About Southend Motors

Proudly Serving Wellington Since 1974

Some things change. Some things are worth keeping.

Southend Motors began its journey in 1974, when Provin Nagar and Ishver "Jack" Jekishan opened their first automotive workshop on The Parade in Island Bay, Wellington.

That was long before our current owner and director, Harminder Singh, was even born!

Over the past five decades, a lot has changed. The Parade has evolved, Island Bay has grown, Wellington has transformed, and the cars we drive today are very different from those that first rolled through our workshop doors.

But one thing has never changed — our love for the community and the community's love for Southend Motors.

For generations, local families have trusted us to look after their vehicles. What began as a neighbourhood workshop has become part of Wellington's motoring history, built on relationships, honest advice and quality workmanship.

A New Chapter in 2020

In 2020, Southend Motors entered a new chapter under the ownership of Harminder Singh, who brought extensive experience in automotive dealership management in Australia.

While respecting the values and reputation established by Jack and Provin, Harminder had a vision to take Southend Motors forward — combining good old-fashioned customer service with modern automotive technology.

Since then, we have invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, specialist automotive tools, wheel alignment technology and equipment to diagnose and repair today's increasingly sophisticated mechanical and electrical systems.

A Remarkable Coincidence — 50 Years On

One of our favourite moments in Southend Motors' history happened on its 50th anniversary in 2024.

Jack, one of the original founders, turned up at the Island Bay workshop with morning tea for the team to celebrate 50 years since he and Provin first started the business.

Little did Jack know that Harminder had some exciting news of his own to share that very same day.

Southend Motors Te Aro had just been registered — marking the beginning of another chapter in the company's journey.

Fifty years to the day after Southend Motors began, its next chapter was taking shape.

Was it simply a coincidence, or was Mother Nature giving us a sign that we were heading in the right direction?

We like to think it was a little bit of both.

From One Workshop to Three

Today, Southend Motors proudly operates across three Wellington locations, each carrying forward the same values that started it all.

Island Bay — Where It All Began

Our original workshop on The Parade remains at the heart of Southend Motors. Managed by Sarabjeet Virdi and his team, Island Bay continues to deliver the reliable workmanship and personal service our customers have come to expect.

Reaching the milestone of 100 Google reviews is a proud reflection of the trust and support we have received from our customers.

Te Aro — The Next Chapter

Our Te Aro workshop is operated by Harminder himself, alongside a dedicated team of automotive technicians and our front-office team member.

With a strong focus on modern diagnostics, mechanical and electrical repairs, and customer care, Te Aro brings the Southend Motors experience closer to Wellington's central city community.

Adelaide Road, Newtown — Continuing to Grow

In 2026, we opened our third workshop on Adelaide Road in Newtown.

This latest addition is already growing strongly, allowing us to serve even more Wellington motorists, including owners of larger vehicles, commercial vehicles and campervans.

Our Commitment Remains the Same

We may have grown from one small workshop in Island Bay to three locations across Wellington, but we have never forgotten where we came from.

We still believe in treating customers fairly, explaining repairs clearly, investing in the right equipment and standing behind our workmanship.

Most importantly, we believe that a successful local business is built on the support of its community.

The Parade has changed. Island Bay has changed. Wellington has changed. But our love for the community — and the community's love for us — has never changed.

Southend Motors — Since 1974. Proud of our past. Driven by our future.