The early years

Brent is a third-generation Kiwi who started out life attending Ngaio Primary School, in Wellington's western suburbs, before moving on to Cardinal McKeefry Intermediate in Wilton.

He went to Onslow College in Johnsonville until he left at the age of sixteen. At school, he achieved a School Certificate in Maths, Science, English, Engineering Shop Work and Technical drawing.

Brent describes himself as a fairly average student, who became a bit of a rascal and a nuisance as a early teen and scraped through college life.

“A very unexceptional student, often in detention and in front of the principal, a bit of a disappointment to my family at that time, I must say” – Brent tells us.

Outside of school, he played Football (Soccer) for Onslow Club in the ‘Rama’s’ and the ‘Awaruas’, usually playing as a centre half. Brent belonged to the Tae Kwon Do club that trained in the Nairnville Park Gymnasium (which he joined after watching the Karate Kid movies). He admits to drifting away from these sports in the rascal years - unfortunately.

The Motor Vehicle Industry

Brent did a pre-apprenticeship course in Automotive Engineering at Wellington Polytech and was lucky enough to gain an Apprenticeship at Rutherford & Bond Toyota in Wellington, gaining his Automotive Engineering Trade Certificate while working for them.

He spent a total of eight years at Rutherford and Bond Toyota, working my way up from apprentice to workshop foreman.

“I had some brilliant role models in that place that made a big difference to my development” Brent explains.

Family Life

Brent met his wife-to-be Rachel while working at Toyota. They left the company together in 1999 to travel and did their OE based in the UK.

He worked in several different Garages in London and Dublin in between travelling, and they returned to NZ after 4 ½ years.

“I Loved Travelling and seeing some of the world, certainly believe NZ is the best country in the world to live and raise a family”. Describes Brent

Rachel and Brent married in 2004 and have two fantastic Kids (Luciele and James). Brent describes these events as his most significant achievements.

The Business Opportunity

Upon returning to NZ in 2004, Brent obtained a job at Peter Blakeley Autos, a Mitsubishi service agent in Paraparaumu.

In 2006 Brent and Rachel were offered the opportunity to purchase the business which we did. They renamed it to Delaney Mitsubishi and have grown the business over the last 19 years from a 2 person parts & service garage to a full parts, service and selling car dealership employing 13 people (including ourselves).

Brent proudly explains, “Rachel has been an enormous part of the business, and I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in Life and Business. I have enjoyed the different challenges and being able make and act on decisions, hopefully being a positive part of our local Community. I particularly enjoy seeing younger people coming through, developing skills, making their start in our Industry.”

Outside of Work

Brent explains that these days, spare time is enjoyed by going on bushwalks with Rachel and their beloved dog, Motorcycling, playing Guitar and surfing (very badly).

A self-diagnosed introvert, he enjoys spending time with friends and family.

What does the future hold for the Delaney Family?

When asked that question, Brent tells me, “Hopefully we spend more time exploring New Zealand in our 1980s Caravan (Joelene)”.

“I feel very fortunate to have had all of the opportunities I have had in life regarding work, travelling, family, friends and business. We are very grateful and lucky for all that we have.” - Brent

In Summary

Having recently purchased my latest vehicle (Black Diamond ASX) from Brent, I can personally say he made the experience hassle-free. The service to date has been exceptional, and Delaney Mitsubishi is thoroughly recommended for those looking to buy their next set of wheels.

Thanks for all your help with my fantastic new car, Brent. And well done with the business! Special thanks for sharing a little about your personal life with our readers.

Tony Cutting
for Kapiti Now & Wellington Today