Honda NZ Gets a New Boss – and She’s Making History!
Big shake-up in the Kiwi motoring world! Honda New Zealand has a new Managing Director, and she’s a trailblazer. Carolyn McMahon, currently Vice President and Director at Honda Australia, is stepping up to the plate on April 1st, 2025. That’s right, she’s crossing the ditch to take the reins and become the first female president to lead Honda’s operations in Aotearoa. Talk about smashing the glass ceiling! (and no, we’re not surprised).
McMahon brings nearly three decades of Honda experience to the table, so she’s definitely not a newbie. And while she’s been making waves across the Tasman, she’s also a Director of Honda New Zealand already, meaning she’s got a good grasp on the Kiwi market.
“I am honoured to take on this new role with Honda New Zealand,” McMahon said. “It’s an exciting time for the automotive industry, and I look forward to working with the talented team here to continue delivering exceptional experiences for our customers and further strengthening Honda’s presence in the market.”
This appointment comes as Nobuya Sonoda, the current Managing Director, moves on to a new role focusing on business services and new business programs, particularly in the electric vehicle space, for Honda Australia . Sonoda, who has been with Honda NZ since 2002, has spent the last 11 years at the helm and is clearly a Honda legend . He’s excited about the change and the chance to contribute to the evolving automotive landscape in Australia . Sounds like a win-win for everyone involved!







