CarExpert New Zealand is launching later this month to help Kiwi car buyers navigate an increasingly complex and competitive market.
Ahead of launch, Chery, Ford, GWM, MG and Mini have signed on as exclusive launch partners, backing CarExpert New Zealand and its independent new-car content.
Aotearoa’s new-car market has expanded rapidly, offering more brands, models and powertrain options than ever before – and with that choice comes a growing need for guidance.
Filling the gap
CarExpert New Zealand aims to provide locally relevant reviews, comparisons and tools designed around how people actually research new cars today.
CarExpert’s CEO Damon Rielly says: “The New Zealand new-car market is evolving quickly. Buyers are facing more choice, more new brands and more decisions than ever before, and that creates a real need for trusted, specialist guidance.
“These five foundation partners recognise that change. By supporting CarExpert New Zealand from launch.”
The launch partners’ involvement reflects a shared focus on supporting the wider market, including dealerships, by reaching buyers early in the research and consideration phase.
Expand across local platforms
CarExpert enters New Zealand with proven experience from Australia, where it has grown to become Australia’s leading new-car website, trusted by millions of car buyers each month.
The learnings from that market, including how buyers research, compare and shortlist vehicles, have informed the New Zealand product and content approach.
CarExpert New Zealand is launching as a joint venture with Trade Me, with leading new-car content published on CarExpert New Zealand, Trade Me Motors and Stuff, extending reach across trusted local platforms.
“We know that the journey to buying a new car starts online, long before a customer gets to the showroom floor,” says Ford’s marketing director Mathew Slade.
“The launch of CarExpert in New Zealand is a fantastic development for the industry, empowering customers to make informed choices. When Kiwis feel confident in their research, it drives better outcomes for buyers and ensures the ongoing success of our dedicated Ford Dealers nationwide.”
A growing team
The foundation partner programme runs until June 30, 2026, with advertising opening to additional brands from July 1, 2026.
CarExpert New Zealand will be supported by a local team led by Editor Matthew Hansen and motoring journalist Dave Kavermann, with a country manager to be announced.
The team is set to grow across editorial, marketing, commercial and development roles as the business expands.
The post Five leading car brands partner with CarExpert NZ ahead of February launch appeared first on stoppress.co.nz.