Neumanns Tyres Ashburton celebrated its 80th anniversary in September, and it stands as a testament to its enduring success in providing quality and reliable tyre service to generations of drivers throughout Mid Canterbury and beyond.
For brothers Alan and Ian, who have proudly led the business for more than 40 years after taking over from their father, the enormity of reaching 80 years in the tyre business is only just beginning to sink in.
Reflecting on the company’s journey, Ian says it’s not just about celebrating achievements but recognising the foundations of premium products and efficient service that have guided them through the decades. “It’s not something you consciously think of. It’s just snuck up on us. As you get older, you realise just how much history there is. We’ve had to keep evolving. We’re proud of how far the business has come, and it’s special to watch our family come together to ensure its success,” he adds. They wouldn’t have reached this point without their wives, Christine (Alan) and Judy (Ian). “They have supported us every step of the way.”
“But it’s not really about us,” Ian says. The Neumann family takes great pride in the loyalty and dedication of their team, placing strong emphasis on a ‘family’ environment. “Staff are the backbone of the business. You can’t underestimate the experience they bring. We’ve got people who have been with us for over 30 years, and there aren’t many businesses that can say that,” says Alan.
A cornerstone of the Ashburton District, Neumanns Tyres has grown from a small family business into a company with 17 stores. The purchase of the Tyre General franchise 33 years ago created a network spanning the South Island.
Started by Len Neumann after the Second World War, Neumanns Tyres was built on an unwavering commitment to customer service. With tyres scarce, Len repaired and re-used what he could, even cycling around town to collect tyres. Initially located in a shed on Havelock Street, Len later moved to the Welsh’s Building. In 1959, he purchased a section in Wills Street, where the flagship store remains, with the Methven store opening in 2019.
Their longstanding partnership with Ruralco has been a hallmark for more than 30 years, built on mutual trust. They have won the Members’ Choice Award for exceptional service and value for money over five consecutive years.
Alan and Ian have also immersed themselves in the local community, both having played rugby and cricket. “Whether it’s supporting kids playing sport on a Saturday or backing bigger local events, it’s important to give back to the community that supports us,” says Alan.
Although not ready to step away entirely, having devoted more than a combined 106 years to the business, Alan and Ian are looking forward to the third generation taking the reins, with Alan’s son, Vinnie, and Ian’s daughter, Emma Hintz, both integral to the company for over a decade. Keeping abreast with technology, staff training, and health and safety remain the biggest challenges ahead.
Today, Neumanns Tyre Group supplies premium products and expert support to South Island motorists, while specialising in commercial and agricultural tyres. To complement this, they offer wheel alignment services, operate an on-farm/fleet service with 24/7 support, and own a retreading factory in Christchurch to support commercial clients.