Turning Passion into a Leading Custom Car Business

From a one-man workshop in 1994 to one of New Zealand’s top custom car and restoration businesses, CSR Custom Street Rides is a true Kiwi success story. Founded by Kevin Walsh, CSR is the evolution of a lifelong passion for building cars, which started with his first business, Walsh Auto Services, over 30 years ago and is still operating successfully today.

In 2010, Kevin launched CSR to focus on high-end custom builds, and the business has grown steadily ever since. Today, CSR employs a team of 11 and is known nationwide for turning classic cars into award-winning showstoppers. In 2017, they won Best Custom Commercial Vehicle in New Zealand with a stunning 1951 Chev Pickup and have been featured in magazines and TV programmes ever since.

Growth and Resilience in a Competitive Industry

CSR is all about quality, creativity and staying ahead of the curve. Kevin continually invests in new tools and technology to keep CSR at the cutting edge of the industry. By marketing past and recent builds more effectively and importing parts directly from overseas, CSR has successfully attracted new clients from across the North Island, leading to its most profitable year to date.

In a competitive and fast-changing industry, CSR has remained resilient. Kevin’s approach of importing parts directly helps manage rising costs while maintaining top-tier craftsmanship. His team has grown alongside the business, which now ranks among New Zealand’s top ten custom car and restoration businesses.

Big Plans for the Future

Kevin’s sights are now set on something even bigger: displaying one of CSR’s custom cars at a world-leading car show in Las Vegas within the next two years, an exclusive invitation-only event. This ambition underscores CSR’s commitment to innovation and excellence in custom car building.

Support from SBA New Plymouth

“This remarkable progress wouldn’t have been possible without the steady support of SBA New Plymouth. From managing payroll and taxes to ensuring we stay in good standing with the IRD, their expert guidance has allowed me to focus on what I do best, building bold, beautiful cars that turn heads and win hearts. Their advice on financial clarity and confidence, including keeping taxes up to date and ensuring end-of-year financials work in my favour, has been invaluable.” – Kevin Walsh, Owner, CSR Custom Street Rides

Kevin Walsh’s story is one of dedication, craftsmanship and growth, and we’re proud to recognise CSR Custom Street Rides as this year’s SBA Small Business of the Year Runner-Up. Congratulations from everyone at SBA Small Business Accounting.

To visit CSR Custom Street Rides’ Facebook page, click here.