Betta Motor Works is locally owned and operated by Brent & Marilyn Beard. From its beginnings in 1999 as Beta Grip On & Off Road - Vehicle handling and suspension specialists, it has transformed into BETTA MOTOR WORKS – Independent Specialists in BMW.
Brent seized the opportunity in 2001 to capatilise on his BMW training and qualifications and became the BMW Authorised Service Centre in Whangarei. In 2006 after relinquishing the BMW Authorised Service Centre they became Independent BMW Specialists, allowing then to offer high quality after-market parts alternatives to customers along with continuing to offer genuine BMW parts.
Rebranding in 2008 saw them change their name to BETTA MOTOR WORKS allowing them to focus on Specialist BMW services they offer. They are the only BMW Specialists in Northland with over 18 years of experience on BMWs.
Brent completed his Automotive Engineering Apprenticeship at Jim Murdoch Motors in Kerikeri. The rural garage gave Brent an excellent grounding with the opportunity to learn the trade on an abundance of vehicles from all over Northland.
While at Jim Murdoch Motors, Brent began his BMW training with a course through BMW New Zealand. He enjoyed working with the prestige, advanced technology vehicle so much that when he left Jim Murdoch’s after six years he moved to Auckland and joined Team McMillan BMW in Newmarket.
Brent qualified as a registered BMW Technician and worked solely on BMW’s. His hard work paid off – Brent made the finals of the national BMW Technician of the Year competition in 1997 & 1999. Brent was also awarded the John Leggatt Memorial Trophy for the most improved BMW Technician in 1997. The competition tests were based on theory, practical and diagnostic skills.
After six years in Auckland and the birth of their first child, Brent and his wife Marilyn moved their family to Whangarei. Both were originally from Northland and decided the time was right to return home to raise a family and go into business. Marilyn’s history in computer sales and support set her up well for her role of managing the office and marketing the business. Brent, Marilyn and the Betta Motor Works team are committed to their goal of providing the best service possible to their customers. They also know that establishing a rapport with their customers is equally important.
“It’s a family business so we have a personal interest on the business and in our customers – that will always be the case while we are here.”