MORRIS CARS

MASS PRODUCTION PLANT

OPENED AT AUCKLAND

DOMINION MOTORS INDUSTRIAL

ENTERPRISE

Striking evidence of the ability of go-ahead New Zealand houses to establish Secondary industry on an economic footing is afforded by the big modern assembly plant recently opened by The Dominion Motors Limited at Newmarket, Auckland. This undertaking is of particular interest to New Zealanders, because it has been accomplished, not by an overseas organisation, but by a purely New Zealand concern; a company that is staffed by over 700 New Zea-

landers and is backed by New Zealand capital. It is a fitting climax to 20 years of progress by The Dominion Motors Ltd. and a long-stand-ing and happy association with the English motor-car organisation Morris Industries Exports Limited.

The Newmarket factory enables The Dominion Motors Ltd. to make an increasingly important contribution to New Zealand economy. It was planned, built and equipped by New Zealand craftsmen working in collaboration with experts from tKe Morris factory and when recently Mr Walter Norwood, general manager of The Dominion Motors Ltd., set the assembly line in operation, he had the satisfaction of knowing that this plant ranked with the most up-to-date in the industry.

Modernity is expressed in the exterior view of the plant. It is a compact brick-and-concrete structure of over 45,000 square feet, in a pleasant setting, with ample room for any future expansion. One is instantly struck with the generous use of glass and the modern saw-tooth roof, which give a maximum of natural light. Ventilation, too, has been scientifically achieved, and temperature control ensures pleasant working conditions. The staff quarters are in line with most modern thought; convenient and immaculate, they provide every amenity that the

most critical could desire. It is obvious that the band of engineers and craftsmen employed, will enjoy the very best conditions.

The layout of the actual factory is eye-opening. One sees how the disposition of various units saves time and • effort. How, from an orderly collection of components, small and large, all converging on a central line, the motor-car is born; takes shape, rigidity, mobility, colour, power and finally soft, purring life, as another Morris runs off the assembly line to join the thousands on the roads. The rugged British chassis frame of a Morris Eight, Twelve, or something bigger, is placed on the line and axles and springs are fixed in position; then the power unit and transmission are added; then radiator, brake gear and electrical units in readiness for the body which, simultaneously with the start made on the chassis, started on its Journey to the lacquer station. Specialised treatment with the very latest efficiency tools is given by the

groups of mechanics and engineers to each phase of the complete equipment of the chassis; there is check and countercheck; each Sectional operation must be passed by an inspector as the chassis progresses along the line; every nut, bolt, fixture or component, small or large is a tremendous trifle to the men along the assembly line. On every detail depends jealously-guarded Morris manufacturing prestige. Every item of assembly, tested and certified at Home, comes under personal inspection once more before it passes to its life's work.

Equally important are the processes through which the Morris bodywork passes. Spray guns, baking ovens and electro polishers work in turn fo achieve the mirror-like Morris finish. Then comes the fitting of toughened Safety glass,, the upholstering, the interior details, until the completed body reaches the main line and is dropped in place on the chassis. The final operations involve the electric wiring and the final checking of hydraulic brakes, headlights and other adjustments preliminary to the first road tests.

Any visitor to this modern assembly plant leaves with a clear-cut impression of thoroughness in craftsmanship and a full recognition of the enterprise of The Dominion Motors Ltd.