Porsche New Zealand Celebrates Certification of New Porsche Classic Technicians

2 August, 2024

Three talented technicians have successfully completed the prestigious Porsche Classic Technician training program and are now officially Certified Porsche Classic Technicians

New Zealand technicians, Ricky Urry, Savannah Mountney-Needham, and Kai Newstead receive their Porsche Classic Certification

Porsche New Zealand proudly announces that three of their talented technicians have successfully completed the prestigious Porsche Classic Technician training program and are now officially Certified Porsche Classic Technicians.
Ricky Urry and Kai Newstead of Giltrap Porsche, along with Savannah Mountney-Needham from Continental Cars Porsche, have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication throughout the rigorous training process. This accomplishment is a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving and servicing classic Porsche vehicles to the highest standards.
“We are incredibly proud of Ricky, Kai, and Savannah for their hard work and dedication,” said Ehrin Wardlow, Service & Network Development Manager, Porsche New Zealand. “This achievement highlights our ongoing dedication to maintaining the highest standards in Porsche service and repair. Our certified technicians are now well-equipped to handle the complexities of classic Porsche models, fulfilling their dreams of mastering these iconic vehicles.”
The new certifications reinforce both Giltrap Porsche and Continental Cars Porsche’s commitment to delivering superior service for classic Porsche enthusiasts and collectors.

Savannah Mountney-Needham - Continental Cars Porsche technician
Kai Newstead - Giltrap Porsche technician

About the Porsche Classic Technician Program
The Porsche Classic Technician training program spans seven intensive courses over three years, conducted at the After Sales Qualification Centre in Stuttgart, Zuffenhausen. The comprehensive program covers both theoretical and practical aspects of classic Porsche maintenance and restoration, including air-cooled engines, transmissions, diagnostics, fuel and ignition systems, and chassis systems / alignments. After completing the training, technicians must pass a challenging theoretical exam and demonstrate their abilities through practical exams on each topic.

Ricky Urry - Giltrap Porsche technician
Kai Newstead - Giltrap Porsche technician

Hiroshima Express

One of the rarest Mazdas,and amongst one of the rarest production cars in the World, a 1967 Series 1, Cosmo made its public debut at the 2025 Cromwell Classic and Hot Rod Car Show on Saturday January 18 this year.
After a challenging 5-year restoration, its proud Cromwell owner, Mike Elford celebrated its appearance along with Dunedin specialist, Mazda rotary engine builder, Cory Wilson who trallered the car through to the show.
“There are a number of details still to attend to and fine-tune the engine and then it will at last be finished. I’m very pleased with the result,” Cory said.
Mike is extremely pleased with the end now in sight of what has been a very challenging project. The tiny jewel of Japanese motoring engenuity attracted many on-lookers at the show as it sat glistening in the sun on an appropriately brilliant Central Otago summer’s day.

Merry Christmas from NZ Classic Car magazine

The Classic Car magazine team is taking a few weeks’ holiday from the work computer and heading to the beach for some kickback time.
Merry Christmas, and have a wonderful summer holiday to all our readers, followers, and fans. Enjoy this special extra time with the family. We will be posting archive articles again in mid to late January.
Have fun, be good and be careful out there.