Wendy says despite winning the title twice before, the couple were not expecting the award for a third time.
"We love being nominated for the Top Shop competition every year because we find that there is a lot of value in the feedback from the judges. For us winning is just an added bonus and gives us even more confidence that we doing the best for our customers."
Kevan, who says he nearly fell off the stage with excitement, agrees. "We simply treat our customers the way we would like to be treated and aim to provide the best value of service."
Kevan says the award is a result of a team effort. "It's not just for me and Wendy, it recognises the hard work of our team, Jason Pepper and Chris Waite, too."
Judges commented that Central Taranaki Automotive provided an "excellent level of service and went the extra mile to advise on issues they were able to help with".
Wendy says the business would not be so successful without the ongoing support of their clients.
"We are very lucky to have such a loyal client base. We'd like to thank everyone who nominated and voted for us during the competition."
Wendy recommends Stratford businesses speak to their customers about getting behind them and nominating them next year.
Fellow finalist Hillary Kieft, owner operator of The Well Cafe, agrees that competition offers valuable feedback to businesses.
"Judges said to us that our customers had recognised us as being a strongly community minded business."
The Well Cafe was presented with a Commended award in the Accessibility section of the competition as well as being named as a finalist for the Central Taranaki Regional Award.
"For me being recognised in the Accessibility section is the ultimate award. It is important to me that my business is open to everyone."
