History

Founded by two ex RNZAF friends, Ian Hamilton and Alan Shepherd after they realized the need for a brake specialist in Christchurch. They managed to import the necessary specialized equipment from the USA, find a suitable premises in Mollet Street and Safe R Brakes was underway.

The business grew and staff numbers increased. Alan Shepherd travelled north to Auckland and left Ian Hamilton and the staff to continue the business.

Colin Perham was brought in as a partner in 1956 as business further increased. As it continued to grow, it became apparent that Safe R Brakes had outgrowing it’s premises and in 1968 it moved to purpose built premises on the corner of Fitzgerald Ave and Tuam St where it remains today.

In 1976 ill health forced Ian Hamilton to leave Colin running Safe R Brakes. Colin became the driving force behind the New Zealand Brake and Clutch Specialists Association, which he helped start and was its founding President from its commencement until he died in 1983.

After Colin’s death Barry Briggs became acting manager and eventually purchased Safe R Brakes in 1987. Barry successfully ran the business until he retired in 2016 when John and Annette Begg purchased it.

Safe R Tyres was formed to provide the same focus to tyres as Safe R Brakes has provided for brakes.

Safe R Brakes today boasts 12 staff with over 200 years of specialist expertise service to the firm.

We acquired Powerstop Engineering, a Tauranga based company specialising in ABS hardware & diagnostics. This will allow us to offer faster diagnostics & repairs on modern cars with ECU\’s.

Take over of UnderCar Service Center to expand our Brake & Clutch services; specifically for Flywheels and better service the UnderCar customer base.