MTA Stories
MTA members are dedicated to the motor industry, however they also achieve outside of work. Here is where you will find stories on various members who have been successful in more ways than one.
Freezing works to heavy vehicle workshop – really? »
It takes a lot of vision to see that a derelict old freezing works site could be the perfect place for a purpose built heavy vehicles workshop – Lloyd Heslop and Jan Aberhart had that vision.
Thu, 23 May 2013 More ›
Otorohanga’s Mechanic-to-Mayor Dale Williams: Solutions for skills shortages in small communities »
A former motorcycle repairer and dealership owner, Otorohanga Mayor Dale Williams has effectively eliminated youth unemployment in his 10,500-strong district. Now, he’s taking his plan for business-led trades training to the rest of the country.
Wed, 20 Feb 2013 More ›
Restorations Unlimited – a labour of love »
From Rolls Royces and Ferraris to lab equipment and artificial limbs, Terry Price has fixed a lot of things during his 43 years in the paint and panel industry. He’s a man with the true Kiwi number eight wire mentality, a jack of all trades, and you’ll find him happily working away at his business in Wanganui – Restorations Unlimited.
Fri, 18 Jan 2013 More ›
How much can one person achieve in 60 years on the job? »
In 60 years, you are likely to get a lot of advice – but how do you know what will or won’t make a difference to your career? Early in his working life, Neil Phillips believes his father gave him the best tip anyone could ever receive.
Mon, 14 Jan 2013 More ›
Cambridge business still in the family – five generations later »
One business, five men over five generations. You could say the Wilkinson’s of Cambridge have a long history in the automotive industry.
Tue, 23 Oct 2012 More ›
TSS Red Baron – Revving through recession »
At a time when many New Zealand motorcycle retailers are experiencing a downturn and are either downsizing or shutting up shop, Stewart Rodwell owner of TSS Red Baron Motorcycles is rapidly expanding and growing through a tough economic climate.
Thu, 30 Aug 2012 More ›
Wellington dealer Triumphs »
Wellington Motorcycle dealer Motorad are celebrating success after being named the best dealer of Triumph motorcycles, per capita in the world.
Wed, 4 Jul 2012 More ›
Ken Stout – he’s here to help »
For many people who have been in the motor industry for a number of years, the passion began at a young age – Ken Stout was no different. “There I was in sixth form at school, headed for university with no particular direction at all. Bruce McLaren lived nearby. My father had just bought the first family car and I botched up an attempt at a tune up. Then I knew, this is what I wanted to do – to be able to fix cars. An opportunity opened up with our local garage and within two weeks I had left school and embarked upon this adventure,” said Ken.
Tue, 5 Jun 2012 More ›
Masterton member moving with the times »
All Car & Commercial Ltd of Masterton recently completed construction of their new workshop. It’s completely made of steel, making use of its light for a more pleasing aesthetic feel.
Tue, 5 Jun 2012 More ›
It pays to dream »
There wouldn’t be many people out there who have a dream based on a movie and actually turn that into a reality – a very successful reality. Dave Filer, founder and owner of Filco Farm & Sport, did just that. ‘Field of Dreams’ created the belief in Dave that he could build a business and service the agricultural sector better in Nelson – ‘build it and they will come’ being his motivational catchphrase.
Thu, 10 May 2012 More ›