There’s something reassuring about a locally owned dealership that’s been part of the community for years. City Honda Manawatu in Palmerston North is exactly that kind of place—a family-run business that sells motorcycles, lawnmowers, and used cars all under one roof. With 25 used vehicles listed on Trade Me as of May 2026, it’s become a go‑to for budget‑conscious buyers across the Manawatu region. This article walks you through what the dealership offers, how its used Hondas stack up, and what to watch for when buying.
Location: 487 Rangitikei Street, Palmerston North ·
Specialties: Motorcycles, outdoor power, parts ·
Trade Me Listings: 25 (May 2026) ·
New Car Sales: At Honda Store Manawatu
Quick snapshot
- City Honda Manawatu is at 487 Rangitikei St (City Honda official website)
- New car sales handled by Honda Store Manawatu (Honda NZ store locator)
- 25 used listings on Trade Me as of May 2026 (Trade Me Motors)
- Exact opening hours vary by department (City Honda Facebook)
- Warranty terms on used cars are not published online (City Honda Facebook)
- 25 used vehicle listings on Trade Me as of May 2026 – active inventory turnover
- Visit City Honda’s website or Facebook for current stock and hours
| Owner | Locally owned dealership |
|---|---|
| Address | 487 Rangitikei Street, Palmerston North |
| Phone | Available on Facebook and Trade Me |
| Specialties | Motorcycles, outdoor power, parts |
| New Car Dealer | Honda Store Manawatu (separate location) |
| Trade Me Listings | 25 as of May 2026 |
What services are offered by City Honda Manawatu?
New and used Honda vehicle sales
- New car sales are managed by Honda Store Manawatu, a separate location that also offers full servicing, finance, and genuine parts (Honda New Zealand – Honda Store Manawatu).
- City Honda Manawatu itself focuses on used cars, motorcycles, and outdoor power equipment.
The split is practical: one roof for everything new, another for the pre‑owned side. For buyers who want a brand‑new Honda, the store on the North Island is the destination.
Motorcycles and ATVs
- City Honda stocks a range of Honda motorcycles and ATVs, plus other leading brands (City Honda Manawatu – homepage).
Whether you’re after a workhorse quad or a weekend cruiser, the selection covers both on‑road and off‑road models.
Outdoor power equipment
- Honda lawnmowers, chainsaws, brushcutters, and water pumps are available (City Honda outdoor power section).
This is a niche many dealerships skip, but it’s a big draw for property owners in the Manawatu region.
Parts and accessories
- Genuine Honda parts and accessories for vehicles, motorcycles, and power equipment are stocked (Honda NZ parts).
Service and repairs
- Expert servicing for Honda vehicles, motorcycles, and equipment is offered on‑site (City Honda services).
The implication: you can buy a used Honda, have it serviced, and pick up a lawnmower—all at the same business. That convenience is a genuine advantage for local shoppers.
Which is better, Honda City or Honda Civic?
Three specs that separate these two popular sedans, one pattern: the City is the economical city runabout, the Civic is the more spacious, more powerful choice.
| Aspect | Honda City | Honda Civic |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L i‑VTEC, ~120 hp | 1.8L i‑VTEC, ~140 hp (Team Honda Blog) |
| Fuel economy | ~5.2 L/100 km combined | ~6.0 L/100 km combined |
| Interior space | Subcompact, tight rear legroom | Compact, more passenger and boot space |
| Price (used) | Typically $8k–$15k NZD | $12k–$22k NZD |
| Resale value | Good | Better (Consumer Reports) |
City drivers save at the pump but sacrifice space. Civic buyers pay more upfront but get a roomier, more refined car with stronger resale.
Engine and performance differences
- The Civic’s larger engine delivers noticeable acceleration, especially on open roads (YouTube used‑car guide).
- The City’s smaller engine keeps running costs low—a real bonus in stop‑start traffic.
Reliability and maintenance
- Both models are known for longevity, with many exceeding 200,000 km (Team Honda Blog).
- Common complaints for the City include CVT transmission issues in older models (Consumer Reports).
What this means: if fuel economy and low purchase price are your priorities, the City wins. If you carry passengers often or want a more enjoyable drive, the Civic is worth the extra cash.
What is the common issue with Honda City?
CVT transmission issues
- Early‑model Honda City CVTs (2008–2014) are prone to shuddering and premature failure (Consumer Reports).
Engine knocking
- Knocking can occur with low‑octane fuel; Honda recommends 91 RON or higher (Team Honda Blog).
Air conditioning failures
- Compressor failures are reported in warmer climates (Honda NZ service feedback).
Electrical gremlins
- Power window switches and central locking can develop faults (YouTube mechanics’ forum).
Suspension wear
- Rear suspension bushings wear out earlier than expected (Team Honda Blog).
The pattern: most issues are predictable and fixable. A pre‑purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic—like City Honda’s own service department—can catch them early.
What lasts longer, Toyota or Honda?
A five‑row snapshot of the longevity contest, one pattern: both brands are excellent, but Toyota edges ahead on pure reliability stats.
| Factor | Toyota | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Engine life (typical) | 250,000–300,000 km | 200,000–250,000 km (Consumer Reports) |
| Transmission durability | Often stronger automatics | CVTs can be weaker (Team Honda Blog) |
| Maintenance cost | Low, parts widely available | Similar, but some parts cost more |
| Resale value after 5 years | ~55% of new price | ~50% (Consumer Reports) |
| J.D. Power reliability score (2023) | 82/100 | 78/100 |
The catch: Honda owners often report a more engaging driving experience. If you prioritise fun over marginal reliability gains, Honda still delivers.
What used cars are available at City Honda Palmerston North?
Current inventory
- City Honda lists used cars and motorcycles on Trade Me, with 25 active listings as of May 2026 (Trade Me Motors).
- Stock includes Honda Jazz, Fit, Accord, and Civic models, plus other brands (City Honda inventory).
Prices and condition
- Prices range from about $8,000 to $25,000 NZD depending on age and mileage.
- Honda Premier Class used vehicles are described as high‑excellence, thoroughly inspected (Honda NZ – Premier Class).
Financing and trade‑ins
- Finance options and trade‑in valuations are available through the dealership.
For local buyers, the ability to browse online and test drive on Rangitikei Street makes the process straightforward.
A used Honda from an official dealer like City Honda gives you access to Premier Class vehicles and expert servicing—two advantages over a private sale.
Pros and cons of buying used at City Honda
Upsides
- Locally owned, community‑focused service
- One‑stop shop: cars, bikes, lawn gear, parts
- Honda Premier Class inspection program
- Active online presence with transparent Trade Me listings
Downsides
- New cars only available at separate Honda Store Manawatu
- Limited inventory – 25 cars as of May 2026
- Warranty terms on used cars not clearly published
- No 24/7 online booking for test drives
Clarity check: what we know and what’s fuzzy
Confirmed facts
- City Honda Manawatu is at 487 Rangitikei St, Palmerston North (City Honda site)
- New car sales are handled by Honda Store Manawatu (Honda NZ)
- 25 used listings on Trade Me as of May 2026 (Trade Me)
What’s unclear
- Exact opening hours vary by department – check Facebook or call
- Detailed warranty coverage for used cars is not listed online
- Whether City Honda services non‑Honda vehicles is not confirmed
What owners and experts say
“City Honda Manawatu is a locally owned dealership in Palmerston North, specialising in motorcycles, outdoor power equipment, parts, accessories, and expert services.”
— City Honda Manawatu website
“Don’t end up with someone else’s headache. Reliability is the key filter when choosing a used car for city driving.”
— Consumer Reports
“The badge on the hood matters less than the car’s history. Always check the service records and research the specific model year.”
— Used‑car guide, YouTube
Three perspectives, one thread: a locally owned dealership adds trust, but a thorough check of the individual car’s history remains essential.
For those exploring their options, a comprehensive guide to Palmerston North car dealers can help compare local dealerships and their offerings.
Frequently asked questions
Does City Honda Manawatu offer financing?
Yes, financing options are available through the dealership. Contact them directly or visit their Facebook page for current rates.
What brands of outdoor power equipment do they carry?
They carry Honda lawnmowers, chainsaws, brushcutters, and water pumps. Check their outdoor power section for the full range.
Do they service non-Honda vehicles?
Their website lists expert services but does not specify non-Honda vehicles. Call ahead to confirm.
Can I book a test ride online?
Booking is not available through the website at this time. Contact them via Facebook or phone to arrange a test ride.
What are the opening hours on public holidays?
Hours vary by department. Check City Honda’s Facebook page or call on the day for holiday schedules.
Is there a warranty on used cars?
Honda Premier Class vehicles come with a warranty, but specific terms are not published online. Ask the dealership for details.
Do they sell used motorcycles?
Yes, used motorcycles from Honda and other brands are part of their inventory. Check Trade Me or visit the showroom.
How do I contact the parts department?
Call the dealership using the number on their Facebook page or visit the parts counter at 487 Rangitikei Street.
For buyers in Palmerston North and the wider Manawatu, the choice is clear: visit City Honda for a test ride and a hands‑on look, or risk buying a car without knowing its full history. A locally owned dealership that offers service, parts, and power equipment under one roof is hard to beat.