NZ trucking industry loses one of its giants

Keith Andrews began selling trucks from his Whangarei garage back in the ‘80s and immediately proved to be an astute and formidable businessman. He quickly established a full FUSO sales and service business in Whangarei and from there expanded into Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. With the addition of Mercedes-Benz trucks and commercial vehicles, Keith went on to become NZ’s largest new truck retailer.

His businesses also hold distribution rights for FUSO trucks and buses and represent Mercedes-Benz buses in New Zealand.

Keith, who passed away on 13 November, 2019, was the beloved husband of Vicki and loved father of Kurtis, Camden and Holly. He was a leader and a mentor and was universally acclaimed as someone who would never settle for second best. 

Staff knew that Keith would always beat them to work in the morning. First to arrive and last to leave, Keith lead from the front; he had an amazing work ethic and a genuine passion for his people and his customers.

Keith’s absence from the business over the past 12 months has meant the KAT and Fuso New Zealand teams have operated under the leadership of Kurtis Andrews, ensuring that Keith’s high standards remain at the forefront of the business and that all staff are committed to continuing Keith’s proud legacy. 

About KAT

Keith Andrews Trucks (KAT) started life in Whangarei in 1991 as a dedicated FUSO dealership. Since then, the business has grown to include three more sites in Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga and employs more than 130 staff.

The company’s ethos centres on the principle that great people make great businesses, and KAT is proud to have a team of passionate individuals, who share a common approach to delivering excellent customer service.

KAT is the largest new commercial vehicle dealer in New Zealand. Best known for selling and servicing FUSO trucks and buses across its network, KAT is also an experienced Mercedes-Benz specialist, covering sales, service and parts for the Northland region from its base in Whangarei, and for Waikato from its Hamilton branch, with parts and service support in Manukau.

In November 2019, KAT was named a full Freightliner sales, parts and service dealer for the North Island, building on its history as the brand’s parts and service specialist in Whangarei for the past 15 years.

Pictured above: trucks bowed as a mark of respect at all KAT dealerships