Halbro Forklifts of Auckland, New Zealand is opening a new branch in Christchurch, due to increased demand for the Hyundai brand of forklifts, for which it is the exclusive distributor in the country.

According to new owner Tim Eaden, who bought the 33-year old company in November last year, the Hyundai brand is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability. Priced in the mid-range bracket, it is becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand, he says.

The company has just received its first shipment of the latest LPG and diesel 7 series forklifts, adding to the already extensive 7 series range. They feature sealed wet disk brakes and a low-vibration design, with an emphasis on driver comfort and enhanced safety features.

"The product has the biggest fuel tank in its class at 55 litres, and its efficiency in low-speed operations is enhanced with high engine torque in the mid- to low-rev range where most operations are performed," says Eaden.