Obituary: Gerald Lawrence

The automotive industry is mourning the loss of Gerald Lawrence, the inaugural general manager of VINZ, who has died aged 80.

Lawrence, pictured, passed away on November 23. His funeral will be held at All Souls Chapel, Purewa, 100/102 St Johns Road, Saint Johns, Auckland, at 11am on Friday, November 29.

He led VINZ for 10 years from its start-up in the early 1990s until his retirement in November 2003.

Lawrence previously worked for Telarc SAI Ltd, which provides expert assessment and certification for New Zealand businesses. 

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has led the tributes to Lawrence and issued an email alert to members on November 28 informing them of his passing.

“Gerald took VINZ from a start-up that focused on entry certification through to a company that provides a range of services in addition to entry certification including warrants of fitness, certificates of fitness A and B, and public counter services for the NZTA,” it says.

“Gerald was well-liked by his staff who he treated as family, with many Friday afternoon barbecues held at the various bases around the country, plus memorable Christmas dinners for all the staff and their partners. He was also well respected by the whole industry.”

VIA notes Lawrence is now reunited with his wife Maureen, who predeceased him.