Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has immediately suspended the authority of Mr Q’s Auto in Henderson, Tāmaki Makaurau, and its vehicle inspector from issuing warrant of fitness (WoFs).
The action has been taken following the discovery of improper processes and numerous significant inspection errors during a recent Waka Kotahi operation at the inspection site. All current 2,674 WoFs issued by Mr Q’s will be made invalid (revoked) due to the issues uncovered by Waka Kotahi.
Senior Manager Safer Vehicles Nicole Botherway says Waka Kotahi is currently in the process of contacting vehicle owners directly to let them know that their vehicles may have been incorrectly passed, and to advise them to obtain another WoF inspection without delay.
“We’re contacting as many owners as possible as quickly as possible, and we want to alert people now before they leave for holidays, or before other local WoF inspection sites close for the holiday period. We also recognise that many people will still need their vehicles to get to and from work,” Ms Botherway says.
We know that this is a very busy time of year for many people, and we understand the inconvenience this may cause. We don’t make these decisions lightly, but this action is necessary to provide assurance that these vehicles are up to WoF standard.”
Waka Kotahi is not legally liable for the costs relating to WoF revocations, and cannot advise vehicle owners on the potential legal liability of other persons who have provided services for the affected vehicle. Potentially affected vehicle owners unsure of their rights may wish to contact a Community Law Centre or the Citizens Advice Bureau for independent advice.
