About

I have spent 35 years in this industry. I know where the gaps are.

My name is Steve McAneney. I founded KIBŌ Learning Solutions because I believe the New Zealand automotive market deserves better training infrastructure than it currently has, and I have spent a career building exactly that, on three continents.

The Background That Matters to You

  • The world's largest automotive training and consultancy company. I developed and delivered training programmes for Mazda across multiple markets. This is where the frameworks I still use today were built.

  • Regional training role covering the Asia-Pacific market. 15 years living and working in Japan gave me a depth of cultural understanding, and an appreciation for the philosophy of Omotenashi, that shapes how I approach every client relationship.

  • Developed the foundation of Mazda’s domestic training organisation, and developed and conducted technical and sales training for global markets.

  • 16 years as Training and L&D Manager. Responsible for the entire technician and sales training architecture across the Mazda dealer network in New Zealand. This is where I learned what a mature, functioning OEM training structure looks like, and what happens when it is neglected.

  • Currently working with clients including Mazda NZ, BYD NZ and Hyundai NZ.

Why I Started KIBŌ

New Zealand is in the middle of the most significant technology shift the automotive industry has ever seen. Chinese EV brands are entering the market rapidly, legacy brands are managing increasingly complex model portfolios and tight competition, and technician capability is not keeping pace.

OEM distributors in New Zealand either rely on occasional overseas trainers or stretch their After-Sales teams to fill the gap. I started KIBŌ because there is a better way, I believe there is hope for the auto industry. And because I am the only person in New Zealand with the background to fix it properly.

Guided by Omotenashi

“Living in Japan for 15 years taught me that genuine service means anticipating someone’s needs before they have to ask. Every programme I build, and every conversation I have, is guided by that principle.”
— Steve McAneney

Testimonials

  • “Steve has developed high quality training manuals based on our brief and the original factory PPT’s. The courses have been professionally presented with students kept engaged via interactive quizzes and practical exercises. Highly recommended!” - Neil Griffiths, Warranty Manager

    —Neil Griffiths, BYD NZ

  • “Steve has been an invaluable partner in delivering highly engaging technical training for Hyundai New Zealand. His commitment to excellence and ability to simplify complex concepts makes KIBŌ a trusted training provider. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration.”

    —Joon Kim, Hyundai NZ

I am also a registered MITO Mentor, supporting the development of the next generation of New Zealand automotive technicians through the industry's primary qualification framework.