Making Driving Safer – Steve Smalley

“I’m motivated by knowing, that when I leave work at the end of the day, the vehicles I have inspected are road-worthy, and that our customers are informed of any possible issues, that they leave satisfied, and are keen to return to VINZ for their future inspections”.

Steve Smalley is one of our longest serving employees at VINZ, he is based at our Christchurch Airport Vehicle Testing Station.

Having worked for VINZ for over 22 years, Steve says “I work with a great team of people who work well together, and I have found VINZ to be a very supportive company who do the best for their staff”.

Steve completed his apprenticeship at a GMH dealership and gained an Advanced Trade Certificate before joining VINZ in 1999.  “My role at VINZ progressed from carrying out entry level inspections as well WoF, CoF A and CoF B” says Steve.

Steve says, “My decision to become a Vehicle Inspector was firstly, as an extension of my career, and secondly, a movement away from full hands-on vehicle maintenance” – this means Steve can enjoy extra time with his Cortina pictured in this photo. “My Baby – it’s a 1969 Ford Cortina 1600E of which I am the fourth owner. It is an eye-catching classic car, with its 1600cc GT engine built on a lowered and stiffer Lotus Cortina suspension, and factory chrome Rostyle wide wheels. It’s a fun car to drive but would benefit from power steering (especially when parking)!” say Steve.

Steve says, “I’m motivated by knowing, that when I leave work at the end of the day, the vehicles I have inspected are road-worthy, and that our customers are informed of any possible issues, that they leave satisfied, and are keen to return to VINZ for their future inspections”.

“A well-maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle” say Steve. “I believe to help make vehicles safer, a sliding scale for the 12-month warrants could be introduced. Inspections would take place more frequently as vehicles age, which means the likelihood of faults, can be detected sooner” says Steve.

ENDS