Business South June 2025

64 | A dealership West Coast locals can rely on Situated at 12 Herbert Street in Greymouth, Coast Toyota serves a vast area stretching from Karamea to Haast. AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY Coast Toyota T T Kelly Deeks “We’re not looking to sell someone a car every few years because it will break down. We want our customers to drive vehicles they can depend on.” As the West Coast region’s only Toyota dealership, the locally owned Coast Toyota has provided reliable vehicles, expert servicing, and a deep commitment to the community for more than 40 years. Situated at 12 Herbert Street in Greymouth, Coast Toyota serves a vast area stretching from Karamea to Haast, a distance comparable to that between Auckland and Wellington. Despite being New Zealand’s smallest Toyota dealership, the company maintains a robust inventory, offering the same range of new, used, and Signature Class vehicles as the country’s largest Toyota dealerships. Coast Toyota is led by CEO Pauline Gilbert, operations and fleet sales manager Gary Nichol, and sales manager Alastair Hamilton. All three owners are West Coast locals, who have spent decades in the automotive sector, and their deep connections have helped build strong, multi-generational customer relationships, ensuring Coast Toyota remains firmly rooted in the community. “Most of our customers know at least one of us,” Alastair says. “Being Coasters ourselves, we understand the needs of our customers and the tough conditions their vehicles have to endure.” This local expertise is reflected in the dealership’s approach to sales and service. Coast Toyota’s trained technicians provide expert servicing, while a well-stocked parts department ensures customers have access to essential components and accessories. The team has grown steadily over the years, now employing a service manager, a parts assistant, and six technicians. When it comes to vehicle selection, Alastair emphasises Toyota’s reputation for durability. “Toyota vehicles are well-known for their long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance requirements,” he says. “We’re not looking to sell someone a car every few years because it will break down. We want our customers to drive vehicles they can depend on.” This philosophy extends to Coast Toyota’s used vehicle offerings, which are sourced through Toyota New Zealand’s dedicated buyers in Japan. These professionals ensure that only the highest-quality vehicles make their way to the dealership’s lot. Beyond vehicle sales and service, Coast Toyota plays an active role in the local community. The dealership supports numerous events and organisations, including Daffodil Day, the Greymouth Lions Club, and various sports teams. The company also provides a courtesy coach for local sporting and community groups, and sponsors a vehicle used by the Canterbury West Coast Rescue Helicopter. “We believe in giving back,” Alastair says. “This community has supported us for decades, and we want to do the same in return.” Coast Toyota’s ownership team has extended their automotive expertise beyond the dealership. They also operate the RAD Rental Car franchise, one of New Zealand’s largest independently owned rental networks, which has thrived for nearly 30 years. Additionally, they own Coast Tyres, Greymouth’s latest fast-fit tyre specialist, offering high-performance Cooper Tyres designed for safety and durability. With a commitment to quality, a focus on customer relationships, and a dedication to community support, Coast Toyota remains a trusted name in West Coast motoring. Whether purchasing a new car, servicing a vehicle, or renting a car for a road trip, locals know they can rely on Coast Toyota for exceptional service and expertise. Call us for your maintenance for commercial and residential. For all your plumbing, gas tting, drainage, drain cleaning & camera Proudly supporting Coast Toyota

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