Daniel Stoneley

Daniel is standing in front of green John Deere equipment, smiling at the camera.

Meet Daniel Stoneley

"I grew up in a rural town, but didn’t know anything about farm machinery. This win is proof that if you’re passionate enough about something, you can accomplish things you never previously imagined."

Passion pays off for Daniel

For Daniel Stoneley, being named the 2024 John Deere New Zealand Parts Technician of the Year shows that if you're passionate about something, "anything's possible".

"I was pretty nervous leading up to the winner announcement, but quietly confident at the same time," Daniel said.

"During the testing I was trying to not overthink things and just remind myself most of it was stuff I do every day.

"I grew up in a rural town, but didn't know anything about farm machinery. This win is proof that if you're passionate enough about something, you can accomplish things you never previously imagined."

That passion was sparked while working as an agricultural parts technician and service manager for four years before joining Wairarapa Machinery, now Brandt, in 2019 to begin working with John Deere equipment.

He quickly learnt the products and systems needed to excel, moving up into his current role as Parts Department Manager at the dealership based in Masterton on New Zealand's North Island.

"It was quite a challenge when I first started in agriculture, but once my knowledge developed I started really enjoying what I was doing," Daniel said.

"Agriculture is the backbone of the country, and I get a lot of satisfaction working in such an important industry.

"It's always evolving which really keeps your mind active and wanting more challenges. The technology in John Deere equipment is always changing too, and I'm proud to work on the market-leading brand and be part of such a great support network."

For Daniel, the customers and colleagues he interacts with each day are the best part of his job. One of those customers, Matt Loveridge, said Daniel has consistently exceeded his expectations.

"One of Daniel's strengths is his customer service – he's always happy to help, and nothing is too big of a problem," Matt said.

"His depth of knowledge and experience in the industry helps him solve any issues that may arise.

"It's been great to see Daniel develop into his role as Parts Department Manager, ensuring a great customer experience for everyone who comes to the dealership.

"Having relationships like what we have with Daniel is an asset to our business."

For more information about John Deere’s Technician of the Year Awards : In Australia visit: https://www.deere.com.au/ In New Zealand visit: https://www.deere.co.nz/