As we come to the close of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has undoubtedly been one of the most testing years our industry has faced in recent memory.
Import volumes have fallen to their lowest levels in over a decade, regulatory emissions settings have remained tight, and the wider economic slowdown has placed real pressure on consumer spending. Running a dealership today requires more patience, creativity, and resilience than ever – and as a volume based business, we see it, and we feel it too.
However, our industry has remained resilient. It is dealers like you – turning up every day, doing what needs to be done, adapting, and finding a way forward even when conditions haven’t made it easy – who keep this sector moving. Your work plays a crucial role in keeping quality, affordable vehicles accessible to New Zealanders, and your efforts do not go unnoticed.
For those who I haven’t yet had the chance to meet, my name is Jim Shi, and this is my second year as CEO/Managing Director of Autohub. Many of you I’ve known for years – from your dealership, yards, offices, and the many conversations we’ve had over a coffee or two. Autohub has always been built on real relationships and straight conversations, and that will continue to sit at the heart of how we operate.
Looking Ahead…
Despite the challenges, there are several developments on the horizon that do offer some reason for measured optimism:
- Clean Car Standard changes
We expect the CCS penalty adjustments to broaden the range of commercially viable stock entering the country, supporting better differentiation and stronger dealer competitiveness – something this sector has sorely needed. - Domestic Interest Rate Environment
New Zealand’s OCR has eased from 4.25% in January to 2.25% today. Lower rates should place more liquidity into the hands of everyday New Zealanders and, in turn, support some increased market activity. - Japan Monetary Policy Outlook
While there is a possibility of another Bank of Japan rate hike this month – which could strengthen the yen, tighter monetary conditions may also cool domestic demand in Japan. If that happens, we could see increased auction volumes and more price-competitive stock coming through. Together with the upcoming CCS changes in New Zealand, this points to a more favourable balance of supply and pricing opportunities as we head into 2026.
We’ve all spoken about ‘green shoots’ before, but the signals we’re seeing now does feel more real and more aligned than they have for some time. If there was ever a moment my crystal ball might actually be working, it’s probably now – and I think we’re all ready for that upswing…
As we move into this next phase together, we want to ensure that our priorities and work reflect on what matters most to your business. To do that, we’re asking for direct feedback from the people who live and breathe the industry every day and help us better improve our service offerings.
Your Voice Matters
We’ve put together a short survey, and your feedback will help guide and shape our direction, our communication, and the support we provide next year. As a small thank you, anyone who completes it will also go into the draw to win one of five $100 Prezzie Cards.
Shaping 2026 Together – Fill out form
Heading into the holiday season, I want to thank you for your trust, your support, and the way you continue to back this industry through every challenge. Whether you’ve worked with us for years or have only recently joined the Autohub family, we genuinely appreciate the relationship and your business.
From all of us at Autohub, we wish you and your families a safe, relaxing, and meaningful Christmas and New Year.
We look forward to working alongside you in 2026.
Jim Shi
Managing Director/CEO