AARON WATERS IS COUNTRY MANAGER FOR PETSTOCK NEW ZEALAND
So you’re driving a 2014 Ford Kuga?
Dark blue, auto — I love the comfort of it. It is the first car with manufacturer’s Bluetooth so it is great for keeping in touch with my team. My wife is a Holden fan so I think it’s hilarious that we have a Ford parked in the driveway.
Having the dog images on your car attracts a bit of attention? Tell us more …
We got them done at Signwise. Kids love them and I often see them waving at the car when I am stopped at lights.
What is the best way to transport dogs and other pets?
The best way is to have a harness that is attached to the seatbelt, keeps the dog safe if you have to stop suddenly. If you’re travelling with a cat, use a large cat carrier or cage. Take along a water bowl that stores water and you can let a little out each time you need a pit stop.
Who else is allowed to drive your car?
Just me as it’s a company car.
What do you always have in your car?
Mints, water bowl, poo bags and tennis ball for my dog Milly, a 6-year-old staffy cross.
How often do you clean your car?
Weekly. I know it sounds cheesy but I love our brand and want to make sure it always looks its best.
Any other changes you have had to make so you can use this vehicle for work?
Not really.
Manual or automatic, which do you prefer?
Definitely automatic as it allows me to enjoy the drive.
Your dream car?
A 1967 Mustang Fastback — same as the car named Eleanor in the movie Gone in 60 Seconds. I would love to own a classic car that was restored by a professional.
Who taught you to drive?
Dad on the orchard, I learned to drive a tractor first then I was let loose on the car.
Most memorable road trip?
Driving from Christchurch to Queenstown — the most beautiful piece of the country.
If you could go on a road trip anywhere in the world with any celebrity?
I would travel Highway 69 from coast to coast in the USA with Tim Allen. I think he would be a laugh a minute — I was addicted to Home Improvement.
Do you have a favourite car scene from a movie?
It would have to be when Nicolas Cage stole Eleanor in the movie Gone in 60 Seconds. I loved that he talked and coerced the car into starting. It reminds me of my first car, a Ford Escort that was temperamental in the cold.
What’s a great day trip out of Auckland?
Goat Island with the kids, they love snorkelling and seeing all the fish.
Other drivers ... what irritates you most?
When drivers are not polite and don’t let you in when the traffic is backed up.
If you could change one road rule what would it be?
Allowing dogs to be counted as passengers in the transit or T2 lanes.
And your take on Auckland traffic?
For employers to be as flexible as they can. Where possible we let our team start early and finish early. They still get the job done and it means they don’t spend half their life on the road.