Volpower, New Zealand’s Volvo Penta distributor, has appointed Antoni Tisot as managing director and Laura Tisot, née Holyoake, as director of marketing and brand, continuing more than 35 years of Holyoake family ownership.
Wayne Patten will step back from day-to-day management at the end of November 2026 after 23 years as managing director. He will remain on the board and continue advising the team.
“It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to lead Volpower NZ Ltd for the past 23 years, representing Volvo Penta in our beautiful country,” said Patten.
“It’s time to step aside and welcome a new generation and new technology. The business remains in very capable hands, and I wish my successors all the best.”
Importer of the Year
Patten has worked in New Zealand’s marine industry for more than 28 years and previously headed NZ Marine’s Large Engine sector group. Volpower was named Volvo Penta Importer of the Year in 2019.
Antoni’s background includes heavy construction and industrial services, innovation work at Downer NZ and involvement in the early team at US equipment-hire business EquipmentShare. He also founded ELab, which helps businesses use AI and technology.
“Volpower has strong foundations: world-class products and technology in Volvo Penta and Humphree, and a team with a huge depth of technical and industry knowledge,” Antoni said.
Laura has worked in advertising with Jaguar Land Rover, Vodafone and Burger King, and at Shopify on business growth, events and training across Asia Pacific.
Passionate customers
Her Volpower remit covers brand, events and communications with dealers and customers.
“We know our dealers, boat builders and customers are passionate about what they do, on the water and off it,” she said.
“That means hearing from us more often, with useful information and a few good Kiwi stories along the way.”
Volpower NZ has distributed Volvo Penta in New Zealand and the South West Pacific since 1992.
Its network of more than 30 dealers supplies engines, parts, service and technical support to marine leisure, commercial and industrial customers. It also distributes Humphree, Racor and Pyrotek.
