The Dayman family has played an important role in the Nelson automotive industry since 1965 when Peter and Pixie Dayman established a car service business in Bridge Street. Son Garry took over the reins in 1990. Nelson Magazine talks to his son Scott, a third-generation member of the family who is the company’s sales manager at their premises on the corner of Halifax and Collingwood Streets.
What drew you into the family business?
It’s just something that I’ve always known. I can remember going to work as a kid in the school holidays, cleaning cars and getting a small set of overalls so I could look like my grandfather. I think when you grow up with something it just always feels natural. It is rare to see companies staying in families like this and I wanted to be part of the legacy my grandparents created.
What do you enjoy about your job?
No two days are the same and we get to meet many kinds of people from vastly different backgrounds with some great yarns to tell. With four excellent brands we really do have a car for everyone, and it is very satisfying helping people find exactly the right vehicle to meet their needs.
What challenges are faced by your company and the automotive industry in New Zealand at present?
The industry is moving really quickly with innovation advancing at a rapid pace. That requires a lot of extra time to “school up” on all the new features. The government’s NZ Clean Car rebate scheme has resulted in a rush for electric vehicles and Nelson is ahead of the rest of the nation in demand for these.
What reasons are buyers giving for switching to EVs?
With petrol prices high, running costs are a big motivation. There is also the sense of drivers wanting to do their bit for the environment.
What special features are you seeing coming through with the latest EVs?
These cars are just chocka full of technology and there has also been considerable development with batteries. We can now offer a full EV that can do over 500kms,
which is exciting.
What is the market like for second-hand EVs?
Having MG as a brand with its fantastic pricing is encouraging more clients to buy new. The peace of mind that comes with a seven-year warranty is very significant and imported second-hand EVs can come with unexpected issues.
What car do you drive?
I seem to change my car a bit. Currently I’m driving the new Subaru Outback. It’s more of a size thing for me. With a big dog and golf clubs, the Outback is great for that.
