Pros 
Cons Hawke's Bay Towing and Storage: A Cut Above the Rest
Hawke’s Bay Towing and Storage consistently earns high praise, boasting a stellar rating of 4.60. Located at 39 Whakatu Road, Whakatu 4102, New Zealand (phone: +64 6 876 7531), this towing service operates Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. While they don't offer Saturday or Sunday service, the overwhelming sentiment from customers suggests their commitment to exceptional service makes the limited hours worthwhile. Finding the facility can be a little tricky – Google Maps isn't always accurate! Customers advise entering through Nimons buses at the roundabout, navigating through the security gate to reach Hawke's Bay Towing and Storage at the back. The company accepts credit cards and provides wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility.
The Shaun Factor: Where Exceptional Staff Shine
The recurring theme throughout numerous reviews is the outstanding service provided by their staff, particularly one individual: Shaun. It’s clear Shaun isn’t just a driver; he’s a problem-solver, a calming presence, and genuinely cares about the well-being of those he assists. Here’s a breakdown of what customers consistently highlight about their interactions with Shaun:
- Going Above and Beyond: Shaun routinely goes above and beyond the call of duty, from staying with stranded customers to ensure their safety and help them secure accommodation or flights, to checking for rental car availability and assisting with the transfer of belongings.
- Positive Attitude and Empathy: In times of stress (breakdowns, accidents), Shaun's cheerful demeanor and empathetic approach significantly alleviate anxiety and create a sense of calm. Customers describe him as "amazing," a "fantastic guy," and the "exactly who you wanna deal with."
- Engaging and Personable: He’s more than just a professional; he connects with customers, engages in conversation, shares stories, and demonstrates a genuine interest in their well-being. He even kept a five-year-old entertained during a tow!
- Proactive Care: Shaun is remembered for offering rides home, checking in with customers after drop-off, and ensuring they aren’t left with unresolved issues.
"A huge thanks to Shaun for helping us out and giving a positive mood when we were super stressed. We had to get back to Auckland and Shaun stayed with us till the end to make sure we are safe and got a place to stay or purchased airplane tickets! Great service and awesome people!" - A very grateful customer recalling Shaun’s assistance.
Addressing the Unexpected: Reliability in a Pinch
Hawke’s Bay Towing and Storage isn’t just praised for its staff; customers consistently highlight their reliability and prompt response, even on public holidays. Here's a summary of why customers choose and recommend them:
- 24/7 Availability: The company's commitment to 24/7 service is a major drawcard, offering peace of mind knowing help is available whenever needed.
- Rapid Response Times: Even on Labour Day, customers experienced a remarkably quick response time, highlighting the company's dedication to addressing urgent situations efficiently.
- AA Partnership: As an approved provider for the Automobile Association (AA), Hawke’s Bay Towing and Storage provides a trusted and reliable service for AA members.
- Problem-Solving Skills: From dealing with stubborn vehicles to coordinating with mechanics, the team demonstrates a clear ability to handle diverse challenges and find effective solutions.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Response Time | Generally very quick, even on public holidays |
| AA Approved | Works closely with the Automobile Association |
| Service Hours | Monday to Friday, 8 am - 4 pm |
| Key Drop-Off | Assistance with key drop-offs at service centres |
Navigating the Accessibility & Payment Ecosystem
Hawke’s Bay Towing and Storage understands that accessibility and convenient payment options are essential for a positive customer experience. They have made some key steps to provide for this, as evidenced by customer feedback and their facility details:
- Accessibility Features: The company prioritises inclusivity with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance, ensuring that people with mobility challenges can access their services with ease.
- Payment Flexibility: Recognizing customer preference, Hawke's Bay Towing and Storage accepts credit card payments, simplifying transactions and providing a modern payment experience.
- Location Considerations: While the location is a noted challenge (requiring specific entry instructions), the company's established presence and clear directions alleviate potential problems. It might be worth detailing the entry on their website or social media to assist first-time customers further.
- Future Enhancements: Consider highlighting the upcoming improvements and adding precise GPS coordinates on their website/Google listing to provode ease for first-time customers.