Summary:
The automotive industry in New Zealand is characterized by a high car ownership ratio, with distributors of new cars mainly being former owners of assembly businesses. Despite the rise of independent businesses specializing in used imports from Japan since the 1980s, traditional dealership chains have been maintained. Toyota has entered into competition with these businesses by refurbishing old Toyotas from Japan and selling them through their own dealers as a special line. Consequently, the average age of the nation’s car fleet is older compared to other developed countries.

Key Points:
1. High Car Ownership Ratio: New Zealand has historically maintained one of the world’s highest car ownership ratios, indicating a strong presence and reliance on automobiles within the society.

2. Distribution Structure: Distributors of new cars in the country are typically former owners of assembly businesses, contributing to a unique business model within the automotive industry.

3. Rise of Independent Businesses: Since the 1980s, there has been a growth in independent businesses specializing in used imports from Japan, challenging traditional dealership chains.

4. Toyota’s Strategy: Toyota has ventured into direct competition with used-import businesses by refurbishing old Toyotas from Japan and selling them through their own dealers as a distinct product line.

5. Older Car Fleet: As a result of the prevalence of used imports and Toyota’s refurbishment strategy, New Zealand’s car fleet tends to be older compared to most developed countries, highlighting a distinctive characteristic of the nation’s automotive landscape.

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