Russell Guy (aka Russ/Boss)
Russell started in the automotive trade straight out of college. Working at two different workshops one specialising in Citron's and one in all makes and models, Russell then founded Kenepuru Cars with his father in 2004 at the ripe old age of 18. Russell is MTA qualified, a NZ Advanced Vehicle Inspector (WOF authority), and in that time has built Kenepuru Cars into a preferred repairer for all major insurance company's and supplier of a huge range of products and services such as diesel tuning upgrades, MCC 4x4 accessories, Hella Electrical, supplier of all leading tyre brands and much more.
In his down time his wife Alicia and two little girls Payge and Paytin take top priority, with (and in no particular order in case his precious motorbike takes offence) hunting, fishing, and getting out on his Harley Davidson rounding out his hobbies.
Ben Kam (aka Oddjob)
Originally from Hong Kong, Ben started with Kenepuru Cars in 2017 doing work experience while he was at college. Turns out Ben enjoyed it so much he joined fulltime as soon as he turned 18. Since then Ben has graduated from Weltec in 2018 with his NZQA – National Certificate in Automotive Electrical & Mechanical Engineering 4. Russell claims Ben has learned everything he knows at the feet of the master. Ben, on the other hand, would argue the student has become the master. This is often the cause for robust debate in the garage.
In his spare time Ben rates himself as quite the food critic, an avid gamer, with a passion for motorbikes (this is a theme running through the team!). But more often than not you'll find him working hard on whatever car he is currently fixing.
Adam Paterson (aka Carnie)
Let’s be honest, Adam eats, sleeps and breathes anything mechanical. Born into a huge drag racing and mechanically minded family, we suspect Adam was actually bottle-fed unleaded petrol as a child and dreams of American V8s in his sleep.
Following his father into the trade, Adam has got significant experience under his belt. Over the years he has worked for the likes of Wellington European and Dave Hadley’s. This means he is just as good with European and Japanese cars as he is with American.
Adam is certified in WOF, air con, with NZ Level 4 automotive and is currently training in auto electrical as well.
In his spare time…who are we kidding…Adam works on cars.
Ramon Greenbank
A Tawa local, Ramon has worked in the automotive trade from the get go with nearly 30 years experience in the trade. Graduating with an Automotive Engineering course from Wellington Polytechnic in the mid 90’s, he’s worked at Bean Auto Services, Newlands Park Auto Centre and spent 13 years with G Guy Motors before coming on board with the Kenepuru Car Service Centre team. Trained in everything from general repair and maintenance, WoF inspection to auto electrical engine conversions, Ramon has a particular interest in modified vehicles. It’s easy enough to spot him when you come in, he’s the one singing in the workshop.
When he’s not working Ramon says he enjoys a good drive in the countryside (driving…who would’ve thought!) and is especially happy when he can string together a decent amount of PlayStation time in one sitting.
Hurrell Seuava (aka Bruno)
Bruno first started in the automotive trade by completing an apprenticeship course at Polytech, then began work experience at Kenepuru Cars in 2012 before becoming a full time member of the workshop team in 2013. Bruno is the powerhouse of the workshop and you will always find a smile on his face, even when analysing the trickiest of automotive problems. His family hails from Samoa but he has lived locally all his life and family is his cornerstone, especially his two sons Xavier and Logan.
In 2020, Bruno began to pursue another one of his interests – Marine Engineering and Mechanics. Having already achieved his Marine Engineering ticket and completing Marine Mechanic Level 1 (Class 6), he is currently working towards his Marine Class 5 licence. He now divides his time between engines on sea and land but you will still find him working part time in the workshop on his first love – cars.
In his spare time (which he claims to not have enough of) you will find this self-confessed gym junkie off road biking, hanging with his family, or not surprisingly, at the gym.
Bonita Paige (aka Bonnie)
Bonnie is a self-confessed Grease Monkey having grown up around hotrods her whole life. With both her Dad and Grandad being diesel mechanics it’s fair to say her destiny was set from an early age.
After leaving school, Bonnie embraced her destiny and completed the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering, Level 3 at Whitireia WelTec.
As the new Apprentice in the team, Bonnie is learning on the job and we suspect will soon be running circles round everyone else.
Outside of the garage, Bonnie is a keen animal lover who can also rodeo. Taming wild horses is a skill that will hold her in good stead inside the garage also, just in case the need arises. But Bonnie’s favourite animal by far is her dog who she loves going on long car trips and beach walks with. The dog’s name is Asunka Lee Cresion. If you can’t pronounce it, feel free to ask Bonnie how when you next visit the team.
Sam Morgan (aka The Cowboy)
Sam was brought up with petrol running through his veins. Coming from a motoring family with a passion for rotaries, Sam grew up sitting on the side-line of racetracks so it’s safe to say from an early age he knew his career would focus on cars.
After leaving school, getting his Level 4 qualification in Mechanical Engineering and becoming a qualified mechanic, Sam moved into management as a Service Advisor for Ford and Mazda before moving into construction as a National Service Manager for small plant equipment. Returning to his roots and heading back onto the tools and management allows Sam the enjoyment of both worlds.
Outside the workshop Sam enjoys working on his own BMW track car, and spending time with his wife Oakley, 2 dogs (Memphis and Dakota) and 2 cats (Dallas and Harry). Country music and a passion for V8s earned him the nickname The Cowboy with his peers and it is now stuck for life.
Emma
Emma (aka XXXXXX - Censored) grew up in rural Cambridge and has always had a keen interest in engineering. In her final year at school, she even designed and built an E-Vehicle for a competition! Emma started doing work experience while she was doing NZQA Automotive Level 3 and is beginning Level 4 in 2024.
But engineering is not her only passion. After leaving school, Emma walked Te Araroa solo – the 3,000km trail from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It took her 5 months to complete, which just highlights her grit and determination (not to mention fitness). Outside the workshop Emma competes in CrossFit and Powerlifting holding 4 GPC New Zealand Records. She also enjoys spending time tramping and mountain biking. So basically, she can run circles round the rest of the team!
Sharon Dodd (aka Shazz, Shazza, Workshop Mum)
A born and bred Porirua local Sharon is arguably the most important member of the Kenepuru Cars team! With a finance and office management background, Shazz is the one that holds all the pieces together, ensuring things get done expertly, on time and on budget.
When Shazz isn’t running the office and keeping the boys in line, she is a busy Mum of two, Anthony and Shaela. She also manages to find time to help her husband Shane run their painting business. So when this multitasking megastar does have spare time, you can be certain she is spending it with her family - on the farm or quite possibly riding dirt bikes.