Meet the local team from Geeks on Wheels: Donavan (pictured) and Mike.
They are technicians for Geeks on Wheels, a national business that has spent more than a decade assisting New Zealanders with their IT needs.
The technicians play a key role in taking the stress and frustration out of IT issues by providing jargon-free, supportive help that not only solves the problem but upskills you as well.
Get to know the team and how they can help.
Tell us a bit about your background – your career to date, your experience… basically, how what you have done has got you to where you are today.
Donavan and Mike are the two local Tauranga technicians for Geeks on Wheels.
Introducing local Geek Donavan: A family man with a wife and nine-year-old son, Donavan comes to us by way of Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
An avid surfer with a love of the outdoors, he spent several years in South Africa working for an IT company as a Level 1 and Level 2 support technician. Bringing this wealth of technical experience with him, Donavan is very excited to be joining us at Geeks on Wheels. He feels the great work culture aligns well with his desire to create meaningful and sincere relationships with other people. Definitely our kind of guy!
Introducing local Geek Mike: Mike comes from a sales background, giving him an adaptability and client focused approach that works very well at Geeks on Wheels.
He understands that a lot of our customers don’t have much technical experience so it is vital they feel comfortable and confident when using their technology, and that he leaves a lasting impression by improving their life however he can.
Several years ago, Mike left South Africa to build a new life in New Zealand but, due to the incredible wildlife and scenery of his homeland, he still believes it is one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
When did you start your business? How long have you been operating?
Geeks on Wheels was started more than 15 years ago. Just over three years ago we welcomed husband and wife directors Matt and Cathy to our Geek world. They have been breathing new life into the company ever since bringing fresh, innovative ideas and motivating qualities to the Geeks on Wheels team – and we love ’em!
Why did you start your business?
Geeks on Wheels exists because New Zealanders are becoming more and more reliant on technology for work and pleasure, but technology and its benefits are changing at an ever-increasing rate.
A lot of everyday Kiwis struggle to keep up. To top that off most people in the computer industry focus on “BIG IT”. They don’t want to deal with the mundane and everyday tech challenges. We love that stuff and that is where most of our customers need help. We’re proud to be everyday Geeks, helping everyday Kiwi’s with “Everyday IT”.
Tell us about your business: What services do you offer? How can you help our business community?
We don’t just fix computers, we expand your knowledge to give you confidence with everyday tech. PC & Laptop Repairs, Email, Internet & WiFi, Computer Upgrades, File Recovery, Virus Removal, Setup & Installation, Geek+
Here’s a few fun facts about us:
- We’re 100% Kiwi-owned and operated.
- We provide local computer repair services throughout New Zealand.
- We have a dedicated, New Zealand-based call centre – you will be speaking to fellow Kiwis who are trained in providing expert computer support and laptop repair advice.
- ‘Set up my device today’ – Our famous, same-day service is available New Zealand-wide!
- Personal service with care – we deal with our customers directly, ensuring that you receive high-quality computer help, no matter the issue.
- Year-round support. We offer Geek+. A package deal that gives you unlimited expert service all year round with amazing added extras.
- Fair, honest, and reasonable pricing – whether you need computer support at your home or business, we treat all our customers equally. When you call Geeks on Wheels, you will receive the same superb standard of service at the same great rates – every time!
What makes your business unique?
Originally a business that was focused on fixing people’s computer issues, Geeks on Wheels has morphed to become experts across a broad range of commonplace technologies with quite a different value proposition than the original ‘fix and repair’ focus.
We discovered the REAL value we bring is not just about fixing a particular issue (which obviously has to happen), but is actually about taking the customer on a personalised journey through advice, knowledge and education about how technology can benefit them in and around their daily lives.
That led us to review our Mission Statement which now reads …
To be a trusted brand that provides solutions, knowledge and confidence to everyday users of technology.
What’s the one misconception people might have about your industry?
One misconception is that technology is scary. We love technology and we want to show people that it doesn’t have to be scary. We can translate difficult tech jargon into simple easy to understand language that will help people to be less scared of technology.
What’s the one thing you want people to know about your business?
We are a group of knowledgeable friendly Geeks who love helping people with their tech. We have recently launched a membership service. Pay one yearly fee and get access to all things Geeks on Wheels.
If you could impart one piece of advice to fellow business owners, what would it be?
Stay connected to each other, be forward thinking and don’t be scared of tech.
Do you want to be profiled?
Members can find it hard meeting people at events, so we want to take some of the pressure off that awkward small talk by shining a light on your business through our member profiles.
Our member profiles are a great way to give the business community a taste of who you are and what you do, so when they see your face at one of our events they won’t hesitate to make that all-important introduction.
