AUCKLAND, New Zealand — Vorsprung Automobil, an independent workshop in Rosedale, delivers a new standard of European automotive care on Auckland’s North Shore. Founded by master technician Eben Van der Vyver, the company provides Audi service and, for Volkswagen, BMW, and Porsche owners, offers a true dealership alternative by combining factory-level diagnostics with the personalised service and transparency of a family-owned business.

As European vehicles become more complex, the gap between general mechanics and franchise dealerships has grown. Vorsprung Automobil addresses this by using manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools, including ODIS for VW and Audi, and following factory repair methods. This approach maintains warranties and ensures vehicles perform as designed.

“We established Vorsprung Automobil to bring the philosophy of ‘Advancement through Technology’ to the workshop floor,” says Eben Van der Vyver, founder and owner. “Our goal is to offer Auckland drivers the technical precision of a main dealer, along with honest communication and fair pricing that only an independent specialist can provide.”

Key Services and Capabilities:

Manufacturer-Specific Diagnostics: Using dealership-grade software and hardware to accurately diagnose complex electronic and mechanical faults.

Performance Tuning: As an authorized Eurotune agent, providing ECU remapping for safe, reliable power and improved fuel efficiency.

Pre-Purchase Inspections: Offering comprehensive vehicle assessments at the seller’s location or dealership, giving buyers unbiased technical information before purchase.

Logbook Servicing: Providing full maintenance that protects new car warranties, using genuine or OEM-equivalent parts from reputable suppliers such as Hengst and Brembo.

The workshop, located in the Albany/Rosedale business district, serves the Volkswagen Group (Audi, VW, Skoda, SEAT, Porsche) and other premium European brands, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

With a background in training from Volkswagen and Audi in South Africa and extensive experience as a certified diagnostician, Van der Vyver leads a team committed to maintaining the longevity and performance of high-end vehicles, providing premium quality,” adds Van der Vyver. “We are here to prove that you can actually gain quality through direct access to the technician working on your car and a passion for engineering that goes into every repair.”

Vorsprung Automobil is open Monday to Friday and welcomes new clients seeking a higher standard of care for their European vehicles.

About Vorsprung Automobil

Vorsprung Automobil is an independent automotive workshop in Rosedale, Auckland, specialising in European vehicles. The company offers comprehensive maintenance, car air conditioning repair, and performance tuning services. Founded on technical excellence and customer transparency, Vorsprung Automobil uses factory-level equipment to deliver dealership-quality results at independent prices.

Contact:

Eben Van der Vyver
Owner, Vorsprung Automobil
Phone: 09 394 4533
Email: service@vorsprungautomobil.co.nz
Website: www.vorsprungautomobil.co.nz

Address: 28C Parkway Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632

As the cost of living continues to bite, many New Zealanders are making tough decisions about where they spend their money. According to Darren, owner of Ultimate Automotive, one trend is becoming increasingly common and worrying.

“People are delaying maintenance they know needs to be done,” Darren says. “They might save a few hundred dollars today, but that decision can easily turn into a repair bill in the thousands down the track.”

It’s a pattern he’s seen before.

A Familiar Pattern from the GFC

With Ultimate Automotive approaching its 20-year anniversary, Darren has seen multiple economic cycles - and what’s happening now feels very familiar.

“We saw the exact same behaviour during the Global Financial Crisis in 2008,” he explains. “People could afford to get a Warrant of Fitness, but they couldn’t afford to service the engine or deal with preventative maintenance.”

The result?  Small, manageable issues turning into major mechanical failures.

Why Skipping Maintenance Is a False Economy

Darren says many of the biggest repair bills Ultimate Automotive sees start with something relatively minor.

“Engines and transmissions don’t usually fail overnight,” he says. “It’s often a build-up - missed servicing, ignored warning signs, worn components that weren’t addressed early.”

Common examples include:

• Engine failures caused by poor lubrication or overdue servicing
• Transmission failures due to neglected fluid changes
• Cooling system issues leading to overheating and engine damage
   

“These are the jobs that hurt financially,” Darren says. “They’re the ones that could often have been avoided with smaller, earlier repairs.”

A Knowledge Gap, Not Just a Cost Issue

One of the challenges Darren and his team face is that many people simply don’t understand what’s happening under the bonnet.

“Cars are complex, and if you don’t deal with them every day, it’s hard to know what’s urgent and what isn’t,” he says. “That can make people hesitant - or even suspicious - about recommended work.”

That’s why Ultimate Automotive takes a hands-on, transparent approach.

“We don’t just tell people what needs doing,” Darren explains. “We show them. We take them under the bonnet, explain what the part does, why it’s failing, and what will happen if it’s left.”

For many customers, that clarity makes all the difference.

Making Repairs More Manageable

Darren understands that affordability is a real concern right now - and Ultimate Automotive actively works to make maintenance more achievable.

“We’re always looking for cost-effective repair options,” he says. “That might mean prioritising work, staging repairs, or helping customers understand what genuinely can wait and what really can’t.”

The goal is to keep cars reliable, safe, and affordable to run over the long term.

After nearly two decades in business, Darren’s advice is simple:

“If you look after the small things, the big things usually don’t happen.”

Regular servicing, early intervention, and honest conversations can:

• Extend the life of your engine and transmission
• Reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns
• Save thousands in avoidable repair costs
   

“In tough economic times, preventative maintenance matters more than ever,” Darren says. “It’s about protecting what’s often your second biggest investment.”

As Ultimate Automotive approaches its 20th year in business, the team continues to rely on the same principles that have carried them through previous downturns: transparency, education, and practical solutions.

“We’re here to help people make informed decisions,” Darren says. “Not just for today — but for the long run.”

When most drivers think about window tinting, they usually focus on the side windows for privacy and heat reduction. But the windshield — the largest piece of glass in your vehicle — is actually the main source of heat, glare, and UV exposure while you drive.

Clear, ceramic windshield tinting is becoming one of the most recommended upgrades for comfort, safety, and long-term protection.

Your Windshield Lets in the Most Heat

Even if your side windows are tinted, the majority of heat still enters the vehicle through the front. The windshield’s size and angle mean it absorbs the most sunlight, especially infrared (IR) heat.

A premium ceramic windshield film can block a significant amount of this IR heat, helping keep your cabin much cooler. This reduces the need for heavy air-conditioning use, improves efficiency, and gives you a more comfortable drive year-round.

Protection From UV Rays

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation passes through untreated windshields and can cause:

• Skin aging and damage over time
• Increased risk of sun exposure during long drives
• Fading and cracking to your dashboard and interior materials

A high-quality ceramic windshield tint blocks up to 99% of UV rays, offering essential protection for your skin and your vehicle’s interior without changing the appearance of the glass.

A Clear Tint That Does Not Impact on Visibility

Windshield tinting no longer means dark shades or poor visibility. Modern ceramic films are:

• Crystal clear
• Non-reflective
• Fully compliant with NZ regulations
• They don’t affect night-time driving visibility and are designed specifically for safety-critical glass like windshields.

Reduced Glare = Safer Driving

Sun glare and oncoming headlights are major contributors to driver fatigue.
A clear ceramic tint provides:

• Improved visual comfort
• Better focus during daytime driving
• Reduced strain during night driving

It’s a small upgrade that can make a big difference in long-distance driving comfort.

Long-Term Cost Saving

Windshield tinting is a long-term investment that protects both you and your vehicle. With less heat entering your car, your air-conditioning system works more efficiently. Your dashboard and interior materials are also far less likely to fade, crack, or warp — saving you from expensive repairs later on.

Why Drivers in Auckland Are Choosing Windshield Tinting

As temperatures rise and UV levels remain high throughout the year, more Auckland drivers are adding clear ceramic windshield tinting when booking their car window tint. The result?
Better comfort, better protection, and a noticeably cooler cabin.

Final Thoughts

If you’re already tinting your side windows, don’t overlook the glass that impacts you the most. A clear ceramic windshield tint provides unmatched heat rejection, UV protection, glare reduction, and comfort — all while staying legal and completely transparent.

For drivers who want maximum performance from their tint, the windshield is the first place to start.

Leave Us A Message At HLWrap To Learn More!

Do you have a vehicle that’s damaged, failed its Warrant of Fitness (WOF), or has been written off? Such cars can quickly become an eyesore and take up valuable space in your garage.

With the growing number of end-of-life vehicles in New Zealand, responsible and sustainable car disposal has become more important than ever. National Car Removal & Car Parts Ltd helps residents recycle their old or damaged vehicles responsibly by offering free vehicle removal and cash for scrap vehicles.

Why Choose National Car Removal & Car Parts?

Over 15 Years of Experience: Our team has extensive experience in car wrecking, ensuring your vehicle is handled professionally.
Environmentally Responsible: We dismantle and recycle vehicles according to strict New Zealand government guidelines. Functional components such as engines, transmissions, and electrical parts are safely removed and sold as genuine second-hand parts, giving others affordable access while reducing environmental impact.
Wide Vehicle Acceptance: We buy cars, trucks, utes, 4WDs, and all other types of vehicles. Payments range from $300 to $15,000, depending on the make, model, and year.

How to Sell Your Vehicle

Selling your vehicle is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps:

Get in Touch: Contact our team to get a quote and share your vehicle details, including registration number, make, model, year, and pickup location. We will check these details and provide the best quote.
Accept Our Offer: Once you accept our offer, we will schedule the pickup at a time convenient for you.
Vehicle Removal: We remove your vehicle on the same day, usually within 60 minutes.

Our Service Areas

We offer cash for cars, free car removal, and car wrecking services across Auckland and the wider North Island. Available 6 days a week, we ensure a fast, hassle-free process.

Auckland Region

East Auckland: Pakuranga, Flat Bush, Botany Downs, Howick, Highland Park, Bucklands Beach, Panmure, and more.
South Auckland: Mangere, Manukau, Manurewa, Papatoetoe, Otara, Wiri, Takanini, Papakura, Karaka, Pukekohe, Waiuku.
West Auckland: Glen Eden, Henderson, Kelston, Massey, New Lynn, Waitakere, Titirangi, and more.
North Shore: Albany, Devonport, Glenfield, Rosedale, Takapuna, Mairangi Bay, and surrounding suburbs.

Other Regions

Hamilton & Waikato: Free pickup and cash for cars in Hamilton, Rototuna, and surrounding areas.
Northland: Free car removal Whangarei and the wider Northland region.
Tauranga: Scrap car removal and cash for cars Tauranga.

Car Wrecking Services

We provide professional car wrecking services in the following regions:

Car Wreckers South Auckland
Car Wreckers West Auckland
Car Wreckers North Shore
Car Wreckers Whangarei
Car Wreckers Hamilton
Car Wreckers Tauranga

Why Choose Us?

Fast Cash: Receive payment on the same day.
Convenience: Free vehicle pickup, no need to advertise.
Fair Prices: Competitive rates based on your vehicle’s condition.
Hassle-Free Process: Quick and straightforward with no hidden charges.

Recent Purchases

Check out some of our recent vehicle purchases here: Recent Purchases

Do you have an unwanted car that's taking up space in your driveway and becoming an eyesore? If you're wondering what to do with it, you're not alone- Many people want to get rid of their unwanted cars. Whether it's an it's an old, damaged, or accident-prone car, dealing with these types of vehicles can often be stressful. Selling these types of cars to certified buyers is the fastest and easiest solution. You not only get instant cash, your vehicle is recycled environmentally and supports the New Zealand environment. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve created a list of the top auto wreckers in New Zealand.

Scrap My Car

Scrap My Car offers nationwide car and truck removal service. They offer an instant quote, same-day removal and pay cash on the spot. From small old cars, to large trucks, they handle all. Their process is simple, fast, and eco-friendly, ensuring your vehicle is disposed of responsibly while you get the money you deserve.

National Car Parts

National Car Parts based in Auckland, is one of the largest car wreckers in the region. They buy cars, vans, trucks, and SUVs in any condition. Whether your vehicle has failed WOF, is damaged, or simply no longer wanted, they offer top cash with free removal in Auckland. Additionally, they sell a vast collection of used car parts for any make & model.

Otago Car Removal

Serving Otago and Southland, including Dunedin, Queenstown, Gore, and Invercargill, Otago Car Removal makes selling a vehicle easy. They purchase cars and trucks in any condition, paying up to $12,000, with free removal. They also provide quality used car parts at a very genuine price range.

Car Removal and Truck Buyers – Easy, Stress-Free Service

If you're looking for stress-free service, Car Removal is a straightforward option for quick cash and easy pickup across New Zealand.

For those looking for trucks specifically, Truck Buyers specialises in buying all types of trucks. They provide competitive offers and free towing, making the process smooth and reliable.

Cash-4-Cars, Sell Car for Cash, Cash for Trucks, and Top Cash for Cars

Several other top auto wreckers provide fast, reliable, and nationwide service:

Cash-4-Cars covers Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Northland with instant quotes and payouts up to $11,999.
Sell Car for Cash makes it easy to get a fair price with minimal paperwork.
Cash for Trucks specializes in trucks, offering up to $12,000 and eco-friendly removal across the country.
Top Cash for Cars has years of experience, thousands of satisfied customers, and provides same-day removal with competitive cash offers.

Why Choose a Professional Auto Wrecker?

Selling your vehicle to a trustworthy certified service is more environmentally friendly than private selling. You can save time, avoid negotiations with strangers, and receive instant cash. Most wreckers also handle registration cancellation and provide environmentally friendly disposal of vehicles, including recycling parts and fluids.

No matter where you are in New Zealand—Auckland, Otago, or nationwide—you can find a top auto wrecker from this list to turn your old car or truck into cash today. Get in touch with the service that fits your vehicle type and location and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free process.

Owning a European car is not just a mode of transportation; it's an experience. It’s about a finely-tuned machine with a legacy of engineering excellence, advanced technology, and a driving feel that’s truly unique. But when it comes to service and repair, you might wonder: Is a regular mechanic enough, or do you need a specialist?

The short answer is that a general mechanic can handle some basic tasks like oil changes and brake replacements. However, a European car service Auckland, such as Vorsprung Automobil is a master of its craft, capable of handling complex tasks, such as diagnosing and repairing issues with direct-injection systems or performing manufacturer-specific programming.

Think of it like this: you wouldn't go to a general practitioner for a complex heart surgery; you'd go to a cardiologist. The same logic applies to your European vehicle.

So, what makes a European car specialist different? Let's pop the hood and take a closer look.

1. They Speak the Same Language as Your Car

European cars—like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Volvo—are known for their distinctive design features, complex electrical systems, and brand-specific engineering.

A general mechanic might see a bunch of wires and sensors. Still, a European car specialist understands the intricate dance happening beneath the surface through car inspection in Auckland.

They have specialized training that goes deep into the specific systems of these vehicles. This includes everything from advanced engine technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing to sophisticated suspension and transmission systems. They're fluent in the language of your car, which means they can quickly and accurately diagnose issues that would leave a general mechanic scratching their head.

2. They have the Right Tools for the job

European cars often require unique tools and diagnostic software that a standard auto shop typically lacks. For example, a specialist will have sophisticated diagnostic scanners that can accurately interpret complex vehicle data, identify problems in intricate systems, and even perform manufacturer-specific programming.

This isn't just about convenience; it's about precision. Using the wrong tools can lead to inaccurate diagnoses and potentially damage delicate components. A European car specialist's garage is a treasure trove of the right equipment, ensuring that every job, from a simple oil change to a major repair, is done correctly and efficiently.

3. They Use the Correct Parts

When you own a premium car, you want to maintain its premium status. European car specialists understand this and have access to genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. These parts are specifically designed for your vehicle, ensuring the perfect fit, function, and longevity. By using these parts, a specialist can guarantee that your car's performance, safety, and warranty are not compromised.

While aftermarket parts might be cheaper, they can compromise your car's performance, safety, and even its warranty. A specialist will always prioritize using the right parts and fluids, which is crucial for maintaining the high-quality standards set by European manufacturers.

4. They're Passionate About Your Car's Performance

For a European car specialist, it's more than just a job—it's a passion. They appreciate the artistry and engineering that go into these vehicles and are dedicated to keeping them running at their peak.

This passion translates into meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to providing a level of service that meets the high standards of the car itself.

They’re not just fixing a problem; they're preserving the performance, handling, and safety that you love about your car. This commitment to excellence often means they'll spot potential issues before they become major, costly repairs, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

The Bottom Line

While a general mechanic might seem like a more convenient or affordable option for some tasks, the expertise, specialized tools, and dedication of a European car specialist are invaluable.

They ensure your vehicle receives the care it needs to maintain its performance, safety, and resale value. In the long run, their precision and attention to detail can save you money by preventing major, costly repairs.

So, if you're looking for someone who truly understands your European car and will treat it with the respect it deserves, a specialist is the clear choice. It's an investment in the longevity and continued joy of driving your vehicle.

Car insurance premiums have surged in the past 2 years but switching providers could save you hundreds of dollars, says Consumer NZ. 

Vanessa Pratley, investigative writer at Consumer NZ, says its annual car insurance survey found premiums have increased by as much as 46% since 2023.  

Pratley points to inflation and extreme weather events as factors driving up the cost of insurance across the board, but another contributing factor is your age and life stage. 

"Every insurer will base its premiums on risk. How much you pay will depend on things like whether you live in a flood-prone area, the car you drive, and even your age and gender.  

“And because not all insurers are equal – which is to say they use their own risk assessments – you might be more or less of a risk to one provider or another.

"You can switch insurance providers any time (though there might be cancellation fees), and that could potentially reward you with hundreds of dollars in annual savings.” 

Toot if your premium’s up! 

Consumer's survey found young males will pay more in car insurance premiums than older people or young females. And older females could pay more than older males – depending on the insurer.  

“When we compared the costs for four different age brackets across nine insurance providers, we found annual savings ranged quite significantly - between $481 and $1,296. 

"Since 2023, the lowest median increase was just 0.6% for a family of four living in Auckland, and the highest median increase was 46% for young males living in Christchurch. 

“If the cost to insure your car is stressing you out right now, don’t cancel your cover or drop down to third-party – shop around and see what savings you could make first.” 

Switch to a lane you can afford 

Other than switching providers, Pratley explains some policies may look similar but cover very different things. 

“‘Standard’ cover with one insurer will be an optional extra with another insurer. 

“You might find your insurance policy includes towing expenses or key replacements as part of its standard offering. But if you very rarely park in the city and never lose your keys, you might be paying more than you need.

“Take the time to compare what's on offer and consider whether switching plans or providers would get you back to a policy you can afford." 

Get a steer on satisfaction 

As well as crunching the numbers on the cost of car insurance premiums, Consumer surveys car insurance customers about how satisfied they are with their current provider.  

“No one takes out insurance cover for fun. It’s an important financial safety net, for example, if you accidentally swing your car into a parked Tesla. If the right protection isn’t in place for you, you could find yourself in a real pickle. 

“The experience you get from your insurance provider, especially how they treat you, should be an important consideration, too. We’re pleased to announce that FMG and MAS received Consumer’s People’s Choice award for car insurance this year."

To help New Zealanders independently compare insurance providers’ cover, our team has crunched the details on comprehensive car insurance policies. 

Auckland, New Zealand - Renewcar, a leading automotive restoration company, is proud to announce the launch of its cutting-edge headlight restoration system in Auckland. This innovative solution is set to revolutionize how car owners maintain and enhance the appearance of their vehicle's headlights.

Renewcar's headlight restoration system is designed to address common issues such as yellowing, oxidation, and hazing that can significantly reduce the effectiveness of headlights. Using advanced techniques and high-quality materials, Renewcar's experts can restore headlights to their original clarity and brilliance, improving both safety and aesthetics for drivers.

"We are thrilled to bring our advanced headlight restoration system to Auckland," said John Smith, CEO of Renewcar. "Headlights are a crucial safety feature of any vehicle, and our system ensures that drivers can rely on their headlights for optimal visibility in all conditions."

In addition to improving visibility and safety, Renewcar's headlight restoration system also offers environmental benefits by extending the life of existing headlights. By restoring rather than replacing headlights, Renewcar helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability in the automotive industry.

Renewcar's headlight restoration service is now available to car owners in Auckland. With a commitment to quality, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, Renewcar is poised to set a new standard for headlight restoration in the region.

For more information about Renewcar and its headlight restoration system, please visit renewcar.co.nz.

.

About Renewcar

Renewcar is a leading automotive restoration company specializing in various services, including headlight restoration, paint correction, and ceramic coatings. With a team of experienced professionals and a commitment to excellence, Renewcar is dedicated to providing customers with top-quality results and exceptional service.

Tickford Performance, one of Australia's most iconic developers of after-market performance parts for Ford vehicles are now expanding their operations to include New Zealand. 

Tickford Performance draws on its racing & performance heritage to offer performance enhancement products for a number of key Ford models. These include the Mustang, Ranger and Everest. Keeping to the core of the brand's philosophy, Tickford Performance also develop and build high-performance special edition vehicles, which in more recent times have included the Allan Moffat inspired Bathurst '77 Special and Coca-Cola Trans-Am Mustangs, the TSV-535R and the HTZ-66 built exclusively for the Australian Hertz rental fleet.

Tickford Performance’s expertise is not only limited to producing high-performance aftermarket kits and performance modifications for various Ford models, its associated business, Tickford Racing, is one of the largest racing teams in the hugely popular Supercars Racing Championship.

The iconic Tickford brand which is intricately linked with a number of Fords models, will now be available in New Zealand through a division of Matamata Panelworks, operating as an exclusive Tickford Performance distributor and enhancement centre.

Managing Director of Matamata Panelworks, Malcolm Sankey, says that they will be offering an extensive range of licensed Tickford conversions, performance upgrades and accessories for most Ford Ranger, Mustang and Everest models.

Waikato-based We.EV has partnered with leading independent fuel retailer and supplier Waitomo Group.

Powered by WEL Networks, We.EV is helping New Zealanders get future-ready with their electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Head of We.EV Craig Marshall says the partnership is a significant step forward as both businesses continue to cement their commitment to the region they call home, by providing users with a premium, fast-charging experience.

"This will enable the future expansion of We.EV’s charging network at a local and ultimately national level. With access to more choice in EVs in New Zealand, the number of consumers choosing to switch to electric vehicles is accelerating. We’re expecting to see more than 50,000 EVs in the Waikato by 2030, which means that the infrastructure also needs to keep pace."

Over the next three years, We.EV will be installing 160kW public fast chargers across multiple sites within the Waikato, as well as outside of the region.

Waitomo Group Rangatira and owner Jimmy Ormsby is proud to be partnering with, and supporting, a locally owned and operated business as part of Waitomo’s expansion into future fueling solutions.

"With the increased uptake of EVs on a local and national scale, it’s critical that we have the correct infrastructure in place to cater to our customers expectations. Partnering with We.EV was a no-brainer. At our Mystery Creek site, they designed and installed the chargers; as well as providing operations, maintenance and reporting. They have made this transition easy. We’re looking forward to future site installations."

Two 160kW DC chargers are currently being installed at Waitomo’s recently opened Ruakura Superhub site, with additional sites planned throughout the Waikato and beyond.
 

Imports of fully electric vehicles more than doubled in value during the 12 months to March 2023, amid a series high for vehicle imports, according to data released by Stats NZ.

The total value of passenger motor vehicles imported in the 12 months to March 2023 was $6.8 billion – an increase of 13 percent on the previous year. This represents the largest value of vehicles purchased within any 12 months to March.

Rises in imports were seen across vehicles of all reduced-emission propulsion methods, with electric vehicle imports having the highest increase of 127 percent, to $1.23 billion. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and the less common plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) increased 79 percent (to $1.12 billion) and 123 percent (to $176 million), respectively.

The combination of all passenger internal combustion vehicles increased 1.7 percent, to $5.6 billion.

Tritium DCFC Limited, a global developer and manufacturer of direct current (DC) fast chargers for electric vehicles (EVs), today announced a strategic partnership with Jump Charging, a green energy charging and fuel infrastructure business, to expand access to fast charging infrastructure in New Zealand.

The rate of EV adoption continues to grow in New Zealand and charging infrastructure will need to grow to meet the increasing demand. Nearly 20% of the 100,000 light vehicles sold in 2022 in New Zealand were battery electric, and the country is on its way to achieving its 2050 net-zero emissions reduction goals. However, as of December 2022, there were only approximately 350 public charging stations in the country, or just one charging station for every 200 EVs registered in New Zealand. To address this gap, the New Zealand government has plans to expand on its initial vision for nationwide coverage of DC fast chargers every 75 kilometres along state highways. As part of this investment, the government is prioritising high-powered public charging hubs to match the rapidly growing number and increased requirements of electric vehicles and their drivers.

Jump Charging, a new Tritium distributor and service partner for New Zealand, is committed to further expanding access to publicly available charging in the country to accelerate decarbonisation of the transport sector. The company is developing their network with Tritium fast chargers at its core, and is planning to implement an initial 20 fast charging hubs at key locations followed by the rapid deployment of further sites nationwide.

Tritium CEO Jane Hunter emphasised that EV charging installation, maintenance, and education are crucial steps to helping New Zealand reach its 2050 net-zero emissions reduction goals, which were announced last year in the country’s first Emissions Reduction Plan.

“Innovation is critical to accelerating the transition to a low-carbon future. The skid-mounted solution for rapid installation of fast charging stations developed by Jump Charging is a prime example of the innovative technology solutions needed to creatively address the demand for EV charging infrastructure in New Zealand,” said Tritium CEO Jane Hunter. “By providing cutting-edge charging technology as well as maintenance, training, and support for our partners, we are committed to building a comprehensive and reliable EV charging ecosystem that will help New Zealand reach its net-zero emissions reduction goals."

Focused on the development of a reliable, purpose-built charging network of strategically located infrastructure, Jump Charging’s mantra of “fast, accessible, and visible” illustrates their commitment to ensuring all electric vehicle drivers have adequate access to charging. The company offers its customers flexible purchase, lease, and partnership models, and they manage and maintain all sites on the Jump Charging network to ensure a reliable and consistent level of service for all electric vehicles. The first of these sites is an EV charging hub at the new Agritech Business Park in Rakaia, Canterbury. The first stage of this project will include two of Tritium’s modular 150kW fast chargers, each capable of simultaneous vehicle charging to service both passenger and fleet vehicles on site.

In addition to expanding their network, Jump Charging is creating innovative solutions to solve charging demand issues. The company has created a portable, skid-mounted solution for charging station installation, that is designed to be used with Tritium’s 75kW award-winning modular fast charger, enabling swift deployment in service locations experiencing increases in EV charging demand due to seasonality, specialist events, construction projects, or emergency situations. Adding to its flexibility, the design enables connection to either a standard 400V system or alternatively a high voltage 11kV supply through the inclusion of an onboard transformer.

Jump Charging director Alex Watson commented, “At Jump Charging, our goal is to move New Zealand away from fossil fuels, so choosing a proven EV fast charging partner we could rely on was crucial. We are proud to partner with Tritium, as we know that their DC fast chargers are world-leading in both quality and reliability. In addition, their training program has provided our team with exceptional knowledge to confidently manage and service our customers.”

Jump Charging is an authorised Tritium service agent, allowing the Jump Charging team to provide specialist EV support services to its customers and across its own national network.

The Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF), administered by the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA), provided co-funding for both the Agritech Business Park EV charging hub and for the development of the portable, skid-mounted fast charging solution. The EECA was established under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2000 to encourage and support energy efficiency, as well as provide co-funding for technology development like Jump Charging’s skid-mounted charging station.