On the road may 2014

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MAY 2014

ON THE ROAD

2 ON THE ROAD 2014

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n recent years the driver licensing system has toughened up and many a professional driver like motor racers and driving instructors will declare not before time. As anyone who has driven extensively overseas will attest, our standard of driving in this country leaves much to be desired.

Still, we can’t live without a car and especially in rural Northland where the words ‘bus’ and ‘service’ don’t always go well together. And although technical development will improve the appearance and competence of the car, and there are some cars in the

pipeline that will drive themselves, the motor vehicle as we basically know it will still be with us for years to come.

The motor industry is worth billions to the country in terms of fiscal turnover, employment and asset investment and you don’t have to go far in Whangarei to see considerable sign of that input. The days of the back-yard car dealer are mostly and thankfully gone and we take our hats off to the business people of this industry who are ensuring we as consumers receive a professional standard of attention.

In this supplement we have aimed not so much to give you a rundown of the latest and greatest on-road achievement – any old motoring publication can do that – but, rather, to improve your knowledge about what we so often take for granted and yet for the most part remains such an essential part of our lives. And unlike the majority of motor publications, in this issue we pay attention to women as drivers, workers and most important of all, customers.

Sandy Myhre

THE ORIGINAL AIR BAGS

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e all know ‘em and may even be one ourselves – the garrulous amateur driving instructor who knows better than you and isn’t afraid to say so. They’re the back seat driver, also known as the original air bag and they can quite literally be a pain.

According to the Daily Mail in 2011, a British survey of more than 1,000 motorists revealed one in seven have had an accident or near miss caused by a distraction from a rear seat passenger.

Partners were cited as the worst culprits.

Women were most likely to get angry at criticism of their driving. The study found men are most likely to take their eyes off the road to chat to passengers and younger drivers were more likely to get angry with criticism over their driving.

A disconcerting 92 percent of motorists admitted to being back-seat drivers themselves.

The top four distractions for British drivers were back-seat drivers (51 percent), passengers (31 percent), changing music (27 percent) and eating or drinking (20 percent). How do we compare in New Zealand?

In 2013 an AA Insurance Driver’s Index Survey also polled 1,000 regular drivers and found that texting was the number one distraction, followed by reading a newspaper, shaving or applying make-up equal with talking on a mobile without a hands-free kit and finally, changing the radio, iPod or MP3 player. Children in the car as distractions came in seventh with other passengers in tenth. Clearly then, we’re different in New Zealand and what does it say about our driving?

Paul Radisich, twice World Touring Car Cup champion and V8 Supertourer racer in Australia and New Zealand says, firmly tongue in cheek, Kiwis aren’t easily distracted because most people

sit in the right hand lane and never pull over so on that basis alone our chances of being distracted are very low. And despite his on-track competence, he’s had back seat drivers.

“They’ve given me their wisdom over the years but I’ve felt no reason to take action. My wife tops the chart telling me I travel too close or I’ve just missed a parked car, as if, but I have very high concentration levels and a fairly thick skin even when they start screaming or shouting!”

Emma Gilmour, one of New Zealand’s top rally drivers, is used to having instructions barked at her by a co-driver - it comes with the sport. But for on-road driving she diplomatically calls back seat driving instruction ‘feedback’ and says it’s in the ‘best interest’ of the passenger to have a happy driver.

“It’s important to keep distractions to a minimum and with back seat drivers just be honest and tell them their input is making you nervous and anxious.”

The old adage that most drivers consider themselves good drivers applies

and telling a driver they’re not up to standard could lose a perfectly good friendship or cause a family rift. It’s a tricky risk-assessment situation unless you’re far more experienced and competent by comparison but even then voicing an opinion can be fraught. The nut behind the wheel usually comes with an in-built ego.

Motor Racing Champion Paul Radisich

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NZ Rally Driver Emma Gilmore

OUR VERY OWN SANDY MYHRE

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ormer British and current NZ economy driving recordholder, Sandy is an established author – 50 Years on Track (Hodder Moa) Holden (Holden NZ) From Indy to Indy, Scott Dixon (Hodder Moa) The Rat - The Paul Radisich Story (Harper Collins).

An award-winning journalist she was the first woman member of NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild, the first woman member and first President of the NZ Motorsport Media Association and has covered motor racing from all the major tracks of the world.

• Editor of One Lady Owner (woman’s motoring supplement Herald on Sunday) • Motoring editor Easy Mix 98.3fm • Motorsport correspondent Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport • Motorsport producer The Radio Network (live broadcast) Sandy has three sons and has lived most of her life in New Zealand. She spent six months in London in 2007 to research her last book and returned again to London in 2010 to concentrate on the Women’s World Car of the Year as the first presentation to the supreme award winner, Jaguar, was at their boutique showroom in Knights bridge. Sandy returned to New Zealand in 2010 and lives in the beautiful Bay of Islands.

ON THE ROAD CONTENTS 2.

Introduction from Sandy Myhre

3.

4.

Buying Your First Car

5.

The New Holden Malibu Appeals to Women

6.

The New Big Little Car – Ford Fiesta Ecoboost

7.

8.

Bindons Open a New Store

9.

Grooming Your Vehicle Adds Years

The New Toyota Prado Landcruiser

Service Your Vehicle for Performance

10.

11.

Child Restraints Save Lives

12.

Towing Your Vehicle and more…

The Total Approach to Traffic Solutions

13.

14.

15.

Local Businesses

16.

Ruakaka Motors - Serving the Community

17.

Side Tracks Trucking with Women at the Wheel

Road Transport Qualifications with NorthTec

18.

19.

20.

Are You Under Pressure?

22.

23.

Women on Two Wheels

24.

The Magic of Magic Tyres Fatigue Risk Management Systems

The Myths Surrounding Women and Parking IC Motors and their Team of Professional Women

3

BUYING YOUR FIRST

CAR

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uying a car can be a formidable process whether it’s your first car or the twentieth. It’s not just the amount of money being spent, it’s the relative uncertainty of knowing it will represent good value for money and won’t clap out on the way home from the car lot. At least when you’re buying a house or even a kennel, you can spot a rotting weatherboard but do you know what’s lurking under the bonnet of a car or what might potentially fall down from the chassis? And how do you gauge value-for-money?

Decide What You Want: Be practical. It’s no good buying a two bucket-seat sports job with a power bulge in the bonnet if you need a station wagon for all the guitars and amplifiers.

• By all means choose several options but don’t get carried away with fantasy, you’ll regret it a little further down the track • If that sounds like limiting your horizons, it’s not. It’s sheer joy to own your first car. Just make sure you’re going to be happy tomorrow, next month or next year

Let Your Fingers Do The Walking: Most dealers advertise on the net and there are a myriad of sites besidesTrade Me where price comparisons can be made

• Check your local paper classifieds and run-of-paper advertisements They are a good source of information

The Art Of Negotiation

• Go to a car fair and wander around, even at the risk of being labelled a tyre kicker. It’s your money.

• What exactly is included in the price?

Dealers: Most dealers have considerable investment in wanting to give you the best value used car (and let’s face it, your first car is usually pre-loved). And you are protected by fairly stringent consumer law.

In most cases dealers will negotiate on the advertised price.

• What extras can you get? You won’t know until you ask • Are you paying cash or going for finance? It could make a difference to the price • Buying something slightly unpopular (model or colour) might get you a slightly better discount

• Most dealers will offer at least a three-month guarantee period

• Remember to factor insurance into

• They are there to help, they are the experts

And then?

• They might have something out the back that’s just come in and would suit you perfectly

Auction Houses: It’s worth going to an auction to see what’s for sale and at what price. If you’re prepared to buy, be prepared to pay for a mechanical on-site inspection.

your budget, it’s vitally important.

If you have any difficulties within the warranty, phone the dealer. Just remember that a flat tyre probably isn’t covered if you’ve driven over a nail in your driveway. There are certain personal responsibilities with owning a car that not even the best dealer can cover you for.

Trade Me, Neighbours, Friends and Family.

You could get the original one lady owner never raced, rolled or rallied but there are no guarantees when buying privately.

• It literally pays to have a mechanical inspection done if you’re serious • If in doubt, take a mechanic along with you

Kzenon / Shutterstock.com

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ON THE ROAD PRADO STILL GOING STRONG 4

f ever a large off-roader is suited to Northland conditions it has to be the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. It’s simply not a city car and although they’re let loose in Remuera, Karori and Fendalton to pick up little Kate and Harry from school, they’re never going to be given a serious workout.

The Prado has been around a long time, since 1990 essentially. This current Land Cruiser is the fourth generation and it’s not entirely new. Toyota probably didn’t see the need to totally overhaul what is a fairly good package but instead it was handed over to an appearance surgeon to be tweaked, stretched and modified to look smarter, younger and somewhat more elegant. Having said that, though, the new five-pronged front grille somehow makes the outer covering appear more rugged.

The improvements are really noticeable inside around the dash area which has been redesigned to cope with the seven inch screen that contains the audio equipment, a reversing camera and SatNav. The elegance comes in the form of leather seats and while there are plenty of electric seat positioning options, the seat squab feels a bit straight, not quite as hiphugging as could be expected from what is a large off-roader. That’s probably going to be noticed more by women than men.

Steering and suspension have benefitted from upgrades and on the meandering roads between Auckland and the Bay of Islands the performance in this department is superb. It handles

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like a much smaller SUV, which it’s not, it’s quite a large car. And that old bogey of big SUVs – harsh road noise and vibration – seems to have been almost eliminated.

It’s wonderfully quiet.

The 4.0 litre petrol engine has been around a long time too and doing good service. The diesel might be more economical but this petrol version isn’t too shabby, helped by the refined V6 configuration and computer-aided economy ‘intelligence’. What is noticeable is that during a required quick get-upand-go (as on a ridiculously sited passing lane on a hill around a bend) the engine and gearing had to work reasonably hard.

From numerous accounts of road tests the diesel engine version supplies the better torque.

Clearly there’s a ton of room to play with making it an enormously generous family

car or a very decent holiday cruiser. To give you a pragmatic idea of size of this Toyota, those entrance hand-holds and side steps are needed if you’re vertically small.

And off-road? We didn’t get the opportunity to try but you get the feeling

that’s what it’s been designed for. So if it’s luxury in a competent rural work-horse you want or need, the Prado would be an excellent investment.

A completely new model wasn’t necessary but still the Toyota upgrades to the latest Land Cruiser Prado have added refinement and sophistication.

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* The advertised RSPs apply to the models shown, subject to stock availability and purchased and delivered prior to June 30th, 2014. Pricing to be confirmed at time of receipt. On road costs (including the initial WOF) are not included.

Offer not available in conjunction with any other offer, is not transferable or redeemable for cash or discount, is available to GST and non-GST registered New Zealand residents only. Employees of Toyota New Zealand Limited, Toyota Financial Services Limited, their advertising agents, subsidiaries and Toyota dealership staff, and their immediate families are not eligible for the offer. Vehicles may differ slightly from those pictured. For full terms and conditions visit our website. *Choices finance, based on 60 months/75kms, 20% deposit with a final balloon payment. Guaranteed minimum Trade-In value option. Establishment fee of $400 and PPSR fee $10 included. Subject to TFS Lending Criteria.

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ON THE ROAD HOLDEN MALIBU hen a woman gushes about a car, take notice. A colleague just returned from a South Island trip, tried to rent a Commodore V6 but there wasn’t one available so they gave her a Malibu.

She’d never heard of this Holden before, which isn’t surprising since it has traditionally only been sold in America.

But in 2012 GM decided to tackle the Japanese head-on in the highly-crowded mid-size market to produce a global car for sale internationally and named it after, well, what? Probably not the first line of Malibu dolls – Barbie and Ken - more likely Malibu Beach in California.

This car (which replaces the Epica) sits between the Commodore and the

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smaller Cruze and is nicely placed to capture both fleet business and private buyers who don’t want the larger or the smaller Holdens. And it’s got a lot going for it in terms of specification and handling ability.

Included as standard equipment are the alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, Holden’s highly competent My Link system through a touch screen which also holds the rear view camera, a cracking nine speaker stereo with USB and MP3 player input and cruise control.

That’s just for starters.

The seat squabs are cushion comfortable and haven’t been shaved for space. There’s plenty of leg room for average sized bodies and some

5 intriguingly hidden storage spaces like behind the flick-up screen (good for storing valuables), door pockets that can hold one-litre bottles and a few other nooks and crannies, all cleverly positioned. The boot, although not small, isn’t as deep as some others in this segment which, of course, is why there’s generous leg room for the back seat passengers.

On the polished facia area there’s a strip that runs horizontally across the lower dash. It doesn’t seem to do anything but looks funky and ups the techno-cool.

Style-wise the front is fairly bulkylooking, which Americans seems to love, but stand behind or side on to the

Malibu and you can see why many have described it as stylish.

Who will the Malibu appeal to?

Mark Cromie Holden say their customers are maybe middle aged and want to get out of the bigger Commodore but not downsize to a “pea-shooter”. It would be a good decision but it could – and should – also appeal to fleet buyers with an eye on economy and excellent performance.

For the last word on the matter we return to the colleague who sums the Malibu up thus: “I couldn’t believe how great it is,” she gushed without being paid by Holden. “It was so smooth and luxurious.”

Holden’s new Malibu – slotting in competently between the Commodore and the Barina.

FREE TO SELL P rincipal Motor Vehicle Dealer, Adam Campi has met all sorts of people over the past 26 years that he’s been in business. The Northlanders take some beating though,” he laughs.

“They’re so down to earth, friendly and tell it like it is.”

Straight talking is crucial in the motor trade and Adam has built a great reputation doing just that; developing 30% of his trade from repeat business and referrals.

“We offer a solution for busy people and those that don’t want the hassle that private selling involves. No more waiting around or having to deal with undesirables turning up on your doorstep.

No more worrying about whether you’ll be duped and left out of pocket.

We take all that stress away. Come and see us and we’ll agree a price and then sell your vehicle for you, for free, from our high profile yard where thousands of pairs of eyes will get to see it every day.

Buyers know we’ve got a great range of realistically priced cars in the $3,000 to $30,000 bracket, so there’s something to suit every pocket. They appreciate the benefits of warranties, finance and assurance that a registered Motor Vehicle Trader can offer too.

If you want a win-win situation, visit the Free to Sell yard for a reliable trustworthy service before and after the sale.

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Adam Campi from Free To Sell Cars

Check us out at www.freetosell.co.nz or on Facebook!

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After hours Adam Campi 027 4944 145

ON THE ROAD FORD FIESTA ECOBOOST 1.0L 6

he old adage, never judge a book by its cover, applies here. Isn’t a onelitre three-cylinder engine a lawn mower on wheels? A Grandpa mobile? A throwback to the days of the fuel crisis?

Wrong, wrong and very wrong.

There has to be a very good reason why the Fiesta EcoBoost 1.0l won the Women’s World Car of the Year for 2013 and the power plant (separately) captured the International Engine of the Year title in 2013 and 2012 - among many other awards.

In fact this boost technology (essentially supercharged) may be a

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strong indicator of where the world is heading. Fuel consumption and emissions are comparable to hybrids or biodiesel cars, and when coupled with stylish design as it is with the Fiesta, these are dynamic combinations.

Of course an engine this size is never going to give you the kind of get-go performance that pulls the skin back on your face quicker than an appearance surgeon but it’s hard to credit you’re in a car with a tiny one-litre engine, not just at maximum road speed but even pulling through the curve to get there. Initially I thought I’d picked up a 1.5 because the

torque is so good and that might create a dilemma for Ford. It out-performs their own normally aspirated 1.5 litre engine.

Even at the higher speeds, the Fiesta EcoBoost feels like there’s something more in reserve. And the really neat thing is, it comes with class-leading economy and emission standards and Ford’s own publicity puts this technology nicely. The engine block is tiny enough to fit on a sheet of A4 paper or stow away in a plane’s overhead luggage. Imagine trying to do that - the metal detectors would ping at fifty paces but the point’s plainly made. Also class-

leading is a long list of safety features and smart (hands-free and seamless) specification too numerous to list here but when you see all the acronyms (like ESP, TCS, ABS, EBD AND SYNC) you get the picture.

Ford has always created competent creature comfort levels within the cabin of the little Fiesta and this new model is no exception. Once again, it feels far larger than it actually is. Moreover this is one of the best-looking subcompact cars around today. Ford stylists just seem to have got it right and if that sounds like being in lust, you’re right.

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ALL KARS L esley Lambert joined her husband Bryan at All Kars 20 years ago. “I came to help out for a while after being made redundant from nursing – and I’ve been here ever since,” she laughs.

“I must be doing something right.”

All Kars is like home from home for Lesley. She gets to do all the top jobs like cleaning toilets, washing up and keeping the office spic and span. She’s a dab hand at paperwork too – preferring the good old fashioned manual pen and paper system to the computer to keep track of everything. “It works for me, so why would I change it. I believe in keeping life as simple as possible – it’s too precious to waste your time sweating the small stuff,” Lesley explains with a heartfelt sparkle in her voice. “There’s nothing like a cancer scare to help you appreciate what you’ve got - and – I’ve

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got the best of both worlds. I have my health and the freedom to fit the job into my lifestyle. I work alongside my surrogate son Brett Weir, my son Lyndon and the man I’ve been married to for 45 years.

Lesley tends to always have her head buried in a book. At work it’s the accounting type. At home, you’ll find her sitting out in her beloved garden with a good thriller.

Combining work and lifestyle is an integral part of the Lambert family ethos – even down to the choice of cars. Lesley is passionate about Minis – but it has to have four doors so she can taken the grandchildren out. Bryan has a slightly biased preference for Mahindra – a utility vehicle that’s well suited to the kiwi lifestyle for which he’s just acquired the dealership for.

ON THE ROAD BINDONS OPEN BULK OIL STORE & MORE indons Ltd has recently expanded its operation by opening a dedicated bulk oil and lubricants facility, Lubricants Northland at 49 Commerce Street, Whangarei.

Owner Allan Bindon says “the intention was always there to service the trucking, transport and forestry sectors – however the existing Walton street site wasn’t large enough to cope with storage requirements for bulk oils and lubricants.

A specialised solution was needed”.

That solution was Lubricants Northland, a new branch of Bindons and run as a joint venture with the TOTAL lubricants brand. The Bindons/TOTAL relationship goes back many years, TOTAL being a leading global brand active in oil, gas and chemicals, ranked 4th largest world wide. “Being involved with TOTAL is a plus for us and our customers.

The product offers great reliability, is well priced and the technical support is outstanding”.

Allan says whilst transport operators are concerned about cost – they’re equally interested in efficiency and reliability. “We’ve monitored TOTAL oil degradation by carrying out tests through several of our core trucking customers and it’s fair to say everyone’s impressed with the results”.

Allan Bindon says it was also obvious that the new store needed to cater to a rapidly changing market. “We realized

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we couldn’t only sell lubricants. Early on we planned on stocking complimentary products like the Wix range of commercial filters, manufactured in the USA for heavy duty applications”.

“We’re also stockists of FUEL 360, an innovative new fuel additive manufactured by a small Auckland company. We’re pleased to support a Kiwi product that’s taking on the world market. Trucking, agriculture, forestry operators should be taking note here - FUEL 360 are so confident in their product that they guarantee a more efficient fuel burn. For trucking applications this also means increased economy and reduced engine wear and emissions. FUEL 360 is stocked at both Bindons branches.

Another innovative diesel product stocked for those with modern trucking fleets is BlueDEF™ a nontoxic solution of 67.5% purified water and 32.5% ultra pure automotive grade urea. BlueDEF™ is not a fuel additive. Rather, when BlueDEF is injected into the exhaust stream and passed over a catalyst, it helps convert NOx into nitrogen gas and water vapour – two harmless and natural components of the air we breathe.

Bindons are also Northland’s SKF distributors with large stocks of top quality belts and bearings held on the shelf. This means reduced down time – particularly important in the trucking

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and transport industries. Lighting requirements are taken care of with a full Hella range as well as other electrical products through Narva.

Allan says having the two stores is the best of both worlds. They compliment each other and provide a level of efficiency, service and savings demanded by today’s business customers. “We’ve invested lots of time and resources getting this right and at the end of the day we want our customers to support us, not just because we’re local but because we’re professional, competitive and responsible”.

Bindons and Lubricants Northland owner Allan Bindon is excited about their new business venture

Cates Brothers and Bindons/Lubricants Northland - a great example of business working together

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ON THE ROAD ARE YOU BEING SERVED? 8

hen it comes to servicing your car two of the biggest problems are memory and money.

As long as the car is performing we just plain forget to get it checked and when we think we should, we justify not having it done because money’s tight.

It’s false economy of course and having the car clap out on a rainy winter’s night isn’t pleasant.

It’s a good policy to establish a relationship with your mechanic. Most vehicle service providers are bound by consumer protection legislation and, if they’re part of a franchise or belong to a recognized servicing organisation, are additionally contractually bound to provide a certain standard of customer care. If you think you’re not being looked after well, change your provider.

It’s a competitive world and you’re the customer.

The Warrant of Fitness check acts as a service reminder of course and WOF rules were recently changed. Since 1 January 2014 all vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2004 now only require annual inspections for the lifetime of the vehicle.

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From 1 July this year other WOF changes will be introduced: • After an initial inspection new vehicles won’t require a WOF inspection until the third anniversary of first registration • Vehicles less than three years old will be issued a WOF that expires on the third anniversary of first registration or 12 months after the current WOF expires, whichever is the longest • Vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2000 will require an annual inspection • Vehicles first registered before 1 January 2000 still require a six-monthly WOF inspection.

For more information – www.nzta.govt.nz

Independently owned and locally operated testing stations

$20

not being checked for 12 months?

Pop in and get one of our 10 point interim Safety Checks* and put your mind at ease.

Helping keep Northland drivers

WATER STREET MOTORS

safe sa for 25 years

We service and repair all makes & models and specialise in European Cars

Whangarei Testing Station Railway Rd, Ph 438 8125

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ON THE ROAD CAR GROOMING hink back to the last time you sold a car. You probably had it serviced, cleaned and polished, it had a couple of little dents and windscreen chips fixed, checked the tyre pressures, cleaned all the glass and gave the interior a serious makeover. And then, you liked it so much you wished you weren’t selling it. Oddly enough, it’s not very difficult to keep your car in tiptop condition all the time, and it pays dividends both in terms of your enjoyment of your vehicle, its general performance, and its re-sale value.

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Learn to drive The first step is to learn to drive. You may have a license, but chances are your driving techniques could be improved.

There are many tactics you can employ to prolong the life and looks of your car, like knowing how to minimise stone chips by driving well on metal and through ruts and pot-holes, and how to avoid excessive wear and tear on your brakes, steering and gearbox. Sign up for an advanced driving course — it’s worthwhile and really good fun.

Pay for regular, professional servicing Unless you’re a mechanic, you’ll probably need a professional to service your car.

There are all manner of filters and fluids which require checking and changing and it pays to have them checked as often as recommended by the manufacturer. Many workshops offer different levels of servicing from basic

9

through to executive, so you can choose what fits your budget.

SLIP, SLAP, SLOP. No, your car doesn’t really need sunscreen (although one television motoring programme recently recommended polishing the dash with it) but it’s not a bad idea to keep it out of the sun. Park it in a carport or in the shade when it’s sunny and you’ll minimize the risk of cracks in the dash and faded upholstery.

Deal with scratches and windscreen chips If you’ve had a supermarket carpark bump and scratched your paint, grab the appropriate product from your auto retailer and deal with it. Many scratches are enormously improved with a cut and polish. And if you chip your windscreen, get it fixed straight away. It takes no time and the cost is usually minimal.

It could save a tiny chip turning into a major crack at an inconvenient moment.

during the pollen season. Wax it as often as you should wax your legs, and keep it vacuumed. Stones and grit underfoot will wear out your carpets.

Deal with stains on the upholstery as soon as they happen. Buy a good automotive leather conditioner if you have leather upholstery.

Queen of clean Head off to the automotive retailer and grab the essentials for keeping the car clean. Wash it regularly, especially

Use your car as the manufacturer intended

s e i d a L ing

If you have five kids who like to go camping with bikes, cricket bats and other toys, get a van or a stationwagon.

Cramming equipment into your little hatchback will take its toll.

Bikes especially are notorious for having sharp bits that poke holes in the roof lining or the seats. It’s also counterproductive to cart more around in your car than the specifications recommend. Don’t habitually tow a trailer full of gravel with a 1500cc round-town runabout.

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We cover: An ideal opportunity • How to use a Jack to ask all the • Checking all fluid levels questions you’ve • Tyres – Pressure & Wear ever needed to know • The Correct Oil for your Car about your car.

• Plus….

Tyres And whether you’re towing anything or not, make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. Check them regularly for defects and wear, and make sure your spare is always ready to go.

Morning Tea included - Coffee, Tea & Muffins

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Bookings essential Phone Sue 430 3728 email sue@kellysauto.co.nz

14-16 Herekino Street, Whangarei 0110 09-430 3728 | www.kellysauto.co.nz

Jerry Clayton BMW

Takapuna

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ON THE ROAD

10

CHILD RESTRAINTS SAVE LIVES The safest place for a child under the age of 12 is the back seat, says The New Zealand Automobile Association, and warns never place a rear facing seat in the front with an airbag, serious injury or death could occur in an accident.

Three-point safety belts for all seats

• Where possible, drive forwards out of the driveway.

Lap/sash safety belts should be in all forward facing seating positions, including the centre rear. Three-point belts are much safer than lap belts in frontal impacts. If you regularly use the centre-rear seat, this is a must.

• Always check behind the vehicle before reversing.

ISOFix child restraint anchorages Dedicated lower anchorage points for the installation of child restraints. These make it easier to install child restraints correctly.

Safety in driveways One in 5 child pedestrian deaths or injuries occur in the family’s own driveway.

Children are 3 times more at risk of death or injury where the play area is not fenced off from the driveway. The risk is higher for children in homes where driveways are shared. Extreme care should be taken in driveways where children may be playing. Most of the children who are killed or injured are toddlers around 2 years of age. Small children cannot be seen behind a vehicle.

Keep children safe and secure, well away from driveways.

• Fence off the driveway from the main play area — particularly if the driveway is shared.

MOBILE AUTO ELECTRONICS SERVICE We come to you!

• Car Kits / Car Phones • Car Security / Alarms • Car Audio • Reversing Sensors • Reverse Cameras • Home Security

If safety and security is your concern give us a call today.

CHANNEL INSTALLATIONS Phone 0274 926 188

• Know where children are before you start the vehicle.

Child restraint safety systems Safety standards are a set of officially approved specifications covering such topics as methods of testing, terminology, performance and construction requirements. A set, or sets of expected norms and acceptable outcomes.

Standards can be enforced by regulation as well as legal or military recourse.

Improvements to safety standards come about through the development of new and better standards or codes of practice, of which change daily in some countries.

Engineers, designers and manufacturers have to make sure their products adhere to the relevant standards.

Look for a restraint that suits your child’s weight and height and importantly, fits your vehicle.

Installation of car seats 80% of car seats are incorrectly installed.

You should have your car seats installed and checked by the professionals.

For more information visit www.aa.co.nz

ON THE ROAD THE TOTAL APPROACH TO TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS ntergrated Traffic Solutions use the latest technology to aid and improve safety and efficiency across the roading network. We are New Zealand’s largest provider of traffic services and a recognized industry leader. We’re shaping the future of the industry by offering full service traffic solutions, proving road users with the information they need to reach their destination safely and with the minimal disruption to their journey time.

Our expertise and experience ensures that we deliver optimal solutions to your road safety demand requirements.

• Traffic information and control systems

• Train approach signals

• Traffic signals.

• Ramp control signals Through our work we actively assist in pioneering industry developments.

Our people are recognised for their contribution to the early development of SCATS and a range of signals commonly deployed today.

Offering you a complete portfolio of traffic service solutions...

• Entrance control systems

I

By working with ITS you gain the benefits of drawing from a full range of traffic related services and experience. This gives you the assurance that you’re receiving a thorough solution, provided by teams who are committed to enhancing road making, durability and usability.

Infrastructure • Technology based transportation systems • Public Lighting • Road equipment • Road making • Temporary traffic management.

Safety • Traffic signs • Barrier systems • Delineation devices • Enforcement and emergency equipment.

Parking • Barriers • Ticketing • Parking management systems.

Traffic Signals Traffic signals play an important part in managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. Their correct configuration and management is critical to personal and public safety across New Zealand’s roading network.

ITS (stands for Integrated Traffic Solutions) offers the full range of traffic signal services across New Zealand and the Pacific Rim—from analysis, planning and design through to supply, installation, training, evaluation and maintenance.

ITS’s industry leading traffic signals expertise covers:

Traffic Management • Communication

• Traffic control signals

• Intelligent Transportation systems

• Lane direction signals

• Flashing beacons

Tailored solutions which optimise traffic flow and maximise safety The design and installation of traffic control signals requires careful consideration of a number of requirements: safety, operational, strategic, and physical suitability. Our qualified technicians will work closely with you to determine the best options for your situation, based on local traffic conditions and requirements.

Our knowledge and capability offers you a range of benefits By using ITS for your traffic signal requirements you gain the advantages of: • Proven expertise and capability in the planning, provision and maintenance of traffic signals • A strong focus on safety, with an excellent safety track record • A team committed to providing innovative improvements to traffic control infrastructure

11

• Scale—extensive nationwide operational, technical and management personnel • 24 hour emergency response • An outstanding customer service ethic.

Products All products used by ITS are either RTA approved or comply with the requirements of the National Specification for the Installation and Modification of Traffic Signals. Our research and development teams closely review product developments.

They then trial the most promising products for their suitability to the New Zealand market. As a national supplier to the traffic signal industry we maintain a substantial inventory of approved traffic signal hardware including cables, lanterns and accessories, target boards, controllers and hardware associated with installation and servicing. We are a distributor for many of the products used in traffic signal maintenance, and are exclusive agents for the QTCTSC/4 Controller and Gelcore LEDs, both the first of their kind to obtain RTA certification. For more information: www.safe4u.co.nz (09) 470 1797

• Knowledge and supply of leading edge traffic signal products

INTEGRATED TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS

THE TOTAL APPROACH TO TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS Integrated Traffic Solutions use the latest technology to aid and improve safety and efficiency across the roading network. We are New Zealand’s largest provider of traffic services and a recognised industry leader.

We’re shaping the future of the industry by offering full service traffic solutions, providing road users with the information they need to reach their destinations safely and with minimal disruption to their journey time.

Our expertise and experience ensure that we deliver optimal solutions to your road safety and travel demand requirements.

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ITS

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ON THE ROAD

12 ARE YOU UNDER PRESSURE?

A

spate of fatal accidents involving non-warranted vehicles has sparked calls for drivers to take more responsibility for the roadworthiness of their cars.

‘‘ New Zealand cars were older than they should be - something the Government was working to improve,’’ he said.

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) warns the onus is on motorists to ensure their cars are fit for the road now that warrants of fitness (WoF) checks are set to be less frequent.

Dunedin siblings Danielle Ngametua Kiriau, 17, and Shannon James Kiriau, 22, were both killed when their green stickered Honda Integra, which should not have been on the road, crashed recently. The car was not up to warrant of fitness standard.

Several crashes in recent months involved cars that shouldn’t have been on the road, with some having gone years without safety checks, MTA said.

As of July this year, about 1.2 million cars made after 2000 that were once subject to six-monthly WoF inspections will now be checked annually.

“Some of these vehicles are already 14-years-old, and have clocked up several hundreds of thousands of kilometres travel, they’re not new cars,” MTA spokesman Hamish Stuart said.

“Risks will increase if owners aren’t vigilant.”

Tyres in bad condition are often a contributing factor in accidents. Drivers should already be doing regular safety checks on their cars.

Road policing manager Senior Sergeant Matt Broderick said ‘‘The advice would be to check your car prior to every journey, certainly the first journey of the day you should be doing a walkaround of the car.

“The safety of the modern car is far superior to cars that are much older.”

Another fatal crash near Kopaki in Waikato - in which an unrestrained baby travelling on its mother’s lap later died is thought to have been partly caused by the condition of two bald tyres.

AA general manager of motoring affairs Mike Noon said the most important thing for drivers to check was tyre tread and air pressure. A simple check with a 20 cent coin could reveal whether tyres were fit for the road. “You push [the coin] into the tyre, with the 20 at the bottom, and if you can see the base of the 2 then that means you’ve only got 2mm of tread and you should be considering changing your tyres.”

A third to half of all vehicles had the wrong tyre pressures, which could be extremely dangerous. Other things to look out for included “squealing” of the brakes - which meant the brake pads were wearing out - and making sure indicators and lights were working.

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NORTHLAND MOBILE CRUSHING LTD Phone 0274 437 925 A/H 09 401 9910 E gohrd1@xtra.co.nz

Doing our part to keep NZ Clean and Green

Beach Road • Dargaville 0310 PO Box 385 • Dargaville 0340 Ph: 09 439 7476 • Fax: 09 439 7476 Mob: 021 944 920 Accounts: 09 439 7479 nwtltd@hotmail.com

ON THE ROAD

14 SIDE TRACKS

The Design, engineering and product development workforce will also be retained to give what Stefan Jacoby, GM International Operations, called ‘an Australian accent’.

FORD

AUDI: The Audi A3 is the 2014 World Car of the Year, an award that covers the A3 range rather than a particular model. A panel of 69 motoring writers from 22 countries chose the Audi over the other two finalists, the Mazda3 and BMW 4-Series. Jurors said the third-generation A3 “offers a silky smooth ride” and a “superb choice of engines.”.

The winner last year was the Volkswagen Golf, with which the A3 shares much of its architecture. Audi of course is part of the Volkswagen Group.

The A3’s win is the seventh overall World COTY for Audi. In 2007, the RS4 won the performance gong and the TT, the design prize; in 2008, the R8 won both performance and design categories; and in 2010 the R8 V10 won the performance.

HOLDEN The Aussie company might be ceasing manufacturing in 2017 – and the costs associated with that have contributed to Holden’s recent substantial loss - but the long-time proving ground at Lang Lang in Victoria will remain and Holden vehicles will continue to be tuned for Aussie conditions.

In Christchurch over Labour Weekend, the Canterbury Mustang Owners’ Club will celebrate 50 years of the famous Ford with a convention featuring a public show and exhibition and a ‘pony run’ at Ruapuna race track.

There are various other ways to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mustang and in Stockton, California, they decided to launch a Ford Mustang, into outer space. Not your actual Mustang but a toy car which was lifted skywards by a helium-filled balloon to ride a capsule up to nearly 128,000 feet above the earth. As publicity stunts go, it has worked. News has taken off, well, like a rocket and has acted as publicity precursor to the launch of the all new Mustang in 2015.

MINI: One of New Zealand’s favourite movies, Goodbye Pork Pie, is set to make a comeback with MINI announcing plans to remake the film’s iconic Lake Hawea chase scene.

The shoot will feature a number of ‘new originals,’ including a new Director, new cast and the all-new MINI Hatch which went on sale earlier this month in place of the original 1978 model.

The final footage will be premiered at events throughout the country at the end of June. The remade scene footage and some behind-the-scenes footage will appear on MINI website.

SALVATION ARMY EMPLOYMENT PLUS and works closely with trainees to find beneficial and long term employment.

Pastoral care of our trainees is very important to us. The ability to utilise other Salvation Army programmes across the North helps us to achieve more than just gaining qualifications and employment outcomes as we endeavour to transform lives. We are here to help.

What some of our trainees have to say...

Mangonui Haulage Heavy Truck operator Pete Hewitt on the job after successfully completing training withThe salvation Army Employment Plus Heavy Transport programme. Loving his full time employment.

he team at The Salvation Army Employment Plus are passionate about transforming lives. Having the ability to do this with the training, pastoral care, and life skills as part of their daily work life offers a great sense of fulfilment.

It also goes a long way in meeting The Salvation Army’s mission on the front line.

The 3 training centres across the North in Kaitaia, Kaikohe and Whangarei with services to Dargaville offer various programmes for students 18 years or older.

The current programmes on offer are closely related to industry needs and include: Heavy Transport Driver training and licences to class 5 and endorsements including, wheels/tracks/ rollers, forklift, passenger and dangerous goods. Our Training for Industry programme targets training for the Civil roading sector and the demands for this industry Inc. Wheels/tracks/rollers, site safe, Traffic control - these programmes and our Job Accomplish sole parent programme, Back to Work and Licence for Work programmes across the North are all Employment focussed and identify the many aspects that make up an individual

T

Heavy Transport Driver training and licences to class 5 and endorsements including wheels/tracks/rollers, forklift, passenger and dangerous goods.

Phone 0800 437 587 or Whangarei (09) 438 4470, Kaitatia (09) 408 3492, Kaikohe (09) 405 2287. facebook.com/SalvationArmyEE Go to www.salvationarmy.org.nz/e&e

“It’s a good learning programme, it keeps me motivated, coming here has been really good for me, it’s not just for your licences it also gives you learning on the job and to find work.”

“The course is giving me great advice in opportunities and skills. It’s nice to meet new people. The tutors actually help you.”

“Tutor is funny and friendly, everyone gets along good together. The chance to learn useful things that will help me gain employment.”

“Working in a safe and lovely environment with awesome people and staff. It will help me get a job.”

“I’m learning new skills and stuff I haven’t studied before. It’s a straight to the point course. The tutors are awesome.”

“It helps to get your licence. The tutor keeps it interesting and varied. I’m finding it easy to learn in this industry.”

“Good and friendly environment, the vibe around this campus is a good one.”

“Everything is so cool being at the course and learning new things every day and the tutor is really friendly. They are very helpful.”

“It has given me hope. Learnt new techniques and gained valuable information that I feel is useful and necessary. Learning new skills. I have been able to identify skills I have and now have more confidence. The confidentiality and supportive environment.”

ON THE ROAD

15

WOMEN AT THE WHEEL A sk anyone what a typical truck driver looks like and the probability is they’ll describe a bloke wearing shorts, boots, a black singlet and probably tatts. “Karyl Arms and Andrea Young aren’t your typical truck drivers. Karyl is in control of a Kenworth semi-trailer carting cheese from Fonterra’s Eltham plant to New Plymouth. Andrea drives a petrol tanker delivering fuel around the central South Island, says National Road Carrier’s Executive Officer, Paula Rogers.

“The myth that road freight is a maleonly industry is just that: a myth. The reality is that there are women working in every aspect of the industry from driving, despatching and management to running their often quite sizeable companies. The problem is that there aren’t enough of them. Currently men make up around 84% of the people employed in road freight. The average across all industries is 53%.”

The imbalance means that the road freight industry is missing out on a potentially large pool of capable employees right when it is facing a chronic shortage of drivers. A recent survey by the Road Transport Forum, the national body representing the commercial road freight industry, found a widespread lack of drivers resulting in a significant number of companies being forced to park their trucks.

Overall, the Forum calculated that there is a long-term shortage of 1,100 drivers,

about the same number that similar surveys found in 2002 and 2006.

The industry has been working hard to bring in more drivers but the always growing freight task means that it hasn’t been able to bridge the gap using its traditional recruiting methods and working with organisations like Work and Income to identify suitable people.

“So for a whole host of good reasons, the road freight industry needs more women. That’s what it’s working on achieving, and it’s women who, rightly, are driving the initiative. An action group, Women in Road Transport, has been set up involving women at all levels of the sector and associated industries and Government ministries.

Teams have been tasked with developing a wide range of policies to support women already in the industry and attract new entrants. Two of the most important are the development of human resources guidelines and a diversity toolkit. The guidelines will cover important areas such as best practice, flexible work time and career paths and skills development.

A lot of focus is also going into expanding networking among women in the industry, use of social media and promoting the role of women in the industry,” says Ms Rogers Industry associations like National Road Carriers, training providers, polytechnic’s and other relevant representatives are also all sharing

information and working together to promote the industry. But it’s vital that young people get a driver’s license while at school so they can get entry level jobs when they leave.

“Women make excellent truck drivers.

In fact, across the Tasman many of the big opencast mines prefer to have women drive their dump trucks because they are easier on the equipment. New Zealand road freight operators are similarly enthusiastic, reporting their women drivers use less fuel and incur lower maintenance costs.

For the women drivers the attractions are an ever changing workplace, seeing the country and the responsibility of being entrusted with up to half a million dollar’s worth of machinery. But truck driving isn’t the only opportunity.

One of the themes “Women in Road Transport” wants to emphasise, is that road freight isn’t just a job; it can be a career with a wide range of options, not just for women but for anyone interested in working in a dynamic and essential industry.”

Paula Rogers of National Road Carriers

ON THE ROAD

16

RUAKAKA MOTORS O n or Off the Road – Ruakaka Motors provide an extensive variety of services for a large range of vehicles With 30 years experience as an Auto Electrical Mechanic, owner Greg Wheat brings the Bream Bay community peace of mind that their local workshop will be able to fix their truck, car, bike, trailer or caravan – regardless of its age.

Greg is a good old fashioned mechanic who’s expertise in the motor industry has grown alongside the technological advancements. He’s a man who’s worked his way up from tea boy to workshop manager – and now, the proud owner of Ruakaka Motors.

Greg appreciates the little things that make a big difference to the customers.

“Vehicles play a vital role in our lives.

They’re one of the biggest investments people make, so giving customers peace of mind that you can get them back on the road in the fastest, most cost effective manner is critical. I pride myself on being able to offer a friendly, trustworthy service that people will recommend to others. A ‘word of mouth’ reputation is especially important in a small community like Bream Bay.” The experience Greg has in small to medium trucks means he can offer the local business community the benefit of taking their trucks to him for a pre COF check. Time off the road costs money.

It can be frustrating to find your vehicle has failed on something small that could so easily have been fixed if only you’d known about it. Having a pre COF check means you know that that trip into Whangarei will result in the COF you need to keep you legally on the road.

Time and money are precious resources for all of us. Many people rely on their cars to get to and from work and having a local workshop that’ll get your old faithful up and running is invaluable.

Greg has the experience and knowledge to turn his hand to any car, irrespective of its age so you can go about your day knowing you can get to work on time and fulfil any family commitments you have.

Ruakaka Motors offer warrants for cars, trucks, trailers and motorbikes as well as regular tuning and servicing.

Their repair and replacement services extend beyond just the mechanical side to windscreens and tyres. The shop offers AA batteries, oil, spark plugs and other automotive consumables – and if they’ve not got what you need, they’ll get it.

Goodwill is part of the everyday service you can expect from Ruakaka Motors. You can pop into the workshop any time and ask for a free tyre and battery check and Gold Card holders receive reduce warrant of fitness charges.

Greg also offers an AA 24 hour service and now that he’s just got a V endorsement on his license, he’s able to drive a transporter to take care of your car Helping the local community and its people develop, is an important aspect of the business. Greg has had a number of students from Bream Bay College join him as part of their Gateway programme. One such student, Noah Smith was so good that Greg has given him an apprenticeship.

Greg is delighted to be a part of the Bream Bay community. He and his wife Alida had been visiting the area for over 10 years when the opportunity came up to buy Ruakaka Motors in July last year – so they jumped at the chance. Now that they’ve finally sold their house in Auckland and Alida has a job as a nurse at Whangarei hospital, they’re looking forward to establishing both personal and business connections.

Greg Wheat of Ruakaka Motors

Ruakaka Motors FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS • Pre COF check Greg Wheat Phone: 09 432 7233 • Warrants & WOFs Mobile: 021 0266 4606 • Mechanical and Windscreen Email: Ruakaka.Motors@gmail.com Repair & Replacement Corner of Sime Road and • 24 hour AA breakdown Marsden Point Road, Ruakaka • Salvage • Shop consumables: Batteries, oil, spark plugs and more

ON THE ROAD

17

ROAD TRANSPORT QUALIFICATIONS WITH NORTHTEC NorthTec offers a number of Level 3 heavy vehicle driver training courses which ensure that employers have the confidence that their operations are being carried out efficiently and safely within the requirements of industry best practice standards and New Zealand law.

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CERTIFICATES  DIPLOMAS  DEGREES

CLASS 5

ROAD TRANSPORT NorthTec’s certified heavy vehicle driver training courses give employers confidence that their operations are being carried out efficiently, safely and within the requirements of industry best practice standards and New Zealand law. NorthTec offers industry training and assessment for the log transport, passenger service and goods service sectors of the transport industry.

NorthTec’s driver trainers are qualified driving instructors, ITO accredited assessors and NZTA approved providers. This, coupled with their extensive industry experience, enables our trainers to provide training that meets the requirements of National Unit Standards. We design and carry out our training activities in collaboration with industry organisations to reduce impact on daily operations while still ensuring professional training standards are maintained.

Training includes safe driving traffic law, health and safety relating to heavy vehicles, heavy vehicle driving skills, heavy vehicle dynamics, risk reduction, safe driving strategies, vehicle systems and components, loading procedures and restraint systems, log book and fatigue management and fuel efficient driving.

Both practical and theoretical assessments are carried out throughout the training period. Short courses are available with monthly start dates in Whangarei, Kerikeri and Kaitaia (subject to numbers).

Qualification

Level

Location

Delivery

Length

Cost (approx.) incl.GST

National Certificate in Goods Service (Heavy Vehicle Driver)

3

Whangarei

Full time/Part time

12 months part time

$1,150.00

National Certificate in Transportation of Logs by Road

3

Whangarei

Full time/Part time

12 months part time

$1,150.00

Certificate in Road Transport

3

Whangarei Full time Kaitaia, Kerikeri

12 weeks full time

$1,150.00

Enquire about Student Loans and Scholarships

Freephone 0800 162 100 For more detailed information visit:

www.northtec.ac.nz Refer to our website for terms and conditions

- iwi, tou - wananga Tou • Your people, your place

ON THE ROAD

18

CALL A TOW TRUCK AND MORE… G o easy when you’re stuck. If you’re stuck in mud, don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component.

Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fine. But if it looks as though you’re really stuck, then don’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly, as well as spinning tyres at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches and differentials.

It may be cheaper in the long run to call the tow truck rather than risk big repair bills. If you’re in an area where you’re likely to get stuck, then consider carrying a traction aid such as sand, gravel, or cat litter in the boot.

Lighten up your key chain Does your car key share a chain with a dozen or more other keys? That’s a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it’s in the ignition. The weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure.

To add years of service to your ignition switch, buy a lightweight chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others. And if your ignition key “sticks” when you try to turn on the car, it’s a warning that your ignition switch is about to fail. Replace it before you get stranded.

Store with care If you are not going to use your car for more than a month.

store it properly to prevent unnecessary damage and repairs on your return.

• Fill the fuel tank to help prevent condensation from accumulating • Put a vapor barrier on your garage floor. A4mm polyethylene drop-cloth will do • Disengage the parking brake to help avoid brake corrosion • Put the car on jack stands to take the weight of the vehicle off the wheels and tyres • Disconnect and remove the battery to keep it from draining. A trickle charge can be a good idea • Plug the exhaust pipe with a rag to prevent moist air from infiltrating it • Park in the shade, even in winter.

A garage is always the ideal place to park but if one isn’t available, minimise interior damage from UV sunlight and heat by always trying to park your car in the shade. If no shade is available or if you find parking under a tree results in bird droppings, use a car shade to minimise the sun’s impact. As a bonus, you’ll have a cooler car to step into on hot sunny days • Clean dash gauges carefully Use a soft, damp cloth to lightly wipe dust from the clear plastic lenses on your dashboard. Too much pressure will scratch them. Too many scratches can make it difficult to read your gauges under certain lighting conditions.

our Facebook page for Tyre Safety Tips!

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ON THE ROAD

19

THE MAGIC OF MAGIC TYRES Y our car and all the people in it depend on four pieces of rubber barely bigger than the palm of your hand and on a motor bike or scooter, it’s even less – about the size of a child’s palm. It’s a huge responsibility for a little tyre and yet it’s frightening how many of us don’t give our car’s tyres much thought, until something goes horribly wrong. And then it’s the car’s fault, or the road, or the nail in the driveway.

It’s handy to know what tyres actually do, apart from keeping the car in motion. The grooves in the tyre are there to create friction or traction and to disperse water. If it didn’t rain, we’d all be running around on slicks, the soft compound fat, smooth tyres they use in motor racing.

In general the tyre industry recommends we check the air pressure in our car’s tyres every two or three weeks, depending on use, and check the tread, the groove bits to make sure they’re not too worn.

Most new tyres come with recommended tread depth and tyre pressure and most cars will carry a recommended tyre pressure either in the handbook or fixed as a label to the inside of the car door or elsewhere. Most garages will have a list of tyre pressure

recommendations and, if there’s any doubt, go to the specialist.

Brian May from Magic Tyres says the number one problem he sees on a regular basis is badly worn tyres and wheels out of alignment which causes the car to perform inefficiently and uneconomically.

The more a tyre has to work to push a car through the air, the more fuel is used.

“A lot of people don’t look underneath the tyre either, have a look on the inside where it can be wearing out. Sometimes it’s an economic issue, they can’t afford to have the work done.”

This is despite many tyre dealers offering free assessment. and, in fact, free air in the tyres. As for economics, most tyre dealers will offer second-hand car tyres for trailers or on road cars. They mostly come from Japan originally and are little worn since the Japanese tend not to do nearly the mileage we cover here in New Zealand.

The problem of non-attention to tyre wear or not being able to afford replacements isn’t just associated with the out-of-pocket young. Brian May says it’s across the board. And his best advice?

Spend a few minutes each month to make sure the four hand prints on the road are doing the job they are designed to do efficiently and safely.

Brian May from Magic Tyres

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ON THE ROAD

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FATIGUE RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS DEVELOPING AN 'FRMS' FOR YOUR BUSINESS ew Zealand’s Transport sector has a high risk fatigue profile with work related traffic fatalities accounting for 29% of all fatal injuries in the New Zealand workplace. Department of Labour research shows that about 25% of commercial vehicles are involved in a collision each year and therefore it is particularly important that measures are put in place for fatigue management and continuous improvement.

N

Why do we need to manage fatigue ?

Fatigue is a common and unavoidable by-product of the 24/7 demands of most industry sectors. Defined as a decreased capacity to perform mental or physical work, or the subjective state in which one can no longer perform a task, fatigue manifests in physiological performance decreases and cognitive impairment. To this end, fatigue poses elevated risk to an employees safety during work and nonwork activities.

Within the existing Occupational Health and Safety legislative frameworks (Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992), fatigue is an identifiable workplace hazard that must be managed in the same way as other hazards, like chemicals and heavy machinery.

Current legislation highlights the need to provide a safe system of work, which clearly includes effective management of fatigue-related risk.

An FRMS integrates management practices, beliefs and procedures used to manage the risks of fatigue. A major component of successful implementation is the underlying culture into which an FRMS is introduced. Promoting a workplace environment in which fatiguerelated risk is managed by all individuals is essential.

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is not just feeling physically tired, it’s a state of impaired alertness, attentiveness, mental and physical performance. Fatigued employees increases work-place accidents and reduces employee productivity.

Specifically we are talking about: • reduced motor coordination • slower reaction time • loss of environmental awareness • impairment of cognitive/logical reasoning skills • and diminished ability to communicate and/or process communications and information.

In fact, scientific evidence suggests when we’re tired (or mentally fatigued) our ability to perform even the simplest of tasks is impaired to the same level as if we were legally intoxicated (Dawson and Reid, 1997) Fatigue places a significant human and financial cost on organisations in terms

of increased absenteeism, accidents, and staff turn over.

The critical factor impacting on fatigue levels is sleep - or lack of it

Who is responsible for the management of fatigue?

fatigue in your business, we would love to hear from you.

Speak to Rachel Lehen at Lowie Fatigue Management - 0800 627 763 www.lowiefatiguemanagement.co.nz

Managing fatigue is a shared responsibility between employees and employer.

Fatigue is an identifiable hazard that we know causes harm to individuals and potentially the community around them.

There is a moral obligation and under our HSE legislation, a legal requirement to effectively manage fatigue-related risk.

What is an FRMS? An FRMS is an integrated set of management practices, beliefs and procedures for monitoring and managing the risks posed to health and safety by fatigue.

Creating awareness and providing education for all employees is a key step; integrating the latest technology, such as individual bio feedback harnesses and EEG monitoring; in addition to the ‘behind the scenes’ management which includes the use of validated software to predict fatigue risk levels from schedules and also evaluate post incident/accident to measure the cost of fatigued employees on the business.

What next?

If you would like to have a chat about how we can help you to mitigate the risk of

Rachel Lehen from Lowie Fatigue Management

NORTHLAND FREIGHT GROUP

The Northland Freight Group is an interagency with ACC, Northland Regional Council, Whangarei District Council, NZTA, MBIE, Northland District Health Board, Police and CVIU working in partnership with leading Industry groups such as Smith and Davies NZ Ltd, Hancock Forest Management, Fonterra, Toll, Waste Management, Northport, MSD, MITO, Bike Northland & National Road Carriers.

The group’s agenda is firstly - road safety initiatives around heavy vehicles. These initiatives are rolled out through education, information sharing and co-ordinated pooling of resources.

As trucking play’s such a huge part in Northlands economy the agenda also includes planning, networking and information sharing.

The groups umbrella or theme for annual road safety projects is “Share the Road” this having two targets - truck drivers/ operators and other road users i.e. cars, bikes, buses and pedestrians.

Projects planned and underway for Share the Road 2014 are:

RADIO ADVERTISING • Aim at both targets with drivers tag line ‘Don’t die for a dead line’ and other road users ‘ I’m watching out for you and ask that you watch out for me.

• These radio ad’s are voiced by local truck drivers, family members along with industry mentors.

EDUCATION STOPS (Whangarei, Far North & Northport) • Aim to improve truck drivers knowledge around safer driving practices and compliance requirements • Drivers are provided with information around Vehicle Dimension and Mass rule (VDAM), work time rule, proposed changes to road user charges (RUC), 10 Below and fitness and well being.

10 BELOW • Aim to reduce heavy vehicle incidents in corners and bends • Radio adverts directed at drivers, signage at identified black spots, followed up with drinks bottles, key rings, lolly pops etc. to help carry the message home.

SHARE THE ROAD FOR SCHOOLS • Aim to raise awareness and education around road safety and heavy vehicles • A programme implemented into the curriculum of rural schools affected by road transport.

Trucks are a necessity on our road’s as it is the preferred way of moving freight around the Country.

The industry however is experiencing a driver shortage with the average age now increasing to 65.

The National Road Carriers along with various Companies and Industry representatives are looking at ways to positively promote the transport & logistics sectors to our youth in Northland.

The Group believes that with a combined effort we can target issues that affect Northland road users and their Whanau, positively promoting a safer culture for all road users, actively reducing incidents in Northland.

ON THE ROAD

21

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TRAINING SUPPORTED

BY ACC & RIDE FOREVER

K

arel Pavich has been riding motorcycles on the road, racetrack and off road for more than 35 years. In 2006 she became the first woman to win a NZ Road Racing championship, a record she still holds. She still competes successfully in Australasia, racing modern, classic and post-classic bikes.

As an NZTA certified motorcycle instructor, Karel’s “day job” is training others who share her passion for

motorcycling, to ride safely and with confidence. Pro Rider is the contracted provider for the ACC funded Ride Forever training courses from Northland to the Waikato. They are aimed purely at road riders, and Karel’s aim is to help reduce the rate of accident and injury motorcyclists are sustaining on our roads in NZ. “Even very experienced motorcyclists understand the value of learning to ride more safely, and they are reporting significant benefits from taking the courses, with cornering, braking and steering being the most valuable skills to master”.

As a result, their ability to enjoy their riding experience is greatly enhanced, and more importantly, they are reducing their risk of accident and injury. “Unfortunately, motorcycling is making the news for all the wrong reasons at the moment, so we have to turn this around. It’s just fantastic to see riders master the skills, learn to relax and ride with greater confidence.

A course like this could save their life on the road”.

KAREL PAVICH

PRO RIDER FOUNDER & INSTRUCTOR

NORTHLAND TRAINERS LANCE GOULSBRO

CHANGES TO THE MOTORCYCLING LICENCING SYSTEM WITH THE NEW COMPETENCY BASED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT (CBTA)

Lance has ridden motorcycles since he was 15 and joined the Ministry of Transport as a motorcycle officer in 1978.

He is an examiner for the motorcycle division of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, is an NZTA certified instructor and a CBTA Assessor He has an extensive background as a trainer and instructor within various government departments Northland offers an exciting variety of roads for motorcyclists, these at times can present their own challenges. And with this is mind Lance is committed to ensuring motorcyclists develop their competency levels as much as possible to keep themselves safe so they can enjoy the Northland scenery.

For training and licencing needs for the Whangarei & Kaipara contact Lance on 021 147 4344 email drivesafeltd@paradise.net.nz

LANCE GOULSBRO

WHANGAREI & KAIPARA

STEVE ROSSELL Steve began riding at 16 and has had numerous bikes over the last 40 years, both on and off road. Moving to New Zealand in 1989, he has been in the Bay of Islands for the last 17 years. Steve is an NZTA Certified Motorcycle Instructor and a CBTA Assessor.

Motorcycling is very much his passion. He loves sharing his knowledge, passion and enthusiasm with other riders.

For training and licencing needs for Kerikeri and the Far North contact Steve on 09 405 9771 or 021 0710518 STEVE ROSSELL

KERIKERI & THE FAR NORTH

On the 1st March this year NZTA introduced a new system for gaining your motorcycle licence.

What is competency-based training and assessment (CBTA)?

CBTA is a new training and assessment option for people getting their motorcycle licence. Instead of taking a practical test at each stage of your licence you can choose to have your riding skills assessed by an approved CBTA assessor.

Although training isn’t compulsory, we recommend you complete training before attempting the assessment ride. This will ensure that you have the necessary riding skills and you’re fully prepared to do the assessment.

The assessments are designed to ensure you’re competent in a prescribed range of riding skills, which are important to keep you safe when riding on our roads.

What are the benefits of CBTA? If you choose the CBTA option, there are a number of benefits: • It can reduce the time it takes you to gain your restricted and/or full

motorcycle licence • It improves your riding skill levels by targeting high-risk riding behaviours, which allows for a safer road system for you and other road users • You’ll get feedback on your riding ability and you’ll be provided with training on how to ride smarter and safer. These improvements will help you make smarter choices on the road.

The CBTA a process is as simple as • Sit and pass Basic Handling Skills Test • Pass theory to get Learner licence • Stay on learners for 6 months or complete CBTA 6R at any stage of your learner licence and go straight to Restricted licence (must be 16 ½ years of age) • Stay on Restricted for 18 months or after only 12 months complete CBTA 6F and go straight to Full licence.

For further details on training contact your local training provider

ON THE ROAD

22

ON TWO WHEELS

by Delwyn Hills

n increasing number of women are opting for two wheels. One in ten motorcyclists are women choosing to be in charge of their chosen machines. From a recreational point of view women are increasingly finding that motorcycling literally provides a new avenue for leisure time.

Women ride for fun, freedom and control and riding the highway on a cloudless day with the wind in your face can be sheer exhilaration.

Thoughts focus on nothing but keeping the bike under control, the angle to take the corners, smooth gear changes and safety at all times.

The skill required to manoeuvre these beasts keeps you more alert and alive and the sound of the engine becomes background music.

While leisure riding is on the increase, more scooters are weaving amongst the traffic as a quick, economical and practical way to buzz around the city. The petrol price increase, congestion on our roads and availability of trendy looking machines has seen an upsurge in women riding scooters.

A

Buying a bike Buying a bike can be an exciting experience. You’ll know exactly what you think looks right for you. But do your homework and get good advice.

There’s the Commuter, Performance, Adventure or Cruiser motorcycle each with its own style and features. If you want the sporty racetrack look you wouldn’t buy a cruiser. Make sure to get something easy to control, not too heavy and your feet can touch the ground easily.

sure to protect your body should the unforeseen occur.

You’ll get to know like-minded riders who may ask you to join their group for weekend rides and to discover a place to eat and chat and decide the route home. These informal get-togethers are fun.

Joining a club

GETTING YOUR CLASS 6 MOTORCYCLE LICENCE: There are three stages: • Learner – a basic handling skills and theory test. Minimum age 16 years.

• Restricted – practical riding test • Full – practical riding test Learner Approved Motorcycles Scheme (LAMS). The New Zealand Transport

Joining a club can build confidence and provide support.

WIMA (Women’s International Motorcycling Assoc) is active in New Zealand and new members from beginners to advanced are welcome.

The Club provides a network for likeminded ladies and offers support in every aspect of motorcycling. They post a ‘Rides Calendar’ on their website for the various branches throughout the country.

If you have always wanted to own and ride a motorcycle a good place to start is Pro Rider Motorcycle Training. www.prorider.co.nz/ Lance Goulsbro, an NZTA Approved Motorcycle Instructor now runs the Pro Rider training courses in Northland.

It’s all out there. Build your confidence slowly and remember ‘four wheels to move the body; two wheels to move the soul’.

Association have restrictions on the engine capacity for Learners: LAMS approved motorcycles are: • Motorcycles that have an engine capacity not exceeding 250cc and that have not been prohibited by the NZTA • Motorcycles that have an engine capacity exceeding 250cc but not exceeding 660cc and that have been approved by the NZTA. • The following groups of motorcycles are not LAMS approved: • Motorcycles that have an engine capacity not exceeding 250cc and that have been prohibited by the NZTA • Motorcycles that have an engine capacity exceeding 250cc but not exceeding 660cc, and that have not been approved by the NZTA • Motorcycles that have an engine capacity exceeding 660cc.

Full details on getting your motorcycle licence are available on www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/motorcycles/motorcycle-licence

The Right Gear.

The Right Gear. It’s all out there, glam and practical with stunning designer leather jackets and pants armoured for safety and boots to suit every taste. Gone are the days where women wear chunky ‘butch looking’ motorbike boots. Retailers are having to keep ahead of trends to attract sales and if you’re a Harley Davidson girl, you can get branded gear. If leather isn’t your preferred style there’s good range of durable synthetic fabrics and if denim is your taste, there’s Kevlar lined jeans with a protective layer in the event of a fall. Whatever the choice, make

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ON THE ROAD

23

SOUND THE SIRENS: A WOMAN IS ATTEMPTING TO PARK.

by Sandy Myhre ate last year the Mayor of the German town of Triberg introduced women-only parking spaces because, he said, women were worse at parking than men.

The wider spaces are better lit, marked with a female symbol and not next to any concrete pillars.

Mayor Gallus (rhymes with phallus) Strobel then revealed the real reason behind this considerate gesture. “While they’re at it,” he sold Der Spiegel magazine “they can see the town’s attractions.”

He suffered worldwide criticism when all he wanted to do was promote tourism and, following his comments, tourists flocked to the town to try out the parking spaces.

Meanwhile in China, the city of Shijiazhuang built a car park just for women with spaces nearly a meter wider than normal. The parks were painted in a delicate pink and light purple and according to the manager Mr Wang (rhymes with bang) Zheng, these pretty lines would appeal to women’s “strong sense of colour and different sense of distance.” Furthermore, female parking attendants were employed to guide the female drivers into their berths.

L

INTRODUCING

Given the reasoning applied to gender-specific wider parking spaces, surely having women guiding women drivers is the blind leading the blind? And women aren’t the only problem drivers in China when you consider there are more than 200 road accident deaths there every day.

It took scientists from a German university conducting research into the “spatial intelligence” of women to conclude that spatial performance (part of which involves getting a ginormous car into a ridiculously small space) is sensitive to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. It means we’re dangerous at a certain time of the month but it surely didn’t need a collegial geek on a grant to point that out. Ask any bloke. Perhaps it would be better to ban all women drivers as they do in Saudi Arabia and there’s a reason for it according to a judicial advisor to an association of Gulf psychologists.

Sheik Saleh bin Saad al-Lohaidan is reported to have suggested that if a woman drives a car not out of ‘pure necessity’ it could affect her child-bearing properties

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“Functional and physiological medical studies show that (driving) automatically affects ovaries and pushes the pelvis upwards,” he said. “That’s why we find those who regularly drive have children with clinical problems of varying degrees,” he added while not citing specific medical studies to support his argument.

A less spurious and more pragmatic approach as to why women do things differently when it comes to the motor car can be found in the book Why Men Don’t Listen And Women Can’t Read Maps’ by Australian authors Allan and Barbara Pease. It presents a scholarly hypothesis in an amusing fashion and is worth reading to be able to knowledgeably rebut some entrenched thought processes.

It makes for great dinner party fodder. After you’ve parked your backside on a pretty pink or purple chair without scraping the pillars, kick off the conversation by saying ‘women are better drivers than men’ and then sit back and wait for the spatial intelligence to sprout forth.

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ON THE ROAD

24

IC MOTOR GROUP I n the past 27 years IC Motor Group has seen women become very influential in the business of selling and servicing vehicles.

Women represent 20% of our 50 plus staff members - many of them with senior roles in the company. They’re a vital component and provide the soft feminine touch to what has been a very male orientated industry.

Our customer services department is managed by Tracey Illerbrun. Tracey is the central point of contact for all our customer queries and plays a key role in building strong relationships with our local community.

Desiree Poulson manages the Finance and Insurance side of the business arranging warranties, leases and loans for private and business customers.

Natasha “Tash” Parker is the only woman in our sales consultancy team.

She has an entirely different approach to sales and the unique ability to offer our female buyers an empathetic ear to their specific needs as the majority don’t want to know the inner workings of the engine. Questions like colour, space for handbags, built in vacuums to tidy up after the kids and how to use the reversing cameras. She helps them gain confidence to buy and be in control of the cars ongoing maintenance.

The other nine women ensure reception, administration, deliveries and valeting services are sustained to a high standard.

All in all, IC Motors has an awesome team of women who give a professional

Staff of IC Motors - Back Row from left: Debbie Ludgate, Lisa Rogers, Desiree Poulson, Kim Fraser, Julie Foster Front row from left: Emma McCullough, Khan Illerbrun, Marie Archer, Tracey Illerbrun, Natasha Parker

and friendly service that cares about every facet of the buying, selling and maintaining cars – women with a wealth

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customers – Complementary to the skills and technical expertise that our male counterparts provide.”

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