The History of the New Zealand Car Industry


The history of the New Zealand car industry is a fascinating story that spans over a century. From the early days of horse-drawn carriages to the modern era of electric vehicles, the New Zealand car industry has come a long way. In this article, we will explore the history of the New Zealand car industry and its evolution over time.

Early Days of the New Zealand Car Industry

The early days of the New Zealand car industry date back to the early 1900s. The first car assembled in New Zealand was the Colonial Motor Company’s “Colonial Model” in 1902. The car was built using imported components, and it was the beginning of the country’s car manufacturing industry.

In the early years, most of the cars were imported as completely built units, mainly from the United Kingdom and the United States. However, the import of complete cars was limited by high tariffs, and local car assembly became more viable.

Growth and Development of the New Zealand Car Industry

The growth and development of the New Zealand car industry began in the 1920s when the government introduced tariffs to encourage local car production. This led to the establishment of car assembly plants by major manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler.

During the 1930s, New Zealand experienced a depression, and the car industry suffered a significant decline. However, the industry recovered during World War II, when car assembly plants shifted their production to military vehicles and equipment.

Post-War Era and the 1960s

In the post-war era, the New Zealand car industry experienced a period of rapid growth. The 1950s and 1960s saw the introduction of new car models and brands such as the Holden, Morris, and Hillman.

The 1960s was a significant period for the New Zealand car industry, with the introduction of local car models such as the Ford Cortina, the Holden Torana, and the Chrysler Valiant. The decade also saw the establishment of local car manufacturers such as Todd Motors and Motor Holdings.

The Decline of the New Zealand Car Industry

The 1970s and 1980s saw a decline in the New Zealand car industry, mainly due to the liberalization of the economy and the removal of tariffs on imported cars. The market share of locally produced cars declined, and many local car assembly plants closed down.

In the 1990s, the New Zealand car industry underwent significant changes, with the introduction of new brands such as Honda, Toyota, and Mazda. The 2000s saw the growth of the SUV market, and the introduction of new models such as the Nissan X-Trail, Toyota RAV4, and the Mitsubishi Outlander.

The Modern Era of the New Zealand Car Industry

In the modern era, the New Zealand car industry is focused on electric vehicles and sustainable transport. New Zealand has set a target of having 64,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2021. Major car manufacturers such as Tesla, Nissan, and BMW have introduced electric cars in the New Zealand market.

The New Zealand car industry has come a long way since the early days of horse-drawn carriages. The industry has experienced significant changes and challenges over the years, from the growth and development to the decline and the modern era of sustainable transport. Despite the challenges, the New Zealand car industry continues to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of the market.

What are the Costs and Options to Ship a Car Long Distance


If you are planning to move long-distance or purchase a car from another state, shipping your vehicle can be a cost-effective and convenient option. Shipping a classic or sports car can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make the process hassle-free.

In this article, we will explore the different options available to ship a car and the costs associated with them.

Option 1: Open Transport

Open transport is the most common and cost-effective way to ship a car. In this method, your car is transported on an open-air carrier, along with several other vehicles. Open transport is generally safe, but your car will be exposed to the elements, including dust, rain, and debris.

The cost of shipping a car via open transport depends on the distance and the size of the vehicle. For a distance of 1500 kilometres, the cost can range from $600 to $1500.

Option 2: Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport is a more expensive option, but it offers better protection for your car. In this method, your car is transported in a covered carrier, protecting it from the elements and potential damage.

The cost of shipping a car via enclosed transport is higher than open transport, and it can range from $1500 to $3500 for a distance of 1500 kilometres.

Option 3: Terminal-to-Terminal Transport

Terminal-to-terminal transport is a cost-effective option for those who don’t require door-to-door service. In this method, your car is dropped off at a terminal, and it will be transported to another terminal near your destination.

The cost of shipping a car via terminal-to-terminal transport can be as low as $500, but it may vary depending on the distance and the terminal’s location.

Option 4: Door-to-Terminal Transport

Door-to-Terminal transport or vice versa can be an alternate option that is also cost effective. It can be a convenient option if you live close to a terminal as the car w ill be picked up from your location and delivered to your terminal of choice. Although this option requires the added expense of having to make your own way to the terminal and also the time spent traveling. The cost of shipping a car via door-to-terminal transport can range from $500 to $1200 for a distance of 1500 kilometers.

Shipping your pride and joy long distance can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make the process hassle-free. The cost of shipping a car depends on the distance, the type of transport, and the size of the vehicle. When you compare car transport, consider the cost, convenience, and the level of protection for your car. With the right shipping option, you can ensure that your car arrives safely and in good condition at your destination.

Exploring New Zealand’s Best Driving Roads


New Zealand is a country with stunning landscapes, breathtaking views, and a rich culture. Its winding roads, rolling hills, and majestic mountains make it a paradise for driving enthusiasts. From the curvy, scenic drives to the challenging off-road tracks, New Zealand has it all.

In this article, we will explore some of the best driving roads in New Zealand that offer the perfect combination of thrill, adventure, and stunning views.

  1. State Highway 6 (SH6) – Queenstown to Wanaka

Starting from Queenstown, SH6 is a 65 km long stretch of road that takes you to the scenic town of Wanaka. The road takes you through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Lake Wakatipu, the Crown Range, and the Cardrona Valley.

  1. Arthur’s Pass – Christchurch to Greymouth

Arthur’s Pass is a mountain pass in the Southern Alps of the South Island of New Zealand. The road takes you through spectacular scenery, including the Otira Viaduct and the Arthur’s Pass National Park.

  1. Milford Road – Te Anau to Milford Sound

The Milford Road is a 120 km long stretch of road that takes you from the town of Te Anau to Milford Sound. The road takes you through the Fiordland National Park, offering stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.

  1. The Forgotten World Highway – Stratford to Taumarunui

The Forgotten World Highway is a remote, winding road that takes you through the stunning Taranaki region of New Zealand. The road takes you through the scenic mountains, rugged landscapes, and rolling hills.

  1. Crown Range Road – Queenstown to Wanaka

The Crown Range Road is a 50 km long road that takes you from Queenstown to Wanaka. The road takes you through the Crown Range, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes.

There you have it, New Zealand is a country that is meant to be explored by car. Its stunning landscapes, challenging roads, and scenic routes offer the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the country in all its glory. Whether you are a seasoned driver or a casual traveler, there is something for everyone in New Zealand’s best driving roads. So pack your bags, grab your car keys, and embark on a journey on the open road.

Motoring Events in New Zealand


New Zealand is a country known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. It is also a country with a thriving motoring culture, hosting a variety of motoring events throughout the year. From classic car shows to high-octane motorsport races, there is something for every petrolhead in New Zealand.

One of the most popular motoring events in New Zealand is the Leadfoot Festival. Held annually in Hahei on the Coromandel Peninsula, the Leadfoot Festival is a celebration of all things motorsport. The festival is the brainchild of Kiwi racing legend Rod Millen, who built a private racetrack on his property in Hahei. The festival features a wide range of vehicles, from classic cars and motorcycles to high-performance racing cars and even off-road vehicles. Attendees can watch the action from the sidelines or take part in the event themselves, with opportunities for hillclimbs and time trials.

Another must-see event for motorsport enthusiasts is the New Zealand Grand Prix. This historic race has been held since 1950 and is the oldest motorsport event in New Zealand. The race is part of the Toyota Racing Series and attracts drivers from all over the world. The Grand Prix is held at the Manfeild Circuit in Feilding, which is considered one of the best racing circuits in the country.

For fans of classic cars, the Beach Hop is an event not to be missed. Held in Whangamata on the Coromandel Peninsula, the Beach Hop is a celebration of all things vintage. The event features a range of classic cars, hot rods, and motorcycles, as well as live music and other entertainment. Attendees can also take part in a range of activities, including cruises along the beach, car shows, and burnout competitions.

In addition to these major events, New Zealand also hosts a variety of smaller-scale motorsport events throughout the year. These include autocross races, drag racing events, and car shows. One popular event is the Chrome Expression Session, held in Christchurch. This event features a range of custom-built cars and motorcycles, as well as live music and other entertainment.

Overall, New Zealand is a fantastic destination for motoring enthusiasts. With a wide range of events held throughout the year, there is always something exciting happening for petrolheads. Whether you are a fan of classic cars, high-speed racing, or off-road adventures, there is sure to be an event that will get your motor running.