Wanganui's motor trade kicked up its heels and celebrated its achievements at the Motor Trade Association Wanganui branch regional awards on Saturday night.
More than 250 people gathered for the 6th annual awards, which were held at the War Memorial Hall.
Guest speaker was V8 racing driver Greg Murphy. There was no
supreme winner on the night, but 12 awards were given out for everything from best apprentice to best employer.
Branch president Mike Johnston said the purpose of the awards were to recognise the excellence of Wanganui's motor trade.
"And I'm not talking about just businesses, I mean the people involved in the trade - the mechanics, the panel beaters, the apprentices."
Mr Johnston said the second purpose of the awards was to give those involved in the industry a chance to mix and mingle.
"We were so pleased with the turn-out - I'd say about 80 or 90 per cent of the industry was at the awards."
Mr Johnston said the awards were such a success that they're now held in regions throughout New Zealand.
"They're gaining momentum every year."
WINNERS:
Top Technical Business Leader: Aaron Hogg, Larsen Collision Repairs, Wanganui.
Top Administrative Business Leader: Janine Tipper, BNT Wanganui.
Top Petrol Technician: Robert Jones, Watkins Motors, Wanganui.
Top Diesel Technician: James Daniels, Emmetts Service Centre, Wanganui.
Top Parts' Interpreter/Manager: James Glass, Wanganui Auto Wreckers & Wanganui Towing.
Top Panel Repairer/Refinisher: Gary Reid, Larsen Collision Repairs, Wanganui.
Top Technical Automotive Specialist - Other: Terry Price, Restorations Unlimited, Wanganui.
Top Automotive Specialist - Other: Rowan Massey, Wanganui Auto Wreckers & Wanganui Towing.
Top Apprentice: Lee Spooner, Campbell's Auto Repairs, Wanganui.
Top Salesperson - Used Vehicles: Antony Rountree, Harvey Round Motors, Wanganui.
Top Employer: Aaron and Melissa Hogg, Larsen Collision Repairs, Wanganui.
Branch Outstanding Service Award: Peter Guthrie, Guthrie Holden and Kia, Wanganui.
