MOTOR VEHICLE IMPORTS

Imports of motor vehicles into New Zealand last year constituted a record. The total number, excluding motor-cy-cles, was 22,321 for 1925, as against 18,629 in 1924. According to country of origin, 15 1-3 per cent, of the total came from Britain, 44 per cent, from Canada, 38 1-3 per cent, from the United States, and 2 1-5 per cent, from Europe. The percentage of British cars has risen I from 6J per cent, in 1924 to 15 1-3 per ! cent, last year. The numbers in 1925 were 2882 -s against 1015 in 1924. The | average value at port of shipment of British cars has declined from £547 in 1922 to £286 last year. Canadian and American cars in the same period have changed little in value at port of shipment, Canadian £170 in 1922 and £171 in 1925; American £202 in 1922 and £180 in 1925. In regard to commercial vehicles the proportions from the various countries are: Britain, 15 per cent.; Canada, 47 per cent.; U.S.A., 37 per cent.; and Continental, 1 per cent. On a financial reckoning Britain makes a better showing, taking 24$ per cent.. of the business, as against Canada's.3s per cent, and U.S.A.'s 38 per cent. Wellington is chief port of reception, with 35} per cent, of the cars imported, as against Auckland's 28 per cent. In. regard to motor-cycles, Britain holds now an easy lead, with 3211 machines, against America's 1621. The total number of motor-cycles imported in 1925 was 4836, as against 2296 in 1924. On the contrary, Britain only supplies 4 J per cent, of the tires importI ed, Canada lending 51) per cent., and U.S.A. 21f per cent., France i 3 third I with 13 per cent. The value of tires imported last year was £1,148,075. The total value of cars, trucks, tires, } and spares imported last year was £4,966,129, made up as follows:— Cars, £2,435,303; trucks, £485,870; tires, £1,803,959; and spares, £240,----997. The figures are taken from the excellent compilation by "The Radiator."