Shipping in: time to buy

10 August, 2017

 

 

We recently spoke to the team at Famous Pacific Shipping (FPS) about the process of importing a vehicle into New Zealand, and if you’re thinking of doing so, the best thing you can do is keep an eye on the NZD–USD exchange rate. Exchange rate fluctuations can make a significant difference in the final price you end up paying for an imported vehicle.

At the time of writing, the New Zealand dollar has dropped from a high of US$0.75 to the dollar, but still strong at $0.73 — up from May’s US$0.68 rate. What this translates to in everyday English is that, if you’re thinking of importing a car from the US, this is not a bad time for it — although, going forward it will be worth keeping an eye on rate changes. We have embedded an exchange graph updated daily, which will give an idea of how it’s looking. 
 

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When we talked to the team at Famous Pacific Shipping (FPS) about this, they mentioned that importing doesn’t have to be as daunting as it is often made out to be. If you have found the vehicle you’re after, they are able to assist you right through the importing procedure. 

Based in the USA, Don McIlwain — also known as ‘Hemi’ Don McIlwain, for his extensive knowledge of all things Mopar — is a key member of team, with a strong background in the automotive industry. Don has attended the last few Beach Hops with the FPS team to meet happy clients and liaise with potential new clients looking for something special. He works closely with clients to find the right car in the best condition for the price specified, with his range of services available at classicautolocators.com. Having him on the team ensures peace of mind knowing the same team is handling everything from start to finish. 

Don actually helped to source the beautiful ’66 Dodge Charger owned by Rodney and Zeta Holland — a genuine 426 Hemi-powered four-speed car — that New Zealand Classic Car magazine have been fortunate enough to feature in an upcoming issue. Watch this space for the feature, and to find more information on importing a dream car of your own, visit famous.co.nz.

 

Lunch with … Rodger Anderson

At first, I wondered if I’d driven up the wrong driveway. The car in the garage was an early Mustang resplendent in royal blue with two broad gold stripes, which was not what I was expecting. I knew that Rodger Anderson, who made his name in Minis and a BMW 2002, was a Porsche man these days — the other end of the spectrum from American muscle. I had no idea of his affection for Detroit iron. It didn’t take long to discover just how passionate this former Saloon Car Champion is about cars, as long as they’re interesting.

Back from the brink – 1968 MGB GT

Auckland classic car enthusiast Kerry Bowman soon realised he had a massive job on his hands in restoring his classic 1968 MGB GT. When Kerry and his MGB first appeared in New Zealand Classic Car in March 2021, in “Behind The Garage Door”, the stripped-out shell had revealed some nasty surprises. Once the true extent of the hidden damage was discovered, the work would normally have been handed over to a professional fabricator. However, with the assistance of experts such as MG specialist restorer, Paul Walbran, Kerry has completed an impressive restoration and saved this car from the scrapheap.