The Downs business was established in 1956 by Jim Downs. Jim quickly gained a reputation as New Zealand’s expert on 2 stroke motors, and on chainsaws in particular. Initially he represented the McCulloch and Homelite agencies in the South Auckland area, however as his reputation grew he was called on to service saws from all over the country and was widely recognised as New Zealand’s foremost chainsaw mechanic. In 1985, impressed by the quality of the product, Jim took on the Stihl agency in New Zealand. He was instrumental in establishing the brand, and expanding it to the market leadership position that it enjoys today.

Initially established on the Great South Road at Ramarama, Jim moved the business to Drury where it is still located. Jim eventually passed the business on to his son in law. The current owners, Sue and Ross Warren who are long term Drury residents and have been faithful Downs customers over many years purchased the business in 2004. Since taking over, they have concentrated on implementing modern systems within the business and ensuring that the service levels meet the customer expectations wherever possible. While continuing as South Auckland’s premier Stihl specialist dealer, Downs also represent a number of major Outdoor Power Equipment brands, including Husqvarna, Masport, Honda, Echo, Solo, Greenfield, Tanaka, Rover, Victa, Silky, Wolf Garten. Downs are proud to offer one of the most extensive ranges of Outdoor Power Equipment, and with trained, qualified and dedicated mechanics we provide service facilities second to none.