About Us
Helping New Zealanders Stay Mobile Since 1990
At Braidens, we specialise in helping people become transport mobile, whether as a driver or passenger. We understand that there is no such thing as one-size fits all when it comes to disability transportation which is why every solution we offer is tailored to suit your individual needs, your lifestyle, and your vehicle.
We are proudly family-owned and operated, based in Carterton, Wairarapa, and we’ve been doing what we love for more than 35 years. Our passionate team is driven by the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to move safely and comfortably. We back this with top-quality workmanship, technical expertise, and a genuine care for the people we serve.
Our Story
Where it all began
Braidens was founded in 1990 by John Braiden, a skilled coachbuilder and engineer. The idea came to life when John had a conversation at his father-in-laws workshop, with an Occupational Therapist, about installing a rather large wheelchair hoist into a vehicle. John quickly saw problems with the large hoist and how it was not going to work well with the clients vehicle. John took on the job and modified the hoist to make it work well for their vehicle. Knowing there had to be a better way, John took matters into his own hands - literally - and built a superior hoist in his shed at home.
That first hoist, known as the Gentle Giant, was mounted on a trailer, powered by a car battery, and taken to the Disability Resource Centre in Palmerston North. The wheelchair hoist moved from the ground up to vehicle floor height and demonstrated how some Kiwi can-do attitude and number 8 wire could create a superior product to what was available on the market. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and just like that, Braiden Enterprises was born.
Over the years, John’s engineering expertise was put to work not just for clients, but also for his daughter Jessica, who was born with myotonic dystrophy. From custom-built walker frames to swing-out vehicle seats, John developed many mobility aids to support Jessica as she grew. His commitment to creating practical, compassionate solutions shaped the foundation of the business we are today.
Where We Are Now
Today, we operate from a much larger site - just across the road from where it all started. With 20+ staff members, multiple workshops, and a nationwide reputation for quality, Braiden's continues to lead the way in vehicle modifications for people with disabilities.
We’ve helped thousands of Kiwis across New Zealand to reclaim their independence and navigate life with confidence. And our values haven’t changed: we won’t send a vehicle out the door unless we’re 100% satisfied that it meets our high standards.
Leadership Team
John Braiden
Director
John started Braidens in 1990 with a vision to create better mobility solutions for people with disabilities. John grew up in a state house with four sisters and two brothers. He worked in Australia for 11 years before returning home in 1989. He gained a huge amount of knowledge from the companies that he worked for and as a family business Braidens treats staff as part of the family and looks after everyone involved.
John strongly believes in supporting the community and sponsors many children’s sports events, Special Childrens Christmas Parties and local clubs around the region.
Jason Swanson
General Manager
Jason has been with Braidens for over 20 years, working his way up through the ranks from the workshop floor to leadership. His knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to doing the right thing for every client have helped shape our company into what it is today.
With a background in electronics, Jason is especially skilled at solving complex technical challenges and is passionate about training the next generation of technicians.
Jason is very well known to many of our clients and is the first point of call if they have questions or need support. He’s always happy to help and will go the extra mile to make sure they’re looked after.
Blair Formosa
Operations Manager
Blair, daughter of founder John Braiden, officially joined the team in 2023. Having grown up in the workshop and alongside her sister Jessica, Blair brings a unique personal understanding of our clients needs.
With 17 years of experience in the insurance and customer service sector, Blair ensures operations run smoothly, managing everything from scheduling and logistics to liaising with OTs and funding providers.
Office Team
Ben Ross
Technical Specialist
Ben is one of the helpful faces you’ll see when you visit or call. He provides product advice, answers technical questions, helps with troubleshooting, and keeps our workshop stocked with the parts and equipment we need to get the job done right.
Lana Timperley
Office Administrator
Lana is often the friendly voice at the end of the phone. She coordinates jobs with OTs, clients, and funders and keeps on top of parts ordering and everyday logistics. Her attention to detail and organisational skills keep our operation running smoothly.
Kayla Henson
Office Administrator
Kayla is the newest member of the team, often your first point of contact when you walk in or call. She’s here to help direct enquiries, find the right person to assist you, and ensure you feel welcome and supported.
Workshop Team
Our dedicated workshop team includes a mix of long-standing experts and fresh talent. Some of our technicians have been with us for over 20 years, and we take great pride in mentoring newer team members and passing down knowledge.
We regularly run training sessions, both internally and with external providers, to ensure our staff are up to date with the latest techniques, technologies, and safety protocols. We believe in collaboration, process, and purpose, with each project thoughtfully planned and executed to the highest standard.
Our Promise to You
At Braidens, your safety, comfort, and independence are at the heart of everything we do.
With decades of experience and a genuine passion for helping others, we stand by the quality of our work and the care we put into every vehicle. Here's what you can expect when you choose us:
Top quality work - every time
Tailored solutions for real people
Trusted by funders, OT's & clients nationwide
Proudly NZ owned and operated
Need Advice or Support?
Whether you're starting your mobility journey or already working with an Occupational Therapist, we’re here to help.
Contact us for expert guidance, technical advice, or to book a consultation with our team.
Let Braidens help you or your loved ones move forward, safely and independently.
