| 87 AUTOMOTIVE Newport Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning Founded in 1984, the Hastings-based business has evolved considerably under its new ownership. T T Karen Phelps Hawke’s Bay automotive electrical specialist Newports has significantly expanded its service offerings, establishing a new RDA Brake Service Centre and broadening its reach into the commercial sector. “The addition of the RDA Brake Service Centre, operating under NAPA, represents a major step forward for our business,” says Chris Rooney, who, along with partner Kirsty Bewley, took over the company four years ago. “RDA Brakes is a world leader and innovator in brake components for cars and light commercial vehicles.” The expansion comes as part of the company’s certification as a NAPA Partner, enabling it to offer customers access to a comprehensive range of automotive parts through its showroom at trade pricing. “Customers have the benefit of dealing with a worldwide company, including cost-effective pricing, all on a local basis,” explains Chris. “We can order in anything, generally overnight, giving people real choice in their automotive needs.” Founded in 1984, the Hastings-based business has evolved considerably under its new ownership, introducing general vehicle servicing and employing two fully qualified EV and hybrid technicians to meet the growing demands of modern vehicles. The company has also made significant inroads into the commercial sector, particularly in horticulture, forestry, viticulture, roading, and the marine industry. “Smaller jobs are still important to us, such as fixing tail lights, windows or air- conditioning not working in a car, for the general public,” says Chris. “But we now also undertake all types of commercial jobs from small to large. Nothing is too old; nothing is too new for us to fix.” This philosophy underpins the company’s approach to servicing everything from tractors to excavators, harvesters, trucks and trailer units, horse trucks and floats and RVs to vintage cars. To support its expanding service range, it has increased its mobile capability with five on-road vehicles, and upgraded to a modern fleet. The business now employs 25 staff members, including a transport engineering division that offers full in-house design and NZTA certification services. Air-conditioning services, both mobile and in-workshop, continue to be a substantial part of the operation. The company’s expertise extends to all forms of automotive and mobile machinery air-conditioning, from private cars to commercial vehicles and agricultural equipment. One of its distinctive offerings is the design and manufacture of custom electrical harnesses and looms for customers across New Zealand. With modern braiding equipment and extensive experience, it provides specialised services for vintage cars, muscle cars and race cars. The business has earned recognition for its excellence, recently being named Battery Zone Dealer of the Year for 2024. As an authorised installer of major brands, including Hella, Narva, Eroad and Redarc Solar solutions, Chris says Newports Hawke’s Bay maintains strong industry partnerships, including operating as a Battery Zone dealer. He says while the expansion of services represents a significant evolution for the family-owned business, it remains firm in maintaining its commitment to the local community that has supported it for nearly four decades. With its comprehensive range of services and expertise spanning traditional and modern vehicle technologies, he says that Newports Hawke’s Bay will continue to strengthen its position as a leading automotive electrical specialist in the region. THE HOME OF YUASA BATTERIES INHASTINGS Newport Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning Know How to keep New Zealand moving. NAPA Auto Parts are proud to be a long standing partner with Newport Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning for specialist automotive electrical and air conditioning products. NAPA KNOW HOW TO HELP THEM DO IT. Newports expands offerings
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