News

28 November 2011

AUTOHUB XMAS BBQ / ROADSHOW

Once again, the troops hit the road very soon, and will be coming to a location hopefully close enough for you to attend.

(We already have our Livers in training, and stocking up on antacids, and panadol!)

This years events will all be held at compliance centres, following very kind offers from both VINZ and VTNZ.. We will put on some drinks, and have a BBQ, and also line up 14 vehicles from the UK for you to see and chat about.

We will also be launching a buying platform for interested people to have the ability to buy online, (right then if you want!) so hopefully there will be something for everyone.

We sincerely hope you can attend, so that we can meet face to face once more, and thank you personally for the continued loyalty.

Venues:

As usual, there will be raffle draws, for prizes on the night.

Start time is 5.30pm, Finish 8.00pm. Hope to see you soon!

CARS IN STORAGE TO BE COMPLIED.

At present we have a number of vehicles unpaid for, sitting in storage.

Those ones that are Double Digit Emission Code, and non compliable next year will need to be fully paid for by Dec 1st, or we will be forced to comply them, and forward all costs to the importers. We have been left with no choice.

If you have cars in storage, and make partial payments, then those double digit cars will be credited and released first.

In the New Year, we will be contacting the Long Overdue customers with the view to settle balances, or cash up cars to defray costs.

ETS SCHEME FOR 2012

The last forum for discussion surrounding ETS scheme for next year willl be held Dec 8th. Unfortunately I (and my staff) will be in Nelson, but IMVIA will be attending, and we hope to also have some eyes and ears there.

We will report back very soon after, but rest assured, you will face increased importation costs next year, regardless how it finally comes out.

In question are details surrounding how they will charge, what form that will be in, how and who may report on importations, whether the first 100 units are exempt, and who is actually the importer (in our case Autohub is generally the importer).

Hopefully, we will get a better idea on what, or what not Autohub can do to take some of the strain away from individuals.

Regards
John Davies

Further info contact info@autohub.co.nz

18 September 2011

ARE AUTOHUB BUYING UK CARS?

I write this note to you, to clear up any rumour which may come, regarding our interests in the UK, from people who prefer to make comments rather than speak to us directly. Well, I guess that's nothing new.

We had a goal in the UK, and the reason we haven't made a full announcement yet is because this has been a particulary complicated, and difficult task to accomplish, and we are not quite there yet.

Autohub have made no secret that we see the UK as a potential source of vehicles, which may assist us both during next year's attrition from Japan.

We don't see UK as a "cure", but more of a "band aid".

FIRSTLY:

We went there to establish a good Door to Door Logistics package, and we have succeeded.

SECONDLY:

We saw an existing buy system for NZ dealers which relied on local "traders" stalking auctions to offer cars to NZ buyers, generally with £2000 - £3000 mark up and fees added. We also saw that the UK auctions are no different from anywhere else, and vehicles presented were potentially at the lower end of market range, and presented potential risk and hazard. They don't go to auction because they are the nicest cars in the fleet!

Almost all new vehicles are sold on lease, for up to 6 years with first or second tier contracts. But when lease companies have no interest in the vehicles, or vehicles in poor repair, they are sold through auction.

We saw potential in getting access to vehicles at the source, and spent an awful lot of time and trouble, even getting to meet these companies, let alone be listened to, but we have finally broken the barrier.

These companies have strict policies of not dealing direct with a car buyer. Their company articles forbid this. The only reason we were accepted was that we proposed a very professional system to them where we acted on behalf of buyer and seller, but had no financial interest in the vehicles themselves. We wanted logistics only. We now have access to vehicles at places where no other company has previously had, and we wish to present this to you.

We will be offered good quality data and photos from these companies, to load into a single website for you to view. You will be able to purchase directly from them with a "buy now"system, with no fees or "back-handers" taken.

All we demand is to handle the whole process, and gain the logistics.....that's what we do.

SUMMING UP:

Basically, we have opened a doorway for you to look inside, should you choose. One where we must act as "minder". Up to you if you like what you see. We are not forcing anyone to enter. Good luck to you if you do....good luck to you if you don't.

If you like a vehicle, then buy it with the knowledge that this will be sold to you with absolutely no intermediary "Clip" of the ticket. Autohub must act as the conduit for purchase and payments, purely because the vendors demand this. But make no mistake....Autohub certainly have NO intention of owning any vehicles, or competing with you by purchasing vehicles for resale. Enough logistics companies have this situation covered already.

As I said, we have not quite completed our project, and are hesitant to promise anything we cannot deliver. But I am confident that we will have something for you in a couple of weeks.

I hope we can bring you something to assist, as I am sure we face hardship in the months ahead.

The UK export process is complicated, especially if we want to benefit from Zero VAT, but I am happy to discuss this with you personally.

OR...wait a little while, as we intend to bring you a nationwide "road show"where we will travel the country and display a dozen or so UK vehicles, presented in their purchased condition, with transparent costing. You will be invited to attend and see the whole thing for yourself, and discuss the market in a relaxed environment.

For further information, either email me john@autohub.co.nz, or contact Danny at danny@autohub.co.nz or 0274 443 433.

Regards

John Davies

16 September 2011

SHIPPING DATES FOR 2011 COMPLIANCE DEADLINES

You are all well aware that it is time to look at shipping schedules to get cars to New Zealand AND COMPLIED before 31st Dec. There will be no leniency given this time by Authorities

Please open the link to a spreadsheet of vessels leaving Japan, with departure, and arrival dates for you to study.

http://autohub.co.nz/pdf/AUTOHUB_LONG_SAILING_SCHEDULE_NZ.xls

It appears to me that the last safe vessel to arrive is the TRANFUTURE 6 V50 ...arriving NZ between the 1st and 5th December.

If you want to gamble on the next vessel, a Mearsk Container vessel, the arrival dates are Dec 3rd to 17th.

Be aware that we will need vehicles and documents from your agents in Japan 7 days before departure dates, to ensure bookings are accepted, so check departure carefully to work out when you need to have vehicles and docs with us.

If you need any extra advice, get in touch well before.

BE PREPARED....and instruct your agents on due dates.

This is in your hands now.

Regards

John Davies

October 2010

AUTOHUB NEWS AND INFORMATION

CHRISTCHURCH UPDATE.

1. Toyofuji has continued to support locals, by making the extra effort to use Lyttleton for discharge of vehicles. Our thanks go to them for staying loyal, without wavering. Some other shipping companies have taken a more economic stance, and were planning on dumping Christchurch cars into Wellington or Nelson.

2. We note that MOL has decided to change their minds, and make a run down to Lyttleton next vessel, and we wish to thank them also for this.
   If we are faced with vehicles being consigned to Lyttleton, but unloaded in other ports, rest assured that we will contact those affected, we will get cars to you as soon as possible, and we will absorb the losses associated with re-location.

3. Our thanks also go to all Lyttleton Port staff, and Tow companies that have pulled out all the stops to make sure vehicle deliveries continue without delays.

4. Rewards Points Donations:- As you know, we have requested that all NZ Customers donate some / all of their Autohub Rewards Points to us, and we will match their donations Dollar for Dollar.

Proceeds will be given to Red Cross Christchurch.
I want to thank those dealers who have accepted this request, and urge those who have not, to consider joining in the support.
As soon as we feel it is appropriate, I will come to Chch, to pass the funds over, and hopefully meet with as many of you as possible.

5. In the meantime, If any Christchurch customer has any suggestions as to how best we can assist over the coming period, please have a chat with Paul at the Chch Office. 03-379 6535, or Mob: 021-928 644. I cannot begin to comprehend the level of difficulty you are experiencing at present, but hope we can assist in some way.

FUEL CHARGES ON THE RISE

As you are aware, with the unrest in the world, Fuel prices are soaring. They appear to be continuing upward, maybe for some time.
I am sure that all shipping companies are reviewing fuel costs, and will all announce a BAF (Bunker Adjusted Fuel Surcharge) increase soon.
We will keep you informed, and if my guess is right and fuel surcharges arrive, we will add the increase to your invoices as a separate item, which hopefully will be reversed as soon as possible.
I am equally sure that Tow companies in N Z will be looking closely at fuel costs as well. We have had several increases in local tow charges over the last 6 months but have managed to absorb them so far.

INSURANCE CONFUSION IN JAPAN

Most people think that all vehicles coming from Japan are fully processed in Japan by Autohub. But this is not correct.
Japanese Agents are not forced to use Autohub Export services, or facilities, and so may be using their own port storage, Customs broker, De-Reg facility etc, and only use Autohub Japan for Vessel booking. In these cases, we cannot get access to take photos for Track and Trace, and we do not cover their insurance. Recently we have turned down several claims for theft, damage where vehicles remained in your agents control, and not with us.
If they were handled by us, then we would have gate in surveys, photos of the vehicles, etc, and payments for claims would have been immediately dealt with by us.
If you have concerns over any particular Agent, or situation, then contact me and we can check on your circumstances, and inform you of exactly what cover you have.
It may be too late to know this after some incident happens.

AUTOHUB CHALLENGE . (Rewards Prize up for Grabs)

Sometimes, we face some difficulties in understanding what is “ lurking” inside your cars, as inclusions, when we make NZ Customs Entries. We would hate to be wrong, and risk Customs Detentions.
Usually we put our heads together and figure out what the strange items are, contained in the Japanese Invoices……BUT…this has us beat.
Today we had a vehicle arriving, and inside at time of purchase is “ 1 unit WOOHAA”
If anyone has ever purchased, and placed a “WOOHAA” in a car, or knows what on earth a “Woohaa” is …..Then it is your lucky day !!

We have just discovered what this is, and challenge you to tell us what you think it is.
(No…it is NOT a used condom)

First correct answer sent to john@autohub.co.nz will receive a bonus of 50 Autohub Rewards Points!
A bit of humour in dark times.

That's all for now, but plenty of issues affecting you on the horizon.

September 2010

AUTOHUB CHRISTCHURCH DISASTER ASSISTANCE

I have just returned from Japan, and I am trying comprehend the scope of the disaster facing Christchurch, and sitting in my normal surroundings, cannot begin to understand your feelings right now.

Paul Carruthers, is still able to operate from our Waltham Rd Office, and on a personal level I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to him, for his continual efforts to support locals, and his constant updates to me.

Paul is offering his services to you, in any practical way he can.

Be it helping to dig out yards, help move cars, help clean up, fetch and carry,….whatever.

Please call him on 021-928 644 if you need anything.

As a company, Autohub will do anything ( and I mean “anything”) we can to help. If you face any difficulty that we might assist with, please contact either myself, or Paul.

Our office has power at present, so even if you just need a computer, a desk, even someone to talk to, or moral support, please feel free to make contact.

TO ALL OTHER UNAFFECTED AUTOHUB CUSTOMERS:

If you would consider donating Autohub Rewards Points for this cause, then Autohub will match your donation, dollar for dollar.
Our intention is to donate as much as possible to the Red Cross, so please get behind this if you can.
Contact Tony on tony@autohub.co.nz or 021-928 924 if you decide to assist.

Toyofuji - For not just abandoning Lyttleton port. They pulled out all the stops to get the vessell into Port.
Lyttleton Port Staff - For rallying around and handling the vehicles quickly and efficiently during a terrible time.

September 2010

CHRISTCHURCH DISASTER

The team at Autohub are deeply saddened by the devasting earthquake in Christchurch and our thoughts are with everyone at this time.

In an effort to assist all of our Customers during this period, we advise that any vehicles presently destined for Lyttleton will be stored at no additional cost to our Customers, until such time as delivery can be made. Should vehicles have to be delivered to a Port other than Lyttleton , we will ensure that these vehicles are eventually delivered to you without any further Transport costs.

Please do not hesitate to contact us or our South Island Rep Paul Carruthers 021-928-644 at the Autohub Christchurch Office should you need any help or assistance. The office is also available to our Christchurch Dealers should they need to take advantage of our Internet,Telephone and Fax services that are currently operational.

On a personal note Paul has extended his services to anyone who may need assistance in any matter, be it assisting in cleaning your showroom or picking up water.The damage to Autohub Office has been minimal compared to many, so he is more than happy to help anybody who needs assistance . Please give him a call and he will liase with you.

Best Regards from all at Autohub

November 2010

LASTEST NEWS ITEMS FOR NOV 2010

XMAS SHIPPING

Bookings are now being taken in Japan for vessels arriving Mid December. If you need vehicles landed before Xmas, then you need to get them booked immediately.
Autohub has secured space on “one off” vessels during December.
If you have any specific urgent requirements, please contact us without delay, and we will see what we can do.

XMAS BREAK VEHICLE DELIVERIES.

During the Xmas break, ships keep coming, cars get Unloaded, Autohub keeps open, and we will be delivering vehicles right through without fail.
If you (or your place of delivery) cannot accept vehicle deliveries, then PLEASE CALL US.
We keep working as per normal, and we have to work doubly hard to ensure our services are maintained, so please make sure we don’t waste time clearing the ports and delivering cars if access is denied. Should this happen, we will charge extra to double handle.

DIRECT CALL AT TAURANGA.

We can now offer Direct Roro vessel calls to Tauranga from Japan.
Vessel is once a month, and circuit is Osaka – Yokohama – Auckland – Tauranga – Osaka.
Now Tauranga customers can enjoy direct calls should they want to, at our standard Auckland prices.

SPECIAL CHEAP FARES TO JAPAN.

Our Rewards Points Travel Agent, has sent this notice to us.
Air New Zealand has just released a short life economy class fare to Osaka and Tokyo.
Ex AKL/WLG/CHC
Fare: NOW $1865.00 return
Travel Period: Valid for departures between 19 January – 31 March 2011
Max Stay: Return travel must commence between 2 February – 25 April 2011
Sale Ends: Tuesday 30th November 2010

Only a limited amount of seats are allocated to each flight, so don't delay...BOOK NOW
First 4 bookings receive a bottle of New Zealand Wine, compliments of United Travel New Lynn
Kind Regards
Tina Ripley
Travel Co-ordinator
P +64 9 827 4917 F +64 9 827 3261 E: tinar@unitedtravel.co.nz

REWARDS POINTS

It’s coming up to Xmas…..time to check on your Rewards Points balances, and maybe do some shopping courtesy of Autohub. Please go to our website and check out our range of gift suppliers, then notify us what you desire.
We will contact the supplier, and organise the items for you. DO NOT TRY TO NEGOTIATE WITH INDIVIDUAL SHOPKEEPERS.

XMAS PARTY INVITES

Everyone who has replied to our emails, and can attend our parties, should have received details of the venue in the post by now. If yours hasn’t arrived, please contact us immediately.
Those who have not replied at all, there is still time to register….call us if you wish to come.
Those who cannot attend, or have no wish to attend: we are sorry that we cannot catch up personally, but wish to express our warm appreciation for your past business, and hope you have a great time during Xmas Festivities.

13 September 2010

ARE YOU A REGISTERED M.V. TRADER ??

I assume you are,…… but we are getting increasing enquiry from private people to ship for them.

We have a policy of offering Trade discount to genuine Traders, and a “non trade” price for individuals, and consequently we appear to lose a fair bit of trade to other so called “dealer supportive” shipping companies. Private people continually tell us that these shipping companies are way below our price, and we lose the business…….So be it.

We will ship for private importers, but we are not prepared to offer them the same price as a RMVT, and we will continue to look after regular traders as best we can.

Here's a challenge - Try phoning us as a “private punter” sometime, and request a price…….

13 September 2010

GST RISE

Don't forget that GST on imports will rise as of Oct 1st. You will soon see an increase on our invoices.

Because Customs Clearances are completed about 10 days before ETA, and invoices sent to you about 8 days before, any cars arriving in the first few days of October will have GST charged on local items (Clearance and Tow) at 12.5% (invoice basis), but Customs GST will be at 15%, as the vehicle gets into NZ waters in October.

Try working that one out with your GST return!!

Also: those of you with NZ Customs GST DEFERRED accounts will need to allow for the extra 2.5% GST being placed into them.

We have no access to your account balances, or limits, and will process your Customs Clearances assuming that your account has sufficient credit available. So if you go over your limit….. , your customs entry will be cancelled by NZ Customs, and we will be required to do the whole process again, so will charge you for a second Customs Entry, which will delay your vehicle’s release from the port. Please ensure that you maintain your account within its limits.

13 September 2010

LATE PAYMENTS (Increase Charges)

To those customers who leave payment to the very last moment, be aware that it causes us considerable headaches, and we have been forced to increase our charges, to match our costs. Some cases are genuine, but some dealers make it their lifelong mission to wait to the very last moment to part with their funds.

To clear your cars from the ports, we are giving transport lists to tow companies 3 days before ETA, so that they can plan the removal as efficiently as possible. They work their butts off clearing cars in the 3 days available, particularly in busy cities such as Auckland and Christchurch, where traffic congestion causes huge problems. The longer you delay, the lower you go in the order of delivery. If you haven’t paid by ETA date, then you face vehicles going into storage, where you will get extra charges.

FROM OCT 1ST…..These charges will be: (Per Vehicle)

• One off Late Handling Charge - $50
• Storage/Security/Use of money/Insurance Charge - $10 per day
• Extra Tow - $45 local
• Payment of Charges required before delivery.

If you disagree with these charges, then please notify us in writing. We can, if requested, leave your vehicles on the Port until payment is made.

Our thanks go to those customers who provide timely payments….it certainly helps.

13 September 2010

CHANGES TO NZTA INFORMATION

Changes to data available from the Motor Vehicle Register are due to take effect from Nov 1st, 2010. I believe that this is the basic gist:

• You will NOT get past owner history for all private owners.
• You will get past history for Company Owners.
• You can “opt out” and have your information hidden by going to https://transact.nzta.govt.nz/transactions/PersonalInfoAccess/entry.aspx.
• If an owner has opted out, you will need to enter details you believe are correct, and receive a “yes-no” confirmation. If you are a regular user of the Register, I suggest you keep checking the website to confirm the new policy.

13 September 2010

AUTOHUB XMAS PARTIES

That time is here again!!

Crikey….where does the year go? We are planning our annual round of Xmas parties, filled with Frivolity, Prizes, and salubrious bonding. Those who have attended before will know how good these are……those who do not come certainly miss out on the one chance we have to meet and show our gratitude personally.

Dates are:

• Napier - Mon Nov 22nd
• Palm-Nth - Tues Nov 23rd
• Christchurch - Weds Nov 24th
• Dunedin - Thurs Nov 25th
• Auckland - Friday Nov 26th

Mark those dates….invites will be coming via email soon, but contact us for any info you want.

13 September 2010

CHRISTCHURCH DISASTER

Finally, …To all of our customers who are affected by the continuing series of Earthquakes, we wish to offer you our thoughts and assistance wherever possible.

On a Company Level, Autohub has donated a considerable amount to Red Cross.

On a more personal level, should your company be affected adversely, then contact us if we can help in any way. Paul Carruthers (our South Island representative) is remaining in Christchurch for the time being, and is available to chat.

May 2010

CLEARING CARS FROM PORTS

 "WE NEED YOUR HELP WITH PARKING”

To be able to shift cars from Ports efficiently, we need to be able to take them somewhere, as soon as they are free to go. Usually this is your compliance centre.

The situation (particularly in Auckland and Lyttleton) is that the Port is so congested, and traffic is so slow, that the majority of cars need to be shifted from the port, outside of normal business hours to achieve removal within the free time. An 8 car transporter, may only be able to deliver 3 trips on a Friday in Auckland (24 cars ) as “Rush Hour” is now pretty much an all day event.

The trouble we face, is that a large number of Compliance Centres now only work 5 days, 8am to 5pm, and lock the doors. Very few have after-hours access to their storage.

As we are faced with transporters working throughout the night, and weekends, just to clear the Ports within the 3 days of free parking, we really need to be able to deliver to your indicated address outside of business times.

If we don’t get your help on this, I can guarantee Demurrage Charges of $57 per day from the Port, or double handling, and storage if we use the Transporters yards to park cars. This applies to you whether you use AUTOHUB or not.

To help us: Please ask you Compliance Centre for assistance with after-hours access, and ask them to contact us if this can be made available.

Or… if we deliver direct to you, then some form of after-hours access would certainly give you faster delivery, and ensure our price is maintained.

I cannot indicate strongly enough, that we need your understanding and help with this issue.

All Transport Companies have advised us that those who pay early, and have good access to after-hours parking will get priority clearing. Others will just go into a queue.

May 2010

AUTOTALK REQUEST FOR EMAIL ADDRESSES

Autohub attended the launch of "Autotalk", the latest Free Online and Hard Copy magazine for Car Dealers. We were impressed by the professionalism, and relevant content of the magazine. Autotalk has requested that we supply them a list of email addresses of our customers, in order to send them the latest issues by email.

Posted monthly Hard Copies are Free, and all are a good read.

We take our data security very seriously, but saw only benefits to you to be included in their mailing list, so we are happy to suggest that you email them for inclusion (if you are not yet a member).

Contact : alert@autotalk.co.nz.

May 2010

AUCKLAND STEVEDORS USE FORKLIFT

AUTOHUB recently became aware that a certain Stevedore Company at Auckland Port, took it on itself to use a forklift to move approx. 37 vehicles just a few metres by forklift. We investigated, obtained video evidence, and found that the Stevedors acted negligently, without due care, and totally inappropriately. We find no excuse whatsoever to use forklifts on ports for fully mobile vehicles, and consequently we are seeking damages from the company in question.

We have the full support of Ports of Auckland and Shipping Companies.

Only some of the vehicles concerned were shipped by AUTOHUB, and about 30 units were shipped by other logistics suppliers. We have no knowledge of compensation being sought by those other providers.

All of AUTOHUB customers affected have been notified, and claims for damage are being actioned.

May 2010

LTA Implements “Flagging” changes At Long Last.

Note: This bulletin comes courtesy of the IMVIA, who work quietly, and tirelessly to improve Importers lives.

NZTA has advised changes to the "Damage-Flag" policy. The changes were implemented on 3 May 2010.

The changes include:

• Clarifying the procedure for Repair Certifiers to recommend the removal of Damage-Flags.
• Establishing practical criteria for minor rust damage cleaning & treating.
• Permitting certain "single-panel" structural repairs to have the flag removed.

AUTOHUB believe that MAF officers conducting the “Border Check” are now instructed to “Flag” vehicles only when they are sure of rust or damage is structural. In cases where they only suspect a problem, they should not flag, but leave it to the Compliance Process in NZ to decide.

Most Importers should notice a definite change for the good as from now.

December 14th, 2009

NEW WEBSITE & TRACK & TRACE LOGIN

Those who have been to www.autohub.co.nz will notice things have changed.

Firstly, customers who wish to go into "MY AUTOHUB" for Tack and Trace now need to use your email address as Login ID, and then your Old Password (which is still current).

If you click on "Forgotten Password", you will be issued a new (complicated) password to use, but still need to enter your email address as ID. Then, once into your secure area, you can change your password to an easily remembered one.

The new site is a "work in progress" and we are continuing to upgrade services provided.

Contact us if you want some help.

December 14th, 2009

FIRE ON BOARD CAUSING DELAYS

The Maersk Duffield (ETA Auckland Dec 14th) has had an engine room explosion, and subsequent Fire. All Cargo is being discharged into Brisbane Port.

We have contacted all importers by telephone and informed them of the situation. A replacement vessel is being sought, and we will update affected dealers as soon as we hear, but at least one weeks delay is to be expected.

December 14th, 2009

LATE PAYMENTS

The silly season is upon us, and all ports are getting "Chokka Block".

Our job of clearing cars off, quickly and efficiently, is definitely put to the test. Cars get blocked in, lost, keys go missing, and anything that can go wrong, does.

If you give any thoughts to leaving our payments to the last possible minute, then please expect to be placed well down the delivery queue.

This time of year, with traffic at a standstill, and tow companies pulling their hair out, it's "first in best dressed".

Please, don't make our job harder by delaying your payments. If you foresee cash flow difficulties, or you might be away on holidays, then PLEASE contact us ahead of time, so we can handle things as best as possible.

Don't forget....you can always use your Credit Card for payment, which can be done "on-line" through My Autohub.

December 14th, 2009

RISKY PURCHASES

Once again, I can only warn those customers who purchase faulty cars from Agents such as Tau, that you face extra charges. Port Handlers in Japan are on extreme time frames for loading, and they just don't muck around with cars that are damaged / non running.

They make the call whether to tow, or fork-lift, and we have no say in the matter. Should they use these methods, then you will be charged. The extra fees are between $450 - $850.

Do not try to make this our fault....If we have to pay....then you have to pay. Any issues with that, please take the matter up with your agent.

December 14th, 2009

XMAS HOURS FOR AUTOHUB

AUTOHUB will remain open throughout the holiday period, apart from Stat days. For us, it's business as usual, and ships continue to arrive.

But, you can expect some delays with ports, tow companies, Compliance Yards etc generally working with less staff than usual. Your understanding will be appreciated.

December 14th, 2009

AUTOHUB NEW REPRESENTATIVE

We are delighted to inform North Island Customers that we have engaged Blair Howard to spread the word for us. Life was getting too hard for Paul to handle the whole country on his own, as our customer base is getting up around to 1100 dealers.

Paul will continue to visit customers, but mainly in the South Island, and Blair will take on the North Island.

Their main goal is to visit as many Autohub Customers as possible, and ensure that we maintain your best interests, with as best service as possible. They will be our conduit to you. We are trying hard to remain as "personal" as possible.

Any feedback would be welcome.

December 14th, 2009

XMAS PARTY ROUNDUP

The AUTOHUB Annual Knees-up, held around NZ went off extremely well. All who attended had a great time, and we were pleased to catch up with so many customers, and wish them well.

Prizes of TV's, Stereo Systems, and Digital Cameras were given, and we wish the winners all the very best, and hope they enjoy their gifts.

Miss "Lucky". Miyako San from Maiax Corp in Christchurch, won first prize for the second year in a row. Congratulations.

December 14th, 2009

2009 ROUNDUP

This year certainly set some fairly hard tasks, but maybe we come through better prepared for 2010. I certainly hope so.

We, at Autohub, certainly wish you the very best for Xmas, New Year, and the rest of 2010.

Best Regards
John, Andrea, Tony, Robin, Barbara, Lisa Judy, Paul, and Blair

021-928 924 / (09) 411-7425
john@autohub.co.nz

October 22nd, 2009

SPACE ON SHIPS TIGHT PRIOR TO XMAS

Once again...it was looking like space was becoming an issue for cars to arrive before Xmas. New car sales have risen, and Manufacturers are booking heavily over the next few weeks, in order to supply demand into the new year. Roro bookings of used cars (Japan-NZ ) are already being turned down, and Containers are still getting "parked" up in Malaysia / Singapore. Due to longer transit times these days (23-28 days), this could be a concern if you want cars befrore Xmas (especially with new diesel restrictions starting Jan 1st).

DON'T GET CAUGHT!

Many dealers are preparing early, and we already have 1400 cars booked for November departure. The last thing we want is "no space" so we have been petitioning strongly for another vessel, and we have just received success.

WE CAN GUARANTEE SPACE BEFORE XMAS

We have obtained use of a decent sized vessel departing Japan end of 2nd week November, arriving 1st-2nd week of December.

This is a One Off.

Call for info. Even if you don't regularly ship with us, we welcome your enquiry.

Aug 28th, 2009

IMPORTANT EMISSION LAW RULING

The Minister of Transport has replied to submissions made by various parties, to defer or change the next stages of Emission Standards for Imported cars. These are to be in 2010 for diesels, and 2012 for Gasoline. Basically, the Minister has refused to consider any alteration whatsoever. This is a disappointment to all, I am sure. Maybe time for ALL of you to make your feelings known to your local MP.

Statement From the Ministers Office Reads:

28 August 2009 Media Statement

NO DELAY TO VEHICLE EMISSIONS STANDARDS

Transport Minister Steven Joyce today announced that after careful consideration, the government has decided the requirements for used diesel vehicles to meet minimum emissions standards set out in the 2007 Vehicle Exhaust Emissions Rule (Emissions Rule) will not be delayed. From January 2010, used diesel vehicles will need to meet a standard known as Japan 05 for harmful exhaust emissions. Used vehicle importers had called for the implementation of this standard to be delayed to improve flagging sales. “Emissions standards are important for ensuring we are in step with the rest of the world in reducing harmful exhaust emissions,” says Mr Joyce.

“The government has received correspondence both for and against this issue, with new vehicle importers and vehicle user representatives favouring the current timetable,” says Mr Joyce. “On balance, and to provide certainty to the industry as a whole, we have decided not to delay the existing timetable. This will retain the current balance of responsibility for harmful emissions between new and used vehicle importers. “I have considerable sympathy for the motor vehicle industry as a whole at this time. That is one reason why the government will not be advancing the previously proposed vehicle fuel economy standard.”

Media contact: Anita Ferguson 021 243 1623

Any discussion may be directed to:
John Davies
021-928 924 / (09) 411-7425
john@autohub.co.nz