58 | TRANSPORT Heavy Diesel Parts & Services T Kelly Deeks Trained technicians meet industry demands HDPS is a multi-branch operation with more than 85 staff across Christchurch, Timaru, Dunsandel, and most recently Westport, servicing the length and breadth of the South Island. “They’re running more than a dozen computers, and the level of diagnostics and electronic systems involved means our technicians need to be just as comfortable with a laptop as they are with a toolbox.” For nearly three decades, Canterbury’s Heavy Diesel Parts and Services (HDPS) has been keeping New Zealand’s transport sector moving, growing from humble beginnings to become a trusted service partner to some of the country’s largest and hardest-working vehicle fleets. Founded in 1997 by the late Andrew Bulman, the business started out as AB Mechanical Services, with Andrew operating out of the back of his ute, alongside his loyal dog Bogart. Today, HDPS is a multi-branch operation with more than 85 staff across Christchurch, Timaru, Dunsandel, and most recently Westport, servicing the length and breadth of the South Island. Current owner Jim Garters, who began his own apprenticeship under Andrew more than 30 years ago, says the business has stayed true to its roots while evolving to meet the demands of a highly technical and fast-moving industry. “Today’s trucks are extremely advanced,” he says. “They’re running more than a dozen computers, and the level of diagnostics and electronic systems involved means our technicians need to be just as comfortable with a laptop as they are with a toolbox.” That shift has seen HDPS invest heavily in training and talent development, with apprentices currently learning across a range of disciplines. The company has an in-house technical trainer, and apprentices get hands-on experience with real products through Southpac and Cummins training courses. In 2009, HDPS cemented its relationship with Cummins by purchasing the South Island branch of Cummins Engine Company. This established HDPS as the only full Cummins dealer in the greater Canterbury region, with Christchurch, Timaru and lately Westport becoming Cummins Master Dealers. Over the years, HDPS has continued to expand strategically. A satellite workshop in Dunsandel supports Synlait’s growing fleet of milk tankers, while the Timaru branch, established in 2004, was recently supplemented with a second, four-bay COF-compliant workshop adjacent to State Highway 1. In 2023, HDPS extended its reach to the West Coast, opening a full-service branch in Westport to provide much-needed support to the area’s off-highway and heavy transport operators. Beyond core servicing, HDPS also runs a dedicated engineering division capable of everything from basic light installations to full truck customisations. Its mobile engineering unit allows HDPS to bring services directly to customers, reducing downtime and improving fleet efficiency. The company also provides vehicle condition assessments (VCAs), helping customers stay on top of Certificate of Fitness (CoF) requirements. Parts supply is another key pillar of the business. As authorised distributors of Caltex and Z Energy lubricants, HDPS services a territory stretching from Ashburton to Nelson and Marlborough. It also holds service and repair contracts for key clients, including the Christchurch Airport Fire Service and Fire and Emergency New Zealand in South Canterbury. Jim says HDPS’s success lies in its commitment to quality, service, and honest business practices, and these are the legacy of Andrew Bulman’s philosophy. “Andrew always said, ‘Never send out an invoice you can’t stand behind,’ and that still guides everything we do.” As the transport sector continues to evolve, HDPS remains firmly focused on supporting its customers with round-the-clock services, industry-leading training, and a team that’s passionate about keeping New Zealand’s heavy vehicles running safely and smoothly. PROUDLY SUPPORTING HEAVY DIESEL PARTS & SERVICES Quality Parts with Professional Service at Competitive Prices www.multispares.co.nz • Truck & Trailer Parts • European & Japanese • American Parts • Jaltest Diagnostic Equipment Contact us on 0800 404 100 for your parts requirements. We think transport • Suspension spares • Trailer axle spares • Brake components • Exhaust products • Vehicle accessories • Steering parts Commercial Transport Solutions 129 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Christchurch Ph. 03 349 9202 | Fp. 0800 287 583 | Web. www.ctsltd.co.nz • Compressors • Air braking systems • EBS braking systems COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS Extensive range. Rapid delivery. • Driveline equipment • Electrical components • Fittings
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