock n’ roll – royalty was the inspiration for MTA member Chris Gibbs when it came to his Royale Cars and Motorcycles dealership.
Six years ago, Chris was riding a Harley-Davidson on a 3940km pilgrimage down the famous Route 66, inspiration for the famous rock song, when the big bold advertising of Harley and Indian showrooms caught his eye.
“I thought, ‘man I really want to do something like that,’” Chris says. Arriving home, his first task was to convince his wife a similar approach was a good idea for his Hamilton business - easier said than done.
“I showed my wife the photos and told her it was what I would like to do. She replied, ‘you don’t need fancy premises to sell cars darling.’
“I told her that after having been in
the business for 40-plus years and nearing retirement, I think I deserve to go out in style.”
On a site big enough to accommodate a couple of hundred cars he built and expansive showroom and set about adding franchise brands.
Chris had a vision of what he wanted to do but knew there was no chance of getting a HarleyDavidson franchise – MTA member Barry Sproule has the Hamilton branch.
But Polaris, who build Indians, wanted in on the action.
It was a tough decision to make.
Chris had been buying Harleys for over 30 years.
“I said, ‘hold on I have never ridden an Indian’, so they gave me an Indian Chieftain Limited to use for a month to help me make up my mind, which I did while riding it
Divine inspiration
Chris has a deep passion for riding motorbikes and the business of selling them.
But he had an unusual start to the business. You could say it was divine inspiration.
“In 1979, I came back from serving on a mission for the Mormon Church,” he says.
“My plan was to go to medical school in Otago, but the course didn’t start till March the following year and I had to find something to do for six months.”
A friend of his knew the General Manager at dealership Fairview Motors and Chris saw the light.
“I thought if I can sell God, I can certainly sell cars.”
He was turned down for a position in Hamilton but found one at Wanganui Motors working for owner at the time, one Herbie Dyke.
from Hamilton to Whitianga going over the Kopu-Hikuai Hill.”
Chris sold his brand-new HarleyDavidson Street Glide CVO, which he says was the best around, and has been a dedicated Indian fan ever since.
“I have had new Harleys every two years since I was 30 and the Indian is a far superior bike, they are more balanced and are just a nicer bike to ride.”
Part of the vision was the new yard capable of accommodating around 350 vehicles.
And the expansive showroom he’s built to display the several franchises under the Royale banner, Indian, Royal Enfield, Peugeot scooters, Polaris, KTM, Benelli, CFMoto along with other merchandise.
diary system to guide him. He also has his desk in the middle of the showroom, so he knows what is going on.
“I run my entire business out of my diary, I know every sale that is on the go,” Chris says.
On one page there’s a list of current sales, highlighted in green, and when the sale is completed, it gets transferred to the next page, highlighted in yellow, and ones that are dead marked in pink.
“My diary tells me everything that I need to know, cashflow, reconditioning everything, it is quick and easy, old-school simple.”
Son-in-law Elijah Tipene works for him and has reluctantly adopted the diary system also. He plans to take over the dealership along with a brother-in-law when Chris retires.
After few years selling at various other yards in Hamilton, Auckland and Australia, Chris started his own yard in Hamilton in 1991, selling Japanese imports and secondhand cars and in 2018, imported late-model Harleys.
Diary devotee
Chris is a firm believer in keeping an eye on everything in the business and lives by his old school
“I cannot deny the diary system, it does work. I wish that it didn't work so well but the book doesn't fail, ink doesn’t fail to load like a computer file can,” Elijah says.
Chris intends to stay in the business he loves for another five years but isn’t keen for that day to come.
“I have no idea what I am going to do with myself.”
Right now, he’s still on life's highway and enjoying a right royal ride.
Chris with son-in-law Elijah who is looking to take on the business when Chris retires.
Chris keeps an eye on the business from the heart of the showroom.
Chris imported this custom Harley from the US.
Chris and his brother Phil.
Elijah loves his Indians.
Don’t dump bumpers – revive them
Tackling the plastic bumper waste mountain is a complex issue that needs to have more than one solution.
One solution MTA member Paul Young wants is for the panel repair industry to look at using refurbished bumpers more often – rather than throwing them away – as a workable way of reducing waste.
“The cheapest solution at the moment is for me to cut the bumpers up and chuck them in the van and take them down to the tip. It costs forty bucks, and I can get rid of around 70 bumpers that will take a thousand years to disappear,” Paul says.
“I hate it, and I am not a tree hugger. But we are doing our bit refurbishing them and it’s something others need to think about.”
Paul’s business, Bumper Replacements Auckland, has been in the bumper business for decades.
He’s the third generation in his
family to run the business, which was initially set up to electroplate metal parts with the chroming of bumpers a big part of the business in its early years.
Paul’s been repairing plastic bumpers since their inception in the 1980s and has seen the practice of dumping repaired bumpers in favour of new ones become more prevalent over the last decade.
He has a team of dedicated plastic bumper repairers welding and sanding bumpers, giving them a second life and would feel a lot happier if the practice became the norm rather than a little used second choice.
“It’s not because I am in the business, I would be happy to see someone else set up business and do them, it’s about taking responsibility for the problem,” he says.
Paul says there is some resistance from panel beaters about using a refurbished bumper, because they
are never going to be like a brand new one. He freely admits there can be extra finishing needed on a repaired one, but no more in his opinion than preparing a new plastic bumper. What needs to change is the practice of insurance companies allowing new bumpers to be used when a second-hand one would do the job.
“That is something that has evolved over the last five to ten years, the insurance companies are saying yes [to a new bumper] when they should be saying no,” Paul says.
“It is a real problem, and it is all quite frustrating.”
Chrome to plastic
Paul took over the business when his father passed away in 1984, prompting him to give up a job he enjoyed in the finance industry to keep the family business running. He joined just as the plastic bumper revolution was getting under way,
although, he says bumpers back then were either grey or black so there was no colour match paint needed and there were fewer models on the road.
“When I started in the business, we were doing 15 steel bumpers a day but now we only do a couple. The business is one third plastic, one third stainless steel electro polishing and one third chrome plating,” he says.
Prior to Japanese imports arriving the business would have racks of replacement bumpers ready to be used, but as the popularity of the imported models grew the bumper replacements became too complex and costly to keep up with.
“Now we have two vans that go out and pick up bumpers every day for repair mainly from wreckers that are supplying the parts industry,” he says.
“We also have a branch in the South Island, and it supplies us with chrome bumper work.”
Paul with some of the used bumpers he has in storage.
Welding any damaged parts is all part of the process.
Paul checks one of the baths used in the electroplating process.
Bumpers
landfill.
British classics and Aussie icons
Many MTA staff love vehicles as much as you do and have a story to tell about them. This month, MTA Sector Manager — Dealers & Specialists Services, Larry Fallowfield.
My car journey began with an array of what would be described today as old British classic, or as some would say, some of the ugliest cars ever manufactured: a Morris 1100, 1300 and 1800, Austin Cambridge, Triumph 2000 and 2.5, Ford MK1 Zepher, 315 Consol and a Transit van, Vauxhall PB and a Chevette, Wolseley 6/110.
The Wolseley was a true classic and I managed to buy a full, immaculate, leather interior out of a Wolseley Vanden Plas for it, giving it that Rolls Royce feel. It also had a backup starter, a crank handle that I had to use on more than one occasion on the frosty mornings delivered up during an
80s Hamilton winter.
Given the 6/110 weighed a tonne and a half, it could still get up and go doing 0-100kms in about 30 minutes.
Then I buckled and went Japanese, with a Datsun 120Y, 180B, and Toyota Corolla and that was all before I was 25.
Over the ensuing years I moved on to drive some of New Zealand’s fastest vehicles – company cars! Iconic panel van
In my early twenties I worked part-time as a doorman at a movie theatre, the little old grey-headed manager had a ’78 Holden Sandman sitting in her garage that had been highly modified by her late son.
Larry.fallowfield@mta.org.nz
She would talk about the fun she had in blowing away “boy racers” at the lights or zooming past them on the motorway at well over 120mph (200kms); that was the driving force for me some 20 years later to purchase a sight-unseen yellow submarine (a Holden HZ panel van) from Blenheim.
Over the next nine months I set about giving the old submarine a bare-metal respray before heading on a 5,000km journey from Auckland to Invercargill return, and the now “blue beast” didn’t miss a beat, or an opossum, on the entire journey.
Just another Aussie doing its bit for the New Zealand ecosystem.
Govt's one year report card
The new government has now passed the one year mark. New Zealanders are fair minded on the whole and will generally give a new administration some breathing space after an election, but the one year mark is something of a threshold – at this point the government has set out its agenda, implemented many policies and put a Budget in place. They’re now firmly responsible for what’s happening, good or bad.
The old saying from Bill Clinton’s 1992 campaign was “it’s the economy, stupid”, pointing to the fact that whatever other issues are doing the rounds, if people are feeling economic pain and uncertainty that will be the dominant issue. We are now deep in the most severe recession since the GFC with recent unemployment figures showing tens of thousands fewer jobs and sadly, many small businesses shutting up as consumers close their wallets. The automotive industry is not immune to this.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Most other countries have emerged from the post-Covid high inflation environment in much better shape. Our recession has been made longer and deeper as a specific result of government (and Reserve Bank)
decisions to choke off investment. Decisions such as the freeze of public housing investment have decimated construction with firms closing down and many losing their jobs. This flows on to sub-industries too. As those businesses and workers stop spending, other firms struggle and so on and so on. At precisely the time that smart government investment in infrastructure and households is needed to give demand a push along, the government has retrenched. Remember that next time you hear of another local business closing because people aren’t spending.
At the same time we are seeing crucial public services such as health struggling as the government underfunds our hospitals, GPs, and nurses. Every New Zealander should be able to rely on the public health system to be there when they need it, yet increasing stories of overloaded EDs, stressed out nurses, and long GP waiting times show that government underfunding is having real world impacts on the lives of kiwis. It doesn’t have to be this way. The government has made choices to fund tax cuts for tobacco companies instead of healthcare for the rest of us. There are some other strange
choices too – scrapping the critical Interislander ferry upgrade with no backup plan, crashing the booming market for EVs, sudden lurches to immigration policy that have taken crucial roles off the Green List, and charging into another upheaval of vocational education without a clear plan. All of these will create real issues for people, businesses, and communities in the coming year.
It has been a tough year for many and I wish you well as we head towards the end of 2024. The automotive industry continues to provide vital services to our communities, and employs and trains tens of thousands of New Zealanders in rewarding careers. It’s my last column for 2024, so please stay safe and enjoy time with loved ones over the summer break.
• Michael Wood served as an MP from 2016-2023 and held a number of Ministerial roles including Transport and Immigration in the Labor government. He is currently Negotiation Specialist at E tū Union. The opinions expressed in his columns are his, and do not necessarily reflect those of MTA.
Michael Wood
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New MTA staff
Two new team members have joined MTA this month.
Mark Walker
We welcome Mark Walker to the Mediation team, who will be based at the MTA’s Auckland Campus.
Mark joins the team fresh from a 6-month break travelling with his partner to the UK and says he is glad to not be living out of a suitcase any longer. Mark has been a part of the automotive industry most of his career and completed his automotive apprenticeship at East City Ford, then moved to Strong Honda, where he covered numerous roles in sales and key account management over the last 25plus years.
Lia Paddy
MTA welcomes Lia Paddy to the Auckland Campus team as the Product and Strategy Manager.
Lia has a diverse background in sales and commercial partnerships and previously worked in recruitment and for Business Australia as their Partnerships Manager. She also has a background in IT sales leadership roles and most recently worked as an independent consultant on a variety of systems implementation projects.
Smoko Stumpers
Test your knowledge with our five-minute monthly motoring quiz.
Ratings:
1/5: Put your L plates back on.
2/5: Hit the books, rookie.
3/5: Middle of the road.
4/5: Close but no cigar.
5/5: Congratulations, you’ve outrun The Chaser.
1. Who makes the most
car in
2. During which Grand Prix did Ayrton Senna die? 3. In which race is it traditional for the winner to celebrate with milk?
5. In Australia, what does a P Plate stand for?
NOVEMBER
Spring into Feilding Car show
Saturday 23rd of November Open to all hot rods, vintage, classic and vehicles of interest
9.30 to 1 pm, Manchester Square Fielding
Southern Dragways Memorial
Teretonga Park Invercargill
Sunday November 24
All classes plus Roll Racing Timaru All Comers Car Show Cars, Utes and motorcycles
Sunday November 24th
$10 per car entry fee, gold coin for spectators Caroline Bay Timaru
All funds going to Cardiac Kids and Westpac Helicopter Rescue
Surpising my sister in Sydney was well overdue.
Here, there and everywhere
It’s been pretty full on since we last spoke – here, there and everywhere is almost an understatement.
Since my August column, I have attended one baby shower and two 21sts; I’ve surprised my sister in Sydney, and I worked the Daybreaker Rally in the North Island and the Ashley Forest Rallysprint in the South. And it isn’t about to stop yet!
Surprising my sister in Sydney was well overdue. It had been five years since I’d last seen her,
which was for her wedding in South Africa (where she lived up until a year ago). Now she had up and left her home country with her husband, moved to my side of the world and had a baby! Having her meet my partner meant the world to me – finally he gets to meet some more blood relatives other than my mum and dad, and maybe see where the madness comes from!
We surprised her at Sydney airport (which her husband did a great job getting her there for) and stayed with them for a week. I got to meet
worked for two days and was off again to Palmerston North. Daybreaker Rally was on and if it was going to be anything like Southern Lights in Invercargill, it was not going to be a letdown! With a similar set-up to Southern Lights, we began Friday evening with a starting ceremony and then a special stage. This stage was set up at the Central Energy Trust Arena and with two cars at a time on the track, they would start on opposite sides and race around the edge, head out of the arena, do some donuts around a barrel, and then head back into the area to swap sides and do It again. This was some great action to watch and quickly afterwards we started a 15-minute service on the cars. After a 2.45am wake-up, we began the next day – me with my trusty Krispy Kreme donut in one hand and a hot chocolate in the other – and headed off to the first service. The morning was set up with many services and many stages but by the time lunch came
the servicing was over and it was all up to the drivers and the refuel crews.
But you could’ve fooled us with the time; after the early start we had, 12pm felt like 4pm, and we were pooped. We still managed to stay up to celebrate the successful weekend though, turning a big day into a bigger day of being awake for 22 hours.
The results were great. We had Hayden [Paddon] and Jared
[Hudson] in first place, with Hayden completing a 400 NZRC stage victory, which was unreal. Our guest driver Brendan Reeves was in fourth place and Emma [Gilmour] and her co-driver Malcolm Read finished in 5th place after holding on to third for a lot of the morning. Very excited to see what the rest of the season holds!
Four days later and I was off again, to Rangiora for the Ashley Forest Rallysprint!
my niece, who I quickly came to adore, and we did a whole heap of touristy things, such as visiting Bondi, Taronga Zoo, and the botanical gardens in the city. Along with the touristy things we had many beers, did lots of shopping and also introduced my partner to some good old South African braais. The week spent there was amazing, like my sister and I had never been apart. We spent a week and a weekend in Oz, and landed at home very early on Tuesday morning. I then
Meet Mercedes Mulder. Timaru automotive technician Mercedes shares her thoughts on work and life in her regular column.
Hayden's car in action during the rally.
Servicing the cars during the Southern Lights rally.
The special thing for me about Ashley Forest is that this is where my love for Rally began. Three years ago, I won the Mito competition to work with Hayden for the weekend and I’ve been in love with the sport ever since. But not only was the event special for me, it was also extremely special for PRG and Hayden, as he showed off the very car he and John [Kennard] won Argentina in, in 2016.
Ashley Forest was very cool, the number of spectators that the event brought was crazy, with 3,000 to 4,000 people showing up. Having the EV Kona running Saturday morning was great; I think it surprises a lot of people when they see it in action.
Having the WRC car in New Zealand and on track was the best. Being able to say you’ve worked on a WRC car is even better! Sunday afternoon came around quickly, and we got down to the top 16. I went for a ride in Jeff Ward’s V8 BMW and it was unreal. Interesting how many people shook my hand and wished me the best before I got in it… but
I had a blast and we got his best time – still smiling ear to ear!
Emma ended up attending and she got fifth, breaking the minute mark and winning her class, which was super exciting, especially after never attending that rally before.
Following that it was the Top 4 shoot-out and then down to the Top 2 – Sloan Cox vs Hayden Paddon.
Now was the nail-biting time.
Sloan went first, bringing in a great
time of 53.99. Hayden was up next, and he got the old girl flying, finishing with a time of 53.88! He brought the trophy home again with .11 second difference. Unreal.
The thing I love about Ashley is the atmosphere at the end, the suspense while awaiting the results and the instant cheer and celebrations when they are announced. If you haven’t been to watch, you most definitely should.
Getting my hands dirty during a pit stop. Celebrating the end of a successful campaign.
Your road to success starts here
MITO Scholarships, in partnership with the Inspiring Futures Foundation, open for applications 7 October 2024.
Scan the QR code or head to mito.nz/scholarships to apply.
Another trpohy from the Ashley Forest race.
What you're telling us
Every month we reply to members’ questions and comments drawn from conversations with the MTA team. Do you need advice or an answer on something? Radiator would love to hear from you. Please email simon.bradwell@mta.org.nz.
I see MTA no longer uses EAP for counselling, which is a bit of a worry because I am halfway through my sessions with them. What will this mean for future counselling sessions? We have changed our Employee Assistance Programme provider to OCP.
If you are currently using our EAP services, they will continue until 30 November, so if you have already started a process with EAP, they will complete this process.
OCP offers the same services, plus additional benefits such as multilingual support and financial/legal advice. It is also far more accessible through the web app.
MTA meets the cost of up to four sessions, which are normally an hour long. If more than four appointments are required, these will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may be approved by MTA.
I am a bit confused over the new WoF reporting software and how you get a RealMe login and what it actually is?
RealMe is a government authentication service that allows you to access government and public services sectors online; it is simple and easy to navigate and only takes a few minutes.
What is happening with WoF courses, are they still being held and, if so, when will they be advertised again and will we go back to old format of face-to-face or not for WoF training?
MTA Sector Manager Repairer and Environment Glen McGarry, along with Learning and Development Manager Loretta Thompson, are currently in the process of putting together a new system that MTA hopes to offer nationwide.
We have recently changed our Eftpos machine and now MTA and CardLink cards won’t work in it –how do we sort this out?
You need to let one of MTA’s Member Support Officers know, and they can update the new terminal information in the system so you will be up and running again.
I am not sure who my MTA representative is and what some of the terms like MSO, MA and RC mean.
It is best explained that you have three MTA reps:
The Member Support Officer (MSO) is a phone call away and is based in MTA head office in Wellington; they are to bounce any ideas or concerns off and point you in the right direction.
In each region there is a Regional Coordinator (RC), who organises events and training and feedback from members to the wider team.
Membership Advisors (MA) visit members and have face-to-face interactions with them; they help with site reviews and general industry information, and sign up new members.
Thanks to Radiator from the Dominion Electrical Company for the position's vacant advertisement, we found someone local, and they hit the ground running.
That is great to hear, MTA has over 50 benifits that help members in a number of ways and the free situations vacant section in Radiator has been helping members find staff for over 100 years, no other publication comes close.
‘tistheseason ...
BEAT THE CHRISTMAS RUSH!
Order your MTA Gift Cards & Vouchers now
MTA members: Order via Toolbox stationery store Public: mta.org.nz/shop
MTA GIFT PRODUCTS
Important dates for Christmas
Orders
Last orders accepted for Christmas delivery: 18 December 2024.
Gift department closure dates: 23 December 2024 - 6 January 2025.
Online and email address orders received after 18 December will be despatched from 6 January 2024.
Redemptions
Vouchers received for redemption before 18 December 2024 will be paid by 23 December 2024.
Vouchers received for redemption after 18 December 2024 will be paid during the week of 6 January 2025.
Konnichiwa! Top tech Tom off to Japan
Subaru Technician Tom Sanders has been selected to represent New Zealand at the prestigious Subaru World Technical Competition (SWTC) in Japan this month.
Subaru Corporation hosts the renowned bi-annual event, featuring technicians from around the world who have qualified for selection in their local regions.
Tom works for MTA member Southern Motor Group, in Dunedin, and faced a rigorous process to be chosen by passing an online entrance exam, which Subaru New Zealand’s technical department developed and deployed across
the dealer network.
He came out on top achieving the highest score among all participants in the New Zealand network and it showed his skills and aptitude were on par with many of the leading technicians in Australia.
Earning an invitation to the Subaru World Technician Competition (SWTC) in November this year.
He’s getting great support form the Subaru of New Zealand team who took additional measures to support Tom’s preparation, included assessing historic SWTC case studies to understand SBR’s judgement criteria, logical
technicians from around the world.
diagnostic path flow, assessment conditions and desired best working practices.
“Based on Tom’s initial assessment results, we now understand his strengths and we have opportunities to support and pinpoint further development within those areas,” Subaru of New Zealand General Manager, Tim Barns-Lawton, says.
Tom says he’s pleased to have made his way through the challenging theory questions and was excited to be participating in a world class Subaru competition.
“I’m looking forward to meeting and competing against top
"I’ve heard about previous SWTC competitions and the test vehicle and I am keen to see how well I can perform in Japan,” he says. The 41-year-old’s interests are cars and “tinkering around getting things to work.”
This interest led to his current role as a Subaru Technician as he
had an older model, a twin turbo Subaru Legacy, he liked working on which inspired him to apply for the job at Southern Motor Group.
Tim says having a representative at the Subaru World Technician Competition is testament to Subaru of New Zealand’s commitment and perseverance towards technical excellence and customer service.
“Tom’s achievement helps position Subaru of New Zealand as a leader in fostering talent and maintaining high service standards towards gaining excellent customer satisfaction,” he says.
Mechancial Claims Assessor
Tom with Southern Motor Group Dunedin Manager Paul McMillian.
New Zealand.
Tom tackled challenging theory questions ...
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MTA expertise assists Aussies
MTA is helping the fuel industry across the ditch review its safety management of underground petroleum storage tanks.
NZ’S MOST WIDEESTABLISHED RANGE OF FILTRATION
MTA’s Mathew Alderdice, Sector Manager – Energy & Heavy Vehicles, was invited to the Asia Pacific Fuel Industry Forum (APFIF) to present to a technical working group on day two of the conference, with a focus on the state of underground petroleum storage tanks at fuel retail providers in Australia.
Mat says the perspective MTA provided was a benchmarking exercise as to how New Zealand has developed its legislation, regulatory framework, inspectors, and business impact regarding underground petroleum storage tanks.
Some glaring difference between New Zealand and Australia’s standards and the way they are legislated played into the complexity of the issues facing the Australian fuel industry, he says.
“A lot of the Australian Federal legislative powers have been handed over to the Australian
States, where as New Zealand has a centralised legislative body,” he says.
A significant challenge for the Australian fuel market is finding common ground between the State legislative bodies and regulatory organisations as to what best practice for industry is.
The working group at the conference was attended by Australian state regulatory organisations, fuel transport providers, fuel suppliers, and fuel retailers.
“A diverse range of perspectives provided input to the current state of safety management of underground petroleum storage tanks - what is currently working, what’s isn’t working, what is possibly missing, and how the fuel industry could review and improve the management of underground petroleum storage tanks.”
MTA’s perspective covered the history of New Zealand regulation
through to the current state of regulation which is a different path to what Australia took 30 years ago, with a legislated, regulated, and inspected system – quite a bit more developed than what is current practice in Australia.
Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association (ACAPMA), who hosted the APFIF, are writing up industry papers supporting a review of the current system in Australia, drawing on the themes and knowledge shared in the working group, with the MTA contributing expertise on how the New Zealand fuel industry manages underground petroleum storage tanks and what could be replicated.
The APFIF was held at the Brisbane convention centre in September and was a fuel industry conference with specialist workshops, a dynamic exhibition hall, networking events, and industry recognition/ awards.
Getting selected to be part of the support crew for New Zealand rally stars and MITO ambassadors Hayden Paddon and Emma Gilmour on the Daybreaker Rally in Manawatu has been the highlight of the year for MITO apprentices Hannah Bashford and Scott Angus. The pair stepped out of their typical workshop environments and into the fast-paced world of rally car servicing, working alongside a professional rally team. Their day was filled with high-pressure situations, learning new skills, and putting their apprenticeship training to the test.
Getting the chance to work with New Zealand’s top talent was
a dream come true for both and something Scott, who works for MTA member Motordrome Tyre & Auto Services Hastings, had been keen on doing for a while.
“My old man used to do rallying back in the 70s and 80s in his old Escort and I have always kind of been into rallying,” Scott says.
“I have helped the local Hawkes Bay Car Club on some of their events, so I thought I would put my hand up to go and work with Paddon’s crew, as my partner did it last year.”
It was a busy weekend and did involve early mornings, getting up at 3am to prep the car, Scott says. But it was worth it, making for a
really great to see how the team worked. There were some busy moments but overall, it was pretty chill.”
Scott says throughout the day they were tasked with crucial responsibilities during the service stops such as jacking up the vehicles, checking bolts, cleaning mud guards, and ensuring everything was in place before the car hit the next stage.
While Scott only had minor issues to deal with like a loose mud flap, he says the experience gave him insight into how modifications work on rally cars.
memorable weekend.
“It was bloody awesome.”
Hannah is an apprentice with MTA member Tasman Toyota and wanted to challenge herself. Getting to be part of Emma Gilmour’s team during the rally was exactly what she was looking for.
Hannah’s aim was to expand her automotive knowledge, try something new and says she loved the experience.
“I had never done anything like this before and thought ‘that looks cool why not give it a shot and see what can come of it, it might be a new career path,’” Hannah says.
“The 3.30am wake-up call was definitely something new, but it was
Hannah works on one of the rally cars.
Scott Angus and Hannah Bashford.
Scott gets stuck in and preps the car for the next stage.
Blast from the Past
Every month we revisit pages from Radiator's history.
larger turbos the power output jumps by 30 per cent to 489kW while twist is up by 15 per cent to 800Nm.
And that all goes to the rear wheels; no AWD trickery here. Aston wanted to retain the reardrive characteristics so beloved of keen drivers, and the steering purity uncorrupted by drive to the front axle.
They also made sure to shove the engine and transmission as far back into the engine bay as possible, ensuring a 50:50 front:rear weight distribution. There’s launch control too and a locking e-diff to get the power down, a rapid fire eight-speed auto, additional underbody stiffening and new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers. With its aluminium frame it weighs in at
Aston Martin Vantage 2024
Aston Martin Vantage in its latest iteration, is wider, lower and features added power to take the fight to the feisty 911s.
Back in the day the Vantages by Aston Martin weren’t really in the hunt against their natural foe, the 911, lacking in sheer acceleration and with odd transmissions. But that all changed in 2019.
Vantage got a twin-turbo powertrain, the output processed by an eight-speed auto transmission. It was the first Aston I’d piloted that was truly quick, and put it on a real footing with the 911.
Back then, it cost $250k but didn’t have adaptive cruise control. Now it has come in for a radical overhaul, and it gets ACC this time. And different style matrix LED headlights too.
It looks better, the grille 38 per cent bigger, the body wider by 170mm, more grounded and
aggressive. Plus it comes with gobs more power but, like everything, the price has risen by, er, $125k to $375k.
Hell’s bells. But to be fair, the 911 it competes with is the Carrera GTS Coupe and that’s nudging $350k. Only the car we drove had more than a few extras.
For this pre-production press vehicle came adorned with all the available fruit, all $144k of it. They weren’t itemised but you can bank on the carbon ceramic stoppers costing at least $20k, and you’d probably pay about as much for the carbon fibre diffuser hanging off its tail.
Ditto the 1170wpc 15-speaker B&W sound system. The special paint job by Q mustn’t have come cheap either, and then there’s the lashings of carbon lining the interior.
On top of which the seats are carbon race items, not the comfiest
I’ve encountered but they certainly do lock you in place. Not that they make entry and exit exactly a snip. Then there are the other carbon finishings on the outside of the vehicle.
The frameless carbon mirrors are a thing of beauty too. It looks sharp with the big black wheels, the burnt orange paint and those functional air tunnels.
People certainly notice this car. But then, they’d have to be deaf not to hear it first.
More power anyone?
Driving the sound is a motor that’s undergone a rather impressive transformation. It certainly closes the gap to previously quicker rivals. The Mercedes-AMG-derived 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 used to produce 375kW and 685Nm.
But now it features new cams, heads, block and crank while with
1745kg wet. What else to make it turn and burn?
Michelin Pilot Sport S5 rubber, screeds of it, 275/35ZR21s to the north and 325/30ZR21s to the driving wheels. They really wanted this Vantage to be the most “driver focussed” yet.
School of quick
Turns out it is also the fastest Vantage in its 74-year history too, blazing to 100 from a standstill in a claimed 3.5sec which is hasty for a rear-drive vehicle.
The time depends largely on how grippy the surface is. On one of our regular flat tracks we couldn’t better 4.2sec, miles off, and slithering down the road. But nek minit around the corner where it’s smoother, it records 3.52sec, our best on the day.
But there was better to come, whistling up a 1.67sec 80-120 overtake. Only special cars stop the clock at under 2sec, possibly 20 have managed in as many years. So this is sick-quick. But there’s also a side to this sporty two-seater that makes it more of an everyday car, providing you’re flexible enough to enter and exit this low flyer. And that’s the astounding torque it produces way down low in the rev range.
Oozing around town it upshifts way before 2000rpm in the everyday Sport mode (no Normal here because that would be too mundane). And it has all sorts of zones in between this and its topend rush of acceleration. It just builds progressively, the proper muscle kicking in at around 2000rpm. So even just using
3000-4000rpm, you have to be a little circumspect where you do this. hat low-end stomp also impacts on fuel consumption. From cold it quickly eased back from high 20s, and after a reset on the motorway the computer suggested 8L/100km at a constant 100.
Sure, it climbed some during our day but it never rose beyond 14.5L/100km, even after performance testing and to and fro driving for the camera.
Special stoppers
I shouldn’t have been surprised by the enormous carbon ceramic brakes but they are OMG amazing. Evidently the steel jobbies
are very good too, but these are nek level.
And probably one of the optional items you really should consider, especially if you’re contemplating track days. Which you really should, given how brilliantly it goes on road.
There is simply an unending amount of stopping power here and a delicious feel at the pedal. They even seem to work well around town, and directly from cold. Clearly carbon ceramics ain’t what they used to be.
We haven’t really touched on the best bit yet either. This unwinds curling roads like you’d not believe. The front end is just stuck
like it’s glued to a line, and the steering is beautifully weighted, quick on the turn.
You know the balance is right when pushing hard it refuses to squeal or run wide, all at gobsmacking corner speeds. Torque vectoring helps.
It may be the entry-level Aston but it’s the best handling model I’ve ever driven from the brand. Even the ride is sufficiently absorbent in the everyday Sport mode that it doesn’t jiggle your fillings out. So, best Aston yet?
Maybe, though we haven’t driven Valkyrie yet. That’s a joke by the way. If this isn’t quite enough for you, there’s always the GT3 variant… Model
Aston Martin Vantage
$375,000
3998cc / V8 / T / DI
489kW@6000rpm
800Nm@2000-4000rpm
8-speed auto / RWD
12.1L/100km
274g/km
3.52sec
1.68sec (47.51m)
33.60m
Stability systems
Safety
Luggage Capacity
Tyre Size
Fuel Capacity
Service intervals
Warranty
ANCAP
ABS, ESP, TV AEB, ACC, BSM, LDW, RCTA, ALK, AHB
350L f-275/35R21 r-325/30R21 73L
12 months/16,000kms
3 years/unlimited km
Not rated
1745kg (claimed)
Charging ahead
Levi Salesa’s journey into the automotive industry began when he was just 16 years old, working part-time at a small garage on weekends and during school breaks. “I’ve always been interested in cars,” Levi shares. “I started working, and I’ve loved it ever since.”
Now 24, he's still just as passionate about it today. For the past four years, he’s been working at Subtech Subaru in Auckland, where he completed his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering through MITO. Despite his years of experience, Levi remains eager to learn. “My favourite part of the job is still learning,” he says. “Even though I’ve been here for a while, there’s always something to learn, especially with the newer vehicles. It’s a different playing field with new equipment.”
Levi’s commitment to his career took a significant step forward when he was awarded a MITO and Inspiring Futures Foundation scholarship to complete MITO’s
New Zealand Certificate in Electric Vehicle Automotive Engineering (Level 5). “I was quite surprised when I got the scholarship,” Levi admits. “I just filled out the paperwork and sent it off. I didn’t expect much, but it’s really exciting because it’s the future of the industry.”
The scholarship has provided him with the opportunity to expand his skills and knowledge needed to excel in an evolving industry.
“It’s definitely going to open more doors,” he says. “A lot of my mates in the industry are hesitant about stepping into the EV world, but I think getting in early will be helpful in the future if I want to try something new.”
Levi’s enthusiasm for learning extends to the EV programme, where he’s been impressed by the support he’s received. “The teachers are really good. When I started, I didn’t know much at all about how EVs run, but they’ve answered all my questions and helped me step by step,” he explains. “I’ve learned so much, like the different categories of charging systems. I used to think
you just plug the car in to charge it, but it’s way more complex than that.”
The support from MITO has been instrumental in Levi’s success.
“They’ve been really cool, even before I started the EV training,”
Levi says. “My MITO Training Advisor, Phil, checks in every couple of months to see how I’m doing. He’s always there if I have questions, and that’s been really helpful.”
Levi’s advice to those just starting out in their careers is simple but powerful: “Get all the information you can from the older techs. They’ve been mentoring me a lot, and that’s been invaluable. If you’re unsure about something, just be honest and ask questions. That’s how I’ve learned the most—by asking questions.”
As for the future, Levi is keeping an open mind. “It’s an interesting time in the industry because there’s so much uncertainty about what’s next. Some people say EVs are the future, others say something else. I just want to keep learning and adapting to whatever comes next.”
Manfeild Mania for members
The MTA is excited to invite all members to our first ever MTA Manfeild Mania event in May 2025 — an interactive weekend for you, your family and your employees.
Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon boasts the longest motor racing course with unimpeded views in the Southern Hemisphere — what better place to host a members' event!
Your MTA Manfeild Mania experience begins at a welcome reception in Palmerston North on Friday May 9th in the evening.
Saturday, head to Manfeild and enjoy everything from rides in race cars, cruise sessions, a 'Show and Shine' event, drift demos and a fun
zone for all ages. Lunch in a suite overlooking the circuit is included.
For the 'Show and Shine' we want members to bring their cars, motorbikes and trucks (any pride and joy) to put on display. You may get to do a cruise session around the circuit too! There’ll be some epic prizes for the show and shine — all decided by people’s choice voting.
Then join us on Saturday night for a delightful evening at Orlando Country Club, on the outskirts of Palmerston North. This evening includes a keynote speaker who’ll share their inspiring story from rags to riches in the automotive sector, an exquisite meal as prize presentations from the Show and Shine.
To register for any of the MTA Manfeild Mania activities, search for 'national' events on the website event hub and keep an eye out for future emails.
For those members keen to attend and travelling from further afield, the MTA has arranged some discounted accommodation options just for you. These details will be released soon.
Organisers are also calling for any MTA member who has a Motorsport NZ homologated race car to get in touch if they’re happy to provide rides on the Saturday. Get in touch with Regional Coordinator Natalie Campbell to find out more about this –natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz
Photo Credit: Jarrod Carruthers
Towing the line
Recently, we were asked about the legality of bolt-on towing/recovery points on modern utes and fourwheel drive vehicles. Among the other components that make up the ‘my first 4WD’ starter kit of items fitted to most mall crawlers (including snorkel, winch, and bull bar with bonus high-intensity spotlights for blinding pensioners whilst tailgating), these brightlycoloured recovery points have become popular amongst the chunky tyre brigade – just in case there’s a particularly treacherous puddle in the Maccas carpark they need rescuing from. However, these towing/recovery points usually don’t meet NZ requirements for frontal impact, as their mounting location means they normally span across the crumple zones that the vehicle manufacturer engineered into the chassis. This is problem, because the recovery points are normally constructed from at least 10mm steel plate, and are designed specifically not to bend. By bolting them across a section of chassis the vehicle manufacturer intends to deform in a controlled and precise manner, this changes the front structure of the vehicle drastically. With these recovery
points fitted, there is no guarantee that in a crash, the airbags and other occupant safety systems will operate as the vehicle manufacturer intended.
NZTA have recently clarified their stance on modifications that affect a vehicle’s frontal impact occupant protection systems. The Frontal Impact Rule came into force in 2002, and applies to pretty much all classes of four-wheeled vehicles and most motorcycles. While it goes on to specify which vehicles must meet an approved Frontal Impact Standard (which, while often conflated, is separate to the Rule), all vehicles within the scope of the Rule must meet the General Safety Requirements (GSRs). This says that ‘the performance of a motor vehicle in relation to protecting occupants in a frontal impact collision must not be reduced below a safe tolerance of its state when manufactured or modified, by any factors, including (…) the fitting of additional equipment (…)’. The vehicles that these recovery points are fitted to are usually NA-class, or MC-class with a GVM over 2500kgs, so don’t need to meet an approved Frontal Impact Standard. NZTA have reiterated that the Rule
applies to all vehicles though, and all vehicles need to meet the GSR in the Rule. What this means is that for example, if an NA-class vehicle has a bull bar, but the vehicle is fitted with a frontal impact SRS, then unless the bull bar is an unmodified airbag compliant bull bar, it cannot be accepted for a Warrant of Fitness, or LVV certified. The same logic applies for these bolton towing/recovery points – even if the vehicle they are fitted to is not required to meet a Frontal Impact Standard, if they affect the operation of the vehicle’s SRS, they aren’t acceptable. Bridging the vehicle’s crumple zones with hefty steel plates would almost certainly reduce the performance of that crumple zone below a safe tolerance.
Normally, these towing/recovery points require drilling into the chassis rail as part of their fitment, so they are tipped into requiring LVV certification (because of the VIRM clause around weakening the vehicle structure by drilling). Even if they bolted to OE points, technically there isn’t any allowance for this type of towing/recovery point in the VIRM Threshold either (unless you were to squint and call it an A-frame mount) – because they alter the vehicle structure, and aren’t within Threshold, they require LVV certification. Part of the LVV Certifier’s assessment of them will
include the effects they have on the vehicle’s frontal impact abilities, and quite often, these simply cannot be LVV certified. The LVV Frontal Impact Standard precludes any modifications to any energy-absorbing parts of the vehicle structure for any vehicle younger than 14 years old.
Much like a bull bar, the only possibility for a towing/ recovery point to meet requirements is if it has proof it doesn’t alter the vehicle’s frontal impact occupant protection systems (i.e., it is ‘airbag compliant’). Note that while some towing/recovery points are advertised as being ‘ADR compliant’, this isn’t enough – there are different Australian Design Rules for many aspects of vehicle design. Being ‘ADR compliant’ is also sometimes a misnomer – a component may meet ADR requirements for a specific aspect of its design (for instance, a towing/recovery point may meet specific ADR requirements for external projections and pedestrian safety, hence the claim that it’s ‘ADR compliant’). However, this does not mean the component is ‘ADR compliant’ in its entirety. While it may meet external projection requirements, that same towing/recovery point may not meet ADR requirements for frontal impact.
If you want your staff to look clean and professional and save your company money with the least amount of hassle, talk to Apparelmaster. We buy any kind of workwear and rent it back to you, professionally launder and repair it and make sure you get the right gear where and when you need it.
If you want your staff to look clean and professional and save your company money with the least amount of hassle, talk to Apparelmaster. We buy any kind of workwear and rent it back to you, professionally launder and repair it and make sure you get the right gear where and when you need it.
Know common workshop hazards and SOPs
By Tony Hutchinson, HSE Connect CEO.
Probably more than most occupations, those of us working in motor workshops must deal with a rolling maul of hazards, risks, and dangers. Recently I went into some detail on the specific hazard of a vehicle rolling and how your instincts could get you into trouble. There are plenty of other hazards we face, and I’d like to call attention to some of the ones you’ll encounter daily so you can reduce the risk of something going wrong for you and your workmates - and avoid the unwanted attention of WorkSafe.
A big part of avoiding danger is adhering to Safe Operating Procedures (SOP). These, along with a Common Hazard Register, should be part and parcel of every motor workshop.
responsible Action to be taken
But crucially, these shouldn’t be ‘dead’ documents, but active reference points used regularly, routinely revised, and reviewed. You know, in those Toolbox Talks I’m always going on about –but seriously, these gatherings are regular opportunities for improvement, reviewing good practice, and yes, SOPs.
Plenty of tools = plenty of hazards
Coming back to tools, let’s start by bearing in mind that using a tool incorrectly is in itself hazardous. Tools like angle grinders, welders, drills/drill presses, electric or oxy-fuel welders all come with some screamingly obvious hazards and also some less apparent ones.
For example, most will recognise the blue flame at the business end of an oxy-acetylene welder as dangerous. But there’s a lot more to it, which is why there is a SOP for this tool, as well as many others in the workshop.
Have you and your co-workers reviewed those SOPs?
steadily become one where one or more members haven’t. You can see how what they call ‘institutional knowledge’ can quickly disappear – suddenly you have a man on the blowtorch who hasn’t received instruction on its safe use.
Tony’s top tips
• Be sure to have and maintain a Common Hazards Register (an example is provided on the opposite page.
HSE Connect on 022 643 1832
Where the Common Hazard Register deals with hazards and risks you’ll find in any workshop – or, for that matter, any workplace – SOPs tend to be tool- or process-specific. Common hazards include things like slippery surfaces, manual handling of heavy items/loads, and obstructions which could cause tripping. You may remember we have addressed hazards and risks in a previous edition of Radiator (May 2023).
WorkSafe defines SOPs as a stepby-step process of how to accomplish a quality, or safety outcome for the task in hand. It is, in many respects, like a task instruction and can include the quality, safety, and policy requirements, as well as images and photos for guidance to understand the requirements of a task or job and the tool used to get that job done. Which, of course, begs the question. Does your workshop have these SOPs, and if so, how often have they come out of the file or folder in the back office? Be honest – chances are it wasn’t in recent memory. What can and does happen is that we start out with a hiss and a roar with the H&S at the beginning of the year. But we’re all busy and becoming overwhelmed with work, life, and everything else can result in a decay of attention and rigour on our safety standards and processes.
New people might join, so a team which has read all the SOPs can
• Check and secure SOPs for every power tool in the workshop for which SOPs are available (HSE Connect can help here, with a full library of SOPs).
• Make the SOPs ‘living documents’ by regularly referring to them in Toolbox Talks, new staff member inductions, or as discussion points.
• Revise, revisit, repeat. Repetition works and helps drive out any bad/dangerous habits.
• Keep an eye on one another. If you see something unsafe, SPEAK OUT before an incident occurs.
Peace of mind, thanks to HSE Connect.
Built specifically with WorkSafe in mind, HSE Connect’s easy-to-use software already provides peace of mind to hundreds of MTA members. Members get discounted pricing and free set-up. Find out more here: www.hseconnect.co/mta or call HSE Connect on 022 643 1832
Common Workshop Hazards
New steps to tackle crime
I’m writing to update you on MTA’s submission to the Justice Select Committee on the Sentencing (Reform) Amendment Bill. This submission is part of our broader advocacy efforts to tackle pressing issues in the law and order space, following our recent 10-point action plan to tackle retail crime, our correspondence with Ministers, and coverage in the media.
Retail crime is an issue we take extremely seriously, especially given the profound impact it has on our fuel retailers. MTA represents more than 900 of New Zealand’s 1250 service stations, many of which are independently owned and operated. Over the past five years, these service stations have witnessed an alarming rise in crime. Violent aggravated robberies and ram raids have become everyday risks, putting the lives of retail workers in jeopardy.
In the first six months of this year alone, New Zealand Police recorded an unacceptable 62 aggravated robberies at service stations – one every three days.
We support the Sentencing (Reform) Amendment Bill, which acknowledges the rising trend of recording or livestreaming offences. This bill aims to offer greater protection for vulnerable retail workers by recognising these acts as aggravating factors. However, we have a few recommendations to further strengthen the proposed legislation.
James.mcdowall@mta.org.nz
Social media
The bill will make livestreaming and posting footage online aggravating factors during sentencing. We agree that the glorification of criminal acts on social media contributes significantly to youth offending. However, MTA believes courts should specifically disqualify offenders from being able to use remorse as a mitigating factor – a sentencing discount – if they have bragged about their crimes online. This approach has been considered in other jurisdictions like Australia and the United States, where the act of boasting about criminal behaviour is seen as contradictory to genuine remorse.
MTA supports the bill's recognition that offences against workers in vulnerable positions should be treated as aggravating factors. However, we believe this protection should extend to all retail workers, including those at service stations who often work alone or in skeleton crews, especially at night.
Our sector has experienced an 86% increase in retail crime over the past five years, and a recent survey revealed that over 20% of MTA service stations have been victims of aggravated robbery in the last year. This level of violence and intimidation is unacceptable and must be addressed.
Comprehensive protection
In places like the United Kingdom and Western Australia, they have already implemented specific protections for retail workers. The UK introduced a new offence for assaulting retail workers this year after recognising that an aggravating factor alone was insufficient.
We urge the Government to amend the bill to recognise that all retail workers can be vulnerable. The protection shouldn't be limited to those working alone. For instance, a parent and child working together wouldn't benefit from the deterrent measures in this bill as it stands.
While a specific criminal offence for offending against retail workers may not fall within the scope of this bill, recognising these offences as aggravating factors is a step in the right direction.
We support the Government’s greater focus on tackling retail crime and support the bill’s potential to deter crime against vulnerable retail workers. However, we urge the Government to consider our recommendations to ensure the bill provides effective deterrents and comprehensive protections for hardworking Kiwis at risk.
Thank you for your continued support. We recognise the hardships many of you face, and we are committed to advocating for better protections and a safer environment for all our members.
An agreeable outcome
Communication in a reasonable fashion was the key to an agreeable outcome when this MTA member was challenged on a WoF given on a 2006 Fiat Ducato 2.3 Campervan with a rusty front crossmember.
Our member issued the WOF on 6 June 2024 and the vehicle was then sold to another party.Not long after the sale, our member received a blunt email from the third party with supporting photos of a rusty front crossmember.
An offer was made by our member to inspect the vehicle as it was not far away. This was the right thing to do but was meet with a refusal and the third party stating they were going to replace the part themselves, while still pushing our member to make amends.
Key to the discussion was that a WOF is a non-invasive safety inspection of a vehicle at a particular point in time and cannot be taken as a representation of the general condition of the vehicle, or that a vehicle is fit for any particular purpose. There were a few more emails backwards and forwards that signalled an agreeable outcome was not on the table. The third party went ahead and replaced the crossmember, therefore taking control of the repair away from our member.
Bear in mind that the member has
roy.hoverd@mta.org.nz
the first right to remedy under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
As this is also a compliance issue, NZTA would take an interest in this; they would inspect the vehicle and review the issuing agent. As the repair had already been undertaken, NZTA did not investigate – that boat had sailed.
As it turns out, the third party is also an MTA member; they contacted us and eventually the Mediation Team spoke to both parties and took the heat out of the situation, discussing the pros and cons around the dispute.
Key points
• Did the AVI miss the crossmember corrosion in the inspection, having foreknowledge of the inspection sheet from 2021 found in the glove box that noted rust in the cross member?
• Did the buyer carry out due diligence during the purchase process?
• Can they meet halfway on the cost as there is doubt around the inspection?
The buyer dropped the ball by taking the self-help remedy. It’s a red card from us when this occurs as our two members got their backs up unnecessarily over this. Had our member been approached in a kindly manner, I have no doubt this would have
been resolved amicably by both parties.
As it turned out, this is exactly how it ended; they both got together, inspected the vehicle (after the repair) and agreed to put it all down to experience.
Our member has lodged an improvement and complaints card in-house and with NZTA. This was a great result and we were pleased they both benefited from our input.
Summary
Should you find a fault for whatever reason, communicate with the other person in a reasonable fashion; luckily, both members were understanding in this instance. This is not always the case with some members of the public, who have high expectations and entitlement.
Being forewarned is forearmed, and if you are not sure about any challenge, call the Mediation Team on 0508 682 633, or fill out our web-based form to discuss your particular situation.
yulene.knight@mta.org.nz prabha.raman@mta.org.nz
Managing long-term absence
While there is no legal definition of long-term absence, any absence of your employee for more than a few weeks is long term. This length of absence can have major cost implications on the employer, especially with reference to annual leave.
Keeping jobs open
Employers are not legally required to retain an employee who cannot perform their duties due to illness or injury and must determine a reasonable length of time to keep a role open and follow a fair process to decide to let an employee go. Although not prescribed by law, it is common practice to review the feasibility of keeping a role open after 12 weeks of continuous absence.
Where an employee has suffered a work-related injury or illness, employers have an obligation under the Accident Compensation Act 2001 to help with workrelated (vocational) rehabilitation.
Enabling clause
An enabling clause in employment agreements is useful for setting the terms and conditions related to long-term absence issues. It must define a “reasonable” timeframe and outline the process to be followed under such circumstances.
A comprehensive leave policy can also be very helpful in providing guidance to employees and employers. It can outline types of leave, processes and options
when an employee may need to take leave for personal emergencies, contacts, and communication channels.
Communication
It is important to keep in touch with your employee and communicate effectively with them. An employee can feel stressed about being unable to work and worried about what will happen to them financially if they lose their job.
As an employer, you must work with them in a positive and supportive manner to gather information about how long they are going to be away from work and when they will be able to return to work.
An employee also has the obligation to be communicative with their employer and provide them with adequate information about their recovery, including medical certificates for their absence.
Ending the employment relationship
Before proposing to end the employment relationship, the employer must reasonably believe that the employee can no longer do their job or return to work within a reasonable timeframe to resume their normal duties.
This may require an investigation into the employee’s medical situation, and this is not a disciplinary procedure.
The employer must consider the following factors:
• Terms and conditions contained in the employment agreement.
• Consultation with the employee, seeking their written consent to access their medical information pertaining to the injury or illness in question.
• Probability of a full recovery, timeframe and rehabilitation support (workplace injury).
• Any alternative to termination, including change in hours, type of work, duties etc.
Medical retirement
This is a dignified way of parting ways with the employee, allowing employer and employee to mutually agree to retiring on medical grounds.
Employers must propose medical retirement to the employee, stating reasons, and engage with them to answer any questions or provide clarification. The agreement to medical retirement must be in writing, and the employee’s exit from the organisation is recorded as a resignation on medical grounds.
Dismissal for medical incapacity
Where the employee does not agree to medical retirement, the employer may dismiss them for medical
incapacity following a fair process.
To dismiss on medical grounds, the employer must follow a well-defined process, which involves exchange of information and holding several meetings with the employee. Both parties must have the opportunity to present evidence and provide feedback. All possible alternatives must be considered before deciding to dismiss.
Support
Medical issues and their impacts on employment can be a very challenging time for both employees and employers.
Free and confidential counselling is available to all MTA members and their staff via Organisational Counselling Programmes (OCP). They must let OCP know that they are an MTA member when making an appointment.
OCP contact details are 0800 377 990 and www. ocp.co.nz.
MTA HR can help you manage long-term absence issues and can be contacted on 0800 00 11 44 or via email hr@mta.org.nz.
Upskilling ICE for future tech
As the automotive industry undergoes a transformation driven by the rise of electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), the need to upskill traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) mechanics has never been more critical. This shift is not just about keeping up with technological advancements, it represents an essential step for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry, generating new revenue streams and supporting diversity within the workforce.
The automotive industry has a storied history, but one thing is clear: the future is electric. For decades, ICE mechanics have been the backbone of the industry, bringing their expertise to the servicing and repair of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles. However, the complexity of EV and PHEV systems demands new skills and knowledge.
While traditional repairs such as oil changes and engine maintenance may become less frequent, EVs bring their own set of requirements. Software updates, battery diagnostics and electrical repairs will form the core of future service offerings. Shops that embrace this shift early will be able to capture new customers, build a loyal client base, and ultimately generate cash flow.
Loretta.thompson@mta.org.nz
The skills required to work on electric vehicles differ substantially from those used for traditional ICE vehicles. EVs and PHEVs rely on complex electrical systems, batteries, and power electronics that require a different approach to diagnostics and repair. The days of the standard engine tune-up are being replaced by software updates, battery management, and high-voltage electrical systems.
Future proofing
With the government and industry focus on decarbonising the transport sector, automotive businesses must future-proof themselves by ensuring their workforces are equipped to meet the needs of the modern vehicle fleet. This is where structured training and development programmes come into play.
As we focus on the technical aspect of upskilling, it’s essential to think beyond just mechanics.
The automotive industry must also consider diversity within its workforce by ensuring that training programmes are inclusive and open doors for underrepresented groups, including women and people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, to enter and thrive in what has traditionally been a maledominated industry.
Training for EV and PHEV upskilling needs to go beyond technical
know-how. With the high-voltage systems present in electric vehicles, health and safety must be a top priority. This is where Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) becomes critical.
MTA Sector Manager Repairer and Environmental, Glen McGarry, and a trusted advisory group created the EV SOPs document developed by the automotive industry for the automotive industry, which outlines the best practices for safely working with highvoltage systems. Without proper safety training, there are real risks involved, including electrical shocks, fires and worse case, death.
The SOPS document outlines in detail four tiers of competency and recommends MTA-endorsed training to support technician safety. For more information on the MTA EV SOPs document and training, please visit the MTA Toolbox.
The transition from ICE vehicles to EVs and PHEVs is not just a technological shift, it’s a cultural and operational evolution. Upskilling mechanics to work on electric vehicles is an investment in the future of the industry, offering opportunities for cash generation and growth, while ensuring that the workforce is inclusive and equipped to handle the next generation of vehicles.
New VIC good to go
By the time this month’s issue of Radiator is in the hands of our MTA members, the new NZTA Vehicle Inspection and Certification (VIC) system will have been rolled out to replace WoF Online to the majority of our members.
We have undertaken development work with early adopters who we brought in over the last few weeks to fine tune this online tool, and now is the time for members to take on the new system, a modern, more intuitive, and easier to use application.
WoF Online.
This is the start of modernising the inspection process, and digital check sheet integration is on the road map for future developments.
MTA has been talking with other groups such as LVVTA and Motorsport NZ (MNZ), discussing how they can also be integrated with VIC in the future.
While we have seen some resistance to the RealMe login, we want to make everyone aware that you do not require a verified RealMe, only the basic account. If you get to the RealMe page advising the account is not verified, you can stop there.
This is a direct replacement for WoF Online and is not a digital style check sheet; users will enter the inspection results into the VIC system as they currently do with
To help our members get onto VIC with minimal disruption, we have a set up a page on the MTA Toolbox with all the information needed for members to get to grips with the new system – from webinar recordings between MTA and NZTA to RealMe login and a full FAQ page for your viewing.
It isn’t a difficult process and all the information and the steps needed to login into the VIC system and navigate are available on the guides. Once you have set it up for the first time, you just log in with your RealMe and you are good to go.
Logging in with RealMe and access portal (AP) –for the first time
Have a look at the Toolbox and just search VIC. You can find information from NZTA on https:// vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/vic
Logging in with RealMe and access portal (AP) –for the first time
Participation and the CRA/MTA
Open CoPilot AI defines an association as a group of persons who share common interests or a common purpose and who are organized with varying degrees of formality. The CRA and MTA follow this definition, although how organised we are might generate debate.
Associations can offer a wide range of benefits to people, such as:
1. Networking Opportunities:
Associations provide a platform for individuals to connect with others in their fields or with similar interests, fostering professional and personal relationships.
2. Professional Development: Associations offer training, workshops and seminars that help members enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends.
3. Advocacy and Representation: Associations advocate for the interests of their members, representing them in discussions with policymakers, regulators and other stakeholders.
4. Access to Resources: Members can gain access to exclusive resources such as research papers, industry reports and best practice guidelines.
5. Community and Support: Being part of an association can create a sense of belonging and provide emotional and professional support through shared experiences and challenges; the Cyclone Gabriel response is a
MVR reports due
recent example of this.
6. Career Advancement:
Membership in an association can enhance a person’s resume, demonstrating commitment to their field and potentially opening doors to new opportunities.
7. Discounts and Perks: Associations can offer discounts on products, services and events, which can be a financial benefit to members.
Missing from the above is what it takes to deliver these benefits to people, which is active participation. While we are all here voluntarily (I hope), receiving the benefits of being in an association requires member input. Industry surveys are a good example; there often seems to be a survey of some sort out or about to be released. Participating in these surveys provides real data that can be used to provide all the benefits 1 to 5 listed above. Your business benefits directly from survey data as it provides data reflecting what is actually happening in the industry and enabling you to use accurate data to decide what you can do about it.
Associations are subject to the Pareto Principle, which states that 80 percent of outcomes come from 20 percent of causes, or 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work!
My point is that what people get out of the association matches with how much they participate and that in turn decides how successful the association is.
When talking to potential members about what the CRA/MTA offer, its important to emphasise that while you can be a passive member getting some of what the association can offer, to get the full benefit members need to be active in the association, which increases the association’s value and ability to influence policymakers, regulators and stake holders.
Motivation in the CRA
The CRA has a C-Car Points scheme where members are expected to earn a set number of C-Car points per year. As part of the criteria for a Licensed Collision Repairer (LCR), for example, you are required to attain 10 points per calendar year; for the Panel beating/Spray painting category, you are required to attain six points per calendar year.
Earning points comes from participating in various activities such as road shows, I-Car training courses, MITO microcredential training, first aid training courses, and other training courses named on the CRA website. A C-Car Points Committee exists to consider if development or programmes of value can be awarded points in acknowledgement of the value they provide in upskilling participants.
C-Car Points has been successful in the CRA in motivating people to participate more in the association and attend personal and professional development that upskills individuals; this, in turn, benefits the CRA, member businesses, individuals, and the collision repair industry overall.
For MTA service station members who are accessing the Motor Vehicle Register (MVR), the annual report is due with the S241 team at NZTA from 1 November 2024. The annual report will cover any MVR enquiries made between 1 November 2023 and 31 October 2024.
The MVR annual report is to be sent to S241@nzta.govt.nz and the annual reporting requirements are found in the 2022 Gazette notice.
MTA is aware of concerns around the reporting system and to address the problem MTA needs feedback from MTA service station members who are using the MVR in writing.
The information members supply will support the revision of the terms of service for the MVR and make them fit for purpose for businesses and the NZTA.
Reporting
Every 12 months the user must provide NZTA with a report containing:
• evidence that clauses 11 to 16 have been complied with; and
• a record of staff training that has taken place in accordance with the requirements in clauses 9 and 10 over the last 12-month reporting period; and all actions taken in relation to all instances, or suspected instances, of unauthorised access over the last 12-month
Mathew.alderdice@mta.org.nz
reporting period.
Last year NZTA was lenient as it was the first time MVR annual reports were required, but this year NZTA expects MVR users to be submitting their reports in a timely manner.
Members need to be aware if they are not compliant with the requirement, NZTA can revoke their access to the MVR.
If a business does have its MVR access revoked, the business will be able to reapply as a standalone applicant. This process can take up to eight weeks from the time of receiving a completed application and a further 14-plus days for consultation and approval.
Your previous history of noncompliance is also taken into
consideration.
MVR terms of service
MTA’s Head of Advocacy James McDowall is in discussions with the senior leadership at NZTA regarding the MVR and its current terms of service. The Minister of Transport is aware of the situation and has requested that NZTA engages with industry to work through the issues.
Important information for MTA service station members using the MVR can be found in the MTA Toolbox under ‘Sectors’.
Please email your feedback to mathew.alderdice@mta.org.nz
MTA needs member feedback in writing to take to the meetings with NZTA leadership.
stewart@collisionrepair.co.nz
From surviving to thriving
As we all know, the tyres went flat and the motor industry stalled during the current economic downturn, with low sales, a slump in servicing and some experienced a reduction in part sales.
But the hardy bunch of people that make up this part of the industry are resilient. Most have faith that it will bounce back again – as interest rates fall and household income improves, so will the cash flow into our sector.
At MTA we didn’t wait, we pumped up the tyres, by hand, and put the wheels in motion.
To support our members we started on a journey back in July during what has been described by most as “survive to 2025”. Others with more colourful words described it as essentially “the drought of all droughts” or “the worst I have ever seen”.
We set about planning a series of car-trader-focused articles in the ‘Drive to thrive’ section on the MTA’s membership website and MTA’s Radiator magazine.
Each article contained some key tips and essential information for our dealer members to go from survive to thrive.
Over an eight-week period, we put the pedal to the metal, chucked it into overdrive and smoked the tyres with content.
This included how to manage your creditors, boost your brand and
Larry.fallowfield@mta.org.nz
meet customer needs; an article on people, power and profitability, and assessing and controlling margins.
We also covered developing highperforming teams, how servicing savvy can pay off, and navigating your business through an economic downturn.
The content was designed to be a quick, easy guide and a refresher because, in times of stress, sometimes our logic goes out the window.
When that happens, having a chance to come in for a pit shop, redeveloping some fundamentals or even reigniting one’s spark plugs can have very positive effects.
That’s because, believe it or not, these challenging times also provide an opportunity to build your business and come out the other side even stronger.
As one of our members recently said, “calm seas never make a skillful sailor”.
When I ask business owners what their biggest assets are, I normally get the usual answers, which include the likes of “my location”, “my signage”, “my stock”, and so on.
However, every now and then someone will nail it by replying, “My employees are my most important asset.”
Below are some extracts from our high-performing sales team article in which we spoke about two types of
New vehicles
customers: the internal customer and an external customer.
“When you treat each other as a customer, you create a great business culture that’s truly customercentric.
“Whether internal or external customers, you need to establish trust by being honest, transparent and reliable, which comes by listening to each other.”
Here are some other points to consider:
• Everyone in your business is either selling or supporting sales.
• Your grooming team is preparing vehicles that your sales personnel know are ready and presentable.
• Your office and administrative staff support sales with marketing or finance.
• Your service team reinforces sales with great back-up and support.
Once everyone truly believes that everyone is selling and everyone is supporting each other, then the trust will help keep your business on track.
Have they learnt the traits of a skillful sailor while the sea has been rough?
As with every downturn, there’s a growth period.
The question is, are you and your team ready to capitalise on what is around the corner?
The new passenger and light commercial vehicle market in October saw a small boost again, finishing only 74 units behind January 2024, the largest trading month of the year so far. The month was up 6.7 percent on last month and down 2.9 percent on October 2023. The combined sector saw 12,568 registrations but was still down almost 15 percent year-to-date. October 2024 was the largest trading month for new passenger vehicle registrations, with 9,504 registrations, up 916 units on September 2024 or a 10.7 percent increase. The month was down 5.5 percent or 551 units on Oct
New Vehicle Market Passenger and Commercial - October 2024
2023 and was still behind by a massive 19,256 units or 21 percent versus the same 10-month period last year.
New commercial registrations were down 123 units on Sept 2024 or down by nearly 4 percent with 3,064 registrations, but was up 6 percent or 174 units on Oct 2023. YTD the sector was up 774 units or 2.3 percent.
Brand and model performance
Honda, with 318 unit registrations, pushed its way into the top 10 brands for October, while Toyota increased by 218 units over September 2024 to hold the top spot again at 33.2 percent of the month’s registrations.
The top 10 brands increased registrations by 674 units, up nearly 7 percent on September 2024, while Ford, Mitsubishi and Kia held onto second, third and fourth positions again this month.
In the top 15 models, the Toyota Rav4, Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux all held the top three places again in October. The Rav4 and HiLux increased registrations over last month by 182 and 28 units respectively, while the Ranger dropped from last month’s 928 units down 26.8 percent with 732 unit registrations. Mazda CX5, Toyota Corolla Cross and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van made it into the top 15 models at the expense of the Toyota Yaris Cross, Nissan Leaf and Ford Escape.
New Vehicle Motive Power
Motorcycles
The used import passenger and light commercial vehicle market in October saw a 104-registrations increase over September 2024, albeit still making it the second-lowest trading month in 2024.
Ten months gone and the sector dropped 2,383 on October 2023 and was down 9,122 registrations or 9.3 percent behind the same 10-month period last year.
Passenger vehicles in October 2024 saw a drop of 2,338 units on October 2023, albeit up 103 units on last month. The sector is still behind last year by 9,152 registrations and nearly 10 percent behind with 10 trading months gone in 2024.
The 444 light commercial unit registrations in October meant a one-unit increase on last month; the sector is up after 10 months trading by 30 registrations.
Brand and model performance
Toyota registrations totalling 2,890 in October is not a double up from last month, as the brand’s registration numbers were exactly the same as September 2024. The top eight this month all held the same spots last month, with five brands having a combined 150-registrations increase over last month. Mazda and Nissan saw a decrease in registrations for the month, down 41 and 11 units, respectively.
Aqua held its top spot again in October 2024, up three units to 757 from last month’s 754 units. Toyota Prius held second on the table with 467, down 56 units from last month’s 522 registrations, and Toyota Corolla held the third spot with a 21-unit increase from September 2024 to finish with 280 unit registrations.
Top 10 Used Import Brands
- October
Top 15 Used Import Models -
October 2024
The total new road motorcycle and scooter market had its second-best month, albeit even with January 2024 and behind 36 units on the year’s monthly high of February 2024’s 798 registrations. In 2024’s 10 trading months, the sector is down 6.2 percent or 432 units. October 2024 is up 2.4 percent on October 2023 and 22.3 percent up on September 2024, with an increase of 139 registrations.
Brand and model performance
In the new over-60cc motorcycle category, 665 registrations saw the sector up by 116 units on last month’s 549. In the scooter market there were 97 units registered, up 23 units on September 2024’s 74 registrations.
CFMOTO was the big mover, jumping up eight places and 53 units to power into second spot behind Yamaha, who took the chequered flag this month to be on top of the registration podium with 110 registrations, up 32 units on last month. Honda slipped back to number three for October 2024, down 11 units, to finish with 11.6 percent of the month’s top 10 registrations.
10 Motorcycle Registrations by Brand - October 2024
New Road Registered Motorcycles and scooters - October 2024
Nine of last month’s top 10 brands reappeared this month, with eight seeing a combined increase of 147 unit registrations, including BMW with 40 registrations riding back into the top 10 at the expense of Harley Davidson.
October 2024 saw CFMOTO replicate its July top spot with a 43-unit increase over last month’s eight units to finish the month with 51 registrations. The TNT Roma and the Forza Ciclone also had double-digit growth with 18- and 16-unit increases over last month’s registrations of nine and 10, re-
spectively.
October 2024 also saw 84 used imported motorcycles and 17 used scooters registered, combined to be down three units on last month’s 104 total units.
Models - October 2024
The 2024 Aprillia RS 457 saw 14 registrations in October 2024.
New Vehicle Motive Power
Situations vacant
- North Island
Automotive technician/mechanic
TARADALE
TM Autos require an experienced technician/ mechanic. We offer WoFs, services, pre-purchase checks in a well equipped workshop. WoF inspector authority preferred. Hold a full NZ drivers licence, and NZ residency. Email CV to: go.tmautos@gmail. com, or see Matt at TM Auto’s Taradale.
Automotive technician/WoF
TAUPO
Morrell Motors is an award winning, multi-franchise dealership requiring a qualified Automotive Technician to join our team. WoF certificate an advantage. Contact Mark Morrell, mark@morrellmotors.co.nz or phone 021 759 070.
Automotive technician/WoF
TAUPO
We are a busy workshop looking for a mechanic with recognised qualification in the automotive industry or acceptable time served. WoF certificate preferred. Must be a team player with excellent communication skills. Email CV to: office@mainlandeng.co.nz.
Automotive technician
NAPIER
T M Autos requires a technician. We are a small fully equipped workshop in the centre of Taradale. 3rd year apprentices will be considered. Must have Full NZ drivers licence. Contact: Matt at go.tmautos@gmail.com
Senior technician
TAURANGA
Herbs Vehicle Repairs are in search for a Senior Technician to join our team in our Central Tauranga based workshop. If you are capable of carrying out all types of mechanical repairs in our busy workshop that will keep our customers happy then we would like to hear from you. Contact us at herbstauranga@gmail.com or call 07 577 6535.
WoF Inspector/technician
TAURANGA
Earn more money then you are currently, come and work with us. We offer a family friendly environment. Email: tauranga@midasnz.co.nz. Phone: 021 102 9743
Mechanic
PAPAKURA
Small busy workshop looking for a mechanic with recognised qualification in the automotive industry or acceptable time served. WoF authority a bonus. Great communication skills and able to work under pressure and without supervision essential. Phone Graeme 09 299 9706.
Qualified mechanic
BIRKENHEAD
Busy workshop looking for a qualified mechanic to work on various makes of cars. Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 4:30pm. WoF authority preferred, but not essential. Email CV to birkenheadcarrepairs@xtra.co.nz
Automotive technician
HAVELOCK NORTH
We require a mechanic with WoF authority, not frightened of being busy and can work on a variety of vehicles, be reliable and trustworthy. Email: mcclintockmotors2014@gmail.com if interested along with your c.v.
Automotive technician
NEW PLYMOUTH
A great opportunity for a motivated, qualified technician to join our growing team. You will have a full drivers license, be trade and WoF certified or have the ability to obtain. No weekend work required. Phone: 06 758 3535.
Automotive technician/mechanic HASTINGS
We are Hastings’ VTNZ Certified Repairer. Full NZ drivers licence. NZ or equivalent automotive qualifications. (3rd year apprentices will be considered) Ability to work unsupervised. Email CV to admin@dcautocare.co.nz or contact Dylan 06 878 8138.
Mechanic/WoF Inspector
AUCKLAND
Busy Automotive workshop - Auckland Howick Central. Are seeking a mechanic with any experience. Contact Vlad: 021 261 2604 or email: info@somarservice.co.nz.
Diesel mechanic
WYNDHAM
Enthusiastic diesel injection technician with common rail experience to join a thriving rural garage with a fully equipped diesel fuel injection facility. Generous package to reflect experience, with possibility for future investment into the business. Email: redbarron222@gmail.com or phone 0272 417 614.
Auto technician/WoF Inspector
PAIHIA
Want a job by the sea? We're looking for a qualified auto technician. Great remuneration and relocation support. E: brian@boiam.co.nz or call 029 238 4088
Automotive technician PAHIATUA
We are looking for a motivated, qualified technician to join our small friendly team. A WoF authority is preferred but not essential. Contact Kevin at laskeysauto@xtra.co.nz. or 021 803 238.
Service advisor PAPAMOA
To ensure customers have an excellent experience, you’ll be a person who is passionate about providing outstanding customer service. Email your CV to jobs@coastalautos.nz.
Automotive tech/WoF Inspector
TE AROHA
Immediate start. Qualified or equivalent experience and WoF authority are required. We offer excellent working conditions. Please email CV to: service@summitmotors.co.nz or call Garth on 021 511 911.
Mechanic TAUPO AREA
Qualified mechanic required for busy workshop. Must be able to work unsupervised. A WoF authority is preferred but not essential. Great team with new, well-equipped workshop. Contact Heather on 027 244 2331.
Qualified Mechanic & WOF
Inspector – WANGANUI
Experienced mechanic wanted Full Time, Monday-Friday.Fun, friendly team working in busy Rural Garage on all automotive/ farm machinery & equipment.Contact Ross 06 342 7827 or email fordellgarage@inspire.net.nz
Qualified mechanic PORIRUA
Join our busy, friendly team at Porirua Motors. Contact Murray Phone: 04 237-4975 or directly to our workshop. Phone: 04 237-7979.
Mechanic
KUMEU, RODNEY
Small busy workshop seeking a mechanic with recognised qualification. WoF authority a bonus. Great communication skills and ability to work under pressure. Email Mike: admin@ manukaautomotive.co.nz.
Mechanic/WoF inspector –
KAIKOHE
Looking for a qualified automotive technician with WoF authority servicing and mechanical repairs. Clean New Zealand driver licence. Phone Richard 09 401 0155 or email CV to office@kaikohepanelbeaters.co.nz.
Automotive Technician
WHANGAREI
This is a wonderful opportunity if you are looking for a positive change in a rural environment surrounded by a wonderful community. Full-time or part-time considered. Please email chevaun@gasmgk.co.nz
Senior technician/ Foreman
PAPAMOA
Work, play and enjoy life on the beach. Relocation costs may be subsidised. For a qualified, 10yrs+ experienced mechanic, we offer competitive pay. Please send CV to jobs@coastalautos.nz.
Product Support Engineer
MASTERTON
AECS Equipment and Technical Support supplies equipment and support to the Automotive Industry across NZ. We are looking for someone to grow into our technical support team. The role could be based anywhere and includes travel and flexible hours. If you want to have passion for what you do, get in touch! For more information on the role please email jodie@aecs.co.nz
Automotive Technician
TE PUNA, TAURANGA
Seeking qualified mechanic for full time or job share role in busy, well established workshop. Email Adrian, service@tepunamotors.co.nz
Qualified Mechanic
TE AWAMUTU, WAIKATO
We are seeking a Qualified Mechanic with their current WOF certificate or be willing to complete a course to obtain WOF Certificate for our busy workshop in Te Awamutu. Hours of work 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday. The successful candidate will need to be reliable with a good work ethic and a can-do attitude, pay attention to detail and be fluent in English both written and oral.
A full NZ driving licence is essential along with a keen interest in the automotive trade. Please apply to: admin@totalautomotiveltd.co.nz
Qualified Mechanic
TE AROHA
We are seeking an automotive mechanic with their WOF ticket. Job includes, WOF tests, diagnostics, assessments, repairs and servicing on a variety of vehicles. Maintaining accurate records. Ability to work independently. Must be currently living in, and legally allowed to work in New Zealand. Must have a current and full NZ driver licence. Option to be on call out roster. Contact AgPlus Ltd 28-32 Lawrence Avenue, Te Aroha, 3320. admin@agplus.co.nz 07 8849901.
Situations vacant -South Island
Workshop Foreman
WINTON MOTORCYCLES
Are you passionate about motorcycles? Have a good mechanical aptitude? Then this is the job for you. Winton Motorcycles have an excellent opportunity for the right person to join our team as Workshop Foreman. Winton Motorcycles are a Family business with over 35 plus years' experience in the Motorcycle Industry
. We have a Multi franchise with a great parts department and a large supporting workshop and on farm back up service team. Experience is an advantage but is not necessary as full training will be given. If you're keen to take the next step in your career and looking for a new adventure in motorcycle with an innovative expanding business with huge potential, please send in, a CV and covering letter by the 14th October 2024. Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa. Job Type: Full time
Contact Phone: 021 064 7961
Email applicants should go to: office@wintonmotorcycles.co.nz
Automotive technician KAIAPOI
A busy general repair workshop looking for an experienced technician, with a current WoF certificate. Contact Jason on 027 918 8685.
Automotive technician SOUTH CANTERBURY
South Canterbury Honda service centre, after hours AA roadside contractor and carry out salvaging throughout the district. Must hold a full driver’s licence, have excellent diagnostic skills, time management and be a team player. Call Alan on 027 228 9584 or email alan@vaughanmotors.co.nz
Automotive electrician INVERCARGILL
We are looking for a qualified automotive electrician to join our small friendly team. 40 hour weeks. Email: service@dominionelectric.co.nz with CV.
WoF Inspector
NELSON
With over 30 years of experience, DS Auto Ltd is a trusted name in the Nelson automotive industry. We are seeking a qualified and diligent WoF Inspector to join our team. Competitive hourly rate offered. For further information please contact Derryl Henman 029 2412839 or email: office@dsauto.co.nz
Automotive technician DUNEDIN
Opportunity for a qualified/experienced Automotive Technician to join our friendly team in our busy Dunedin workshop. WoF Certified preferred but
would be happy to help you get qualified. Competitive remuneration. Contact Garry 0274 545 040 or email: bgapplegarth@xtra.co.nz.
Automotive technician
INVERCARGILL
New car dealership, Southland Vehicle Sales has a long term opportunity available for a qualified mechanic to join the team working on Kia and Hyundai vehicles. Please contact Mark Lee on 021 0832 3373 or mark@leerecruitment.co.nz.
Motorcycle technician
NELSON
We require a qualified technician to work us in our well-established Honda dealership. The successful applicant will need to be honest and hardworking, have a clean driver’s licence, attention to detail and the ability to work with our existing staff of nine. Contact Ian on 027 221 9162.
2x Qualified Auto-Electricians
TASMAN / NELSON
Our work is interesting and varied, servicing – retail, commercial and industrial clients. Work can be in our workshop or out in the field. Join our fun dynamic team! Contact Dawn on 027 432 3171 Email: sales@auto-electrical.co.nz
Auto Electrician MATAMATA
Onsite Auto Electrical Matamata are looking for a qualified auto electrician to join our team. We work on a variety of vehicles both in our workshop and onsite.Email office@onsiteae.co.nz or 078887579
Experienced mechanic
TAIHAPE
Please email us for further information bellsdieseltruckandtractor@gmail.com or call 027 332 2471
Workshop Manager
Job description: We are looking for an experienced workshop manager or someone ready to take the next step for a challenging full time role as Workshop Manager at CoolCar Air-Conditioning & Heating Hamilton. The suitable applicant will be a qualified auto electrician with experience working on a range of vehicle makes and models. Automotive air-conditioning experience is also a sought-after skill. In any case, support and training will be provided to the right applicant to fill the role. There is way more to automotive air-conditioning than just re-gassing and changing compressors and condensers, when done fully and the job has wide and varied scope. We have an increasing pool of caravan and motor home clients for fridge, roof top AC and other repairs. email cv and letter of interest to cath@coolcar.co.nz before 29 November. Contact: 021 409963.
Businesses for sale
Automotive Workshop/Service
Station – Tasman
Situated in Mapua in the middle of the Tasman Bay. Lots of opportunity to grow an already very busy business. All equipment has been replaced over recent years. 20k invested this year alone. AA roadside contractor. Owner prepared to assist with transition. For information call Chris 021 540 286 or email chris.perrysauto@gmail.com.
Automatic Transmission Specialist – NEW PLYMOUTH
Current owner for 40 years. A very successful family business now for sale so owners can retire. Automatic transmission repairs, Power steering and general servicing and repairs. Currently working out of two workshops with the capability of reducing to one. SAM computer system and Excel run through the accountant. All hoists, specialist tools. Grant: 0275 320 611 Email: automatics@xtra.co.nz
Automotive Workshop HASTINGS
Long established business since 1991 family owned and operated. 3-bay workshop all plant and equipment, SAM computer system, WoF, servicing, tyre sales and general repairs. Contact Clark 06 879 9487 email: clarkkelly@xtra.co.nz.
Automotive Workshop
NORTHSHORE (OREWA)
Retirement Looms. Prime location/Long established business. 3 Bays 2x2 post Hoist, 1x4 post Hoist Wofs,Tyres,Batteries. P: 09 4265783 M:021 022 45219. E: orewa.auto2016@gmail.com
Ludemann Motors WESTON, OAMARU Modern 360m2 building, fully kitted out. Quality offices, spacious workshop, lengthy and profitable business history. Located on the main street of Weston, top-notch work environment. Asking $265,000 Plus GST (if any). Business only. Contact Tony 027 435 5275 or Sam 022 062 9782.
Services
VIRM In-Service Certification Questionnaire pack
Training resource for prospective and current VIs. 14 questionnaires, marking and certificate of completion. Contact Fliss, Business Systems Sorted. Phone: 022 151 1243.
Simple, personalised H&S system, documented policies and procedures, hazsub inventories and office optimisation service - clearing the clutter! Contact Fliss, Business Systems Sorted022 151 1243.
At Muster, we understand that recruiting top talent in the automotive industry requires a winning formula: a blend of expertise and cutting-edge technology. What really sets us apart is our personal touch. We believe in building meaningful relationships and making sure every interaction is tailored to meet your unique needs in the automotive industry.
Reach out to our team today! Ph: 09 394 7444 Freephone 0508 MUSTER info@musterrecruit.co.nz - www.musterrecruit.co.nz
Andrea Andrew WoF Consultant
We encourage all members to attend the training courses, professional development opportunities or networking events taking place in their areas. Our region coordinators will let you know what’s on and when. They are also keen to hear your ideas for other training or get-togethers that you’d like to take part in.
The region executive committees meet approximately every six weeks and all MTA members are most welcome to attend. The more you get involved, the more you can benefit from membership. Just contact your coordinator or region chair to check the dates of the meetings in your region.
KAIMAI
Kim Preston Regional Events Coordinator Team Leader 027 280 0707 kim.preston@mta.org.nz
Jason Land Region Chair 0274 452 635 jason@collinsauto.co.nz
CENTRAL WEST
James Candish Region Chair 027 226 3053 jc@vva.co.nz natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz
NORTHERN REGION
Amy Lai Region Coordinator 021 292 7652 amy.lai@mta.org.nz
natalie.campbell@mta.org.nz
Rachel Beattie Region Chair 027 496 6275 rachel@neighbourhood mechanic.co.nz
Kelly Stephens Region Chair 027 366 0050 kstephens@hbtoyota.co.nz
UPPER NORTH ISLAND CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND
MIKE BURD Team Leader 027 539 4010 mike.burd@mta.org.nz
SOUTH AUCKLAND
MARK MOWBRAY 027 270 2665 mark.mowbray@mta.org.nz
LOWER NORTH ISLAND & UPPER SOUTH ISLAND
DANNY GARRICK 027 478 0593 danny.garrick@mta.org.nz
NICK MILLS 027 2099 494 nick.mills@mta.org.nz
LOWER SOUTH ISLAND
SHELLEY CARTER 027 497 1568 shelley.carter@mta.org.nz
MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT
Member support team: 0800 00 11 44 mta@mta.org.nz
Shannon Morbey Region Coordinator 021 031 0075 shannon.morbey@mta.org.nz
Region Coordinator 021 152 8232 jody.worsfold@mta.org.nz
www.evcity.kiwi
SOUTHERN MAINLAND
Katrina Garrett Region Coordinator 021 225 5528 katrina.garrett@mta.org.nz
Leslie Baxter Region Chair 03 208 1234 leslie@carnabycars.co.nz
Region Coordinator 021 152 8232 jody.worsfold@mta.org.nz
021 706 503 hamish.miller@op.ac.nz
L-R: Tony Allen, Grant Woolford, Bob Boniface (President), Sturrock Saunders, Ross Verry, Andrea Andrew, Joris Sanders.
Level up your career.
Take the next step in your career with MITO’s New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management).
This programme is designed for current and aspiring managers, supervisors and administrators who would like to progress their knowledge and skills in team management and development.
Scan the QR code or apply at mito.org.nz/first-line-management
MITO is a business division of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology. We support on-job learning and career development for the automotive, transport, logistics and extractive industries.
