15/06/2026
Wanganui Motors has a new Dealer Principal. With the recent announcement of Mark Quirk’s retirement, the New Dealer Principal Dalin Wilson has come on board. Pop on in to meet Dalin and say hi and check out the Field Days deals
Wanganui Motors - new leadership
Wanganui Motors Ltd, Whanganui’s longest-serving car dealership, has undergone a leadership change. After 20 years at the helm and more than 50 years in the industry, Mark Quirk has retired. Dalin Wilson has stepped in as Dealer Principal to lead the business forward.
“Mark had a phenomenal career. I’ve learned a few bits and pieces from him along the way. So, we're still in contact, even though he's in the garden a little bit more.”
Dalin brings 15 years of experience from Courtesy Ford in Palmerston North, where he progressed from cadet salesperson to new- and used-car sales manager.
“I’m excited to be part of Wanganui Motors’ heritage. Mark told me I’m only the eighth dealer principal since 1963. That's a pretty big achievement and something that's certainly not taken lightly, that's for sure.”
“My goal is to build on the existing foundations and further serve the community.”
Dalin aims to empower his team and foster collaboration, believing that understanding other roles helps everyone perform better.
His approach aligns with Ford’s philosophy of open communication and dealership input.
“I’ve seen a bit more of the airport recently. I’m off to meetings on a regular basis, launches or new initiatives that they want to get your feedback in person, which is great to be able to have the ability to give that feedback. As I say, it's an ever-evolving business, which I love.”
Murray O’Hara, a local legend in the car industry, has recently cut back his hours, too, and Dalin says “I think it'd be a disservice to Wanganui Motors to lose Murray completely. I think he's a pillar of the community, and not just in the rugby side of things. I think he embodies what Wanganui Motors stands for.”
Stepping up to a full-time role as Ford's new car sales manager is Thor Bjornsson, a Whanganui-born and bred lad who has come over from a Fielding branch manager role at Courtesy Ford, having previously worked at Harvey Round Motors and the Ignition Motor Group in Whanganui.
Dalin describes Thor as having a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm.
Change is inevitable, but Wanganui Motors' customer experience remains central to the business. The dealership aims to meet every automotive need, from sales and accessories to finance, servicing, and ongoing support.
As Dalin says, “We make big financial purchases in our lives; one's your house and the other is your vehicle. Safety for you and yours on the road is paramount and knowing there’s a team you can trust to provide and maintain that for the life of your vehicle is important.
I believe we’ve got the team to do just that.”
The business will also continue its proud tradition of supporting the community through sport and local charities.
