Automotive industry legend farewelled

A New Zealand automotive industry legend has died. Tony Howard was the founder of the Howard Group and the driving force behind the business that became Manukau Toyota Group, which included the Pukekohe Toyota dealership. He passed away on August 31.

He was a respected businessman and entrepreneur whose determination, commercial instinct, independent spirit and belief in people helped build one of New Zealand’s largest and most successful Toyota dealership groups.

After studying accountancy and beginning his working life in retail, Howard entered the motor industry when he purchased Rio Motors in Greenlane from Sir Colin Giltrap.

Over 35 years ago, he acquired the Toyota franchise and its premises in Gladding Place, Manukau, from the Giltrap Group.

Under Howard’s leadership and unwavering determination to succeed, the Howard Group grew into a significant automotive and commercial property business. Manukau Toyota Group became New Zealand’s largest Toyota dealership group by sales volume, serving thousands of customers each year throughout east and south Auckland.

“Tony had a strong ability to recognise opportunity,” Manukau Toyota Group says. “His decision to secure land in Botany, well before the area’s full growth potential was realised, enabled the development of an award-winning flagship Toyota dealership, of which Tony was immensely proud.

“Central to his philosophy was a belief in employing good people, trusting them to do their jobs, and looking after them well. This approach created a strong sense of loyalty throughout the business, with many employees building careers of 10, 20, 30 years or more within the group.

“Tony also ensured Howard Group remained a family business with the appointment of his daughter, Alison Ali’ Guise, as managing director upon his retirement. Ali’s appointment provided a continuity of the business her father established, carrying his values into its next generation.

“Even though he was retired, Tony took great satisfaction in seeing the group continue to grow under the leadership of his family and the people he’d supported throughout their careers, including the building and opening of the group’s brand-new Pukekohe Toyota dealership in 2025.”

Manukau Toyota Group says Howard will be remembered as an entrepreneur, mentor and respected figure within New Zealand’s automotive industry.

“He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives and careers he influenced.”