Our Story

The Beginning

Paul began his mechanical apprenticeship in 1983, pictured here as a 16 year old school leaver under the wing of Kibble and Burnett, Kingston upon Thames, UK. An old-school, family run business where good customer service was of the highest value. Customers became friends, friends became customers. Tea stirrers' mate was shortly promoted to chief tea maker and Paul still giggles as he reminisces over the days when practical jokes were played on him as an apprentices’ right of passage. Being sent for a ‘Long weight’ some “Sky hooks’ and ‘Tartan paint’ to name just a few of the many times he fell for the boss’ requests. Perhaps it was here that Paul developed his cockney humor that carried him through his 36 years of mechanical musings.

Working his way to partnership with lifelong friend Philip Burnett, the Mini duo spent spare time and weekends working on their side company, Mini Car Co. By his 21st birthday, Paul had built himself a 1955 Porsche Spyder Replica, just like the one movie icon James Dean died in. Motivated by his friends telling him he couldn’t do it, he bought the kitset and completed it in 8 months. Paul discovered that restoration was his passion and his additional skill set began. After 15 years of growth and some of the best years of his youth, Paul said farewell to the UK in 1997 to travel the world with partner Mel.

1997- 2005 

Completing world travels by purchasing an old Lambretta scooter on which to travel across India, Paul and Mel were satisfied they had captured enough inspiration and adventure to settle back down to work.

On his return to England, Paul was offered a position as mechanic for the prestigious Aston Martin specialists, R S Williams, and it was here that Paul accelerated his skills in restoration under the guiding eyes of some of his most respected peers in the industry. 

Two years after the birth of their first child, the Costin family made a huge leap across the seas. Emigrating to Christchurch New Zealand under the skills shortage quota.

2005- 2017

On arrival to New Zealand, Paul was employed by Upper Classics, where he remained for several years. His proud achievements included the restoration of two Aston Martin DB4s and the famous Mini Equip Arden 1969 British Saloon Car Championship Winner. Always going the extra mile, Paul’s research ensured this project had all of the correct details, right down to the hand painted details and gold leaf lettering.

Moving on, Pauls’ next distinguished position was with Auto Restorations where he furthered his abilities and work ethics, once again, learning from some of the finest craftsman in auto restoration. This final role as employee gave Paul the aptitude he needed to set up his own business. His now wide skill set mastering all aspects of restoration including mechanics, fabrication, welding, painting and business allowing him to work the entire job himself.

Where we are now- 2021 and beyond

Starting out on the family’s lifestyle property on the outskirts of Christchurch, Costin Revival Ltd began work from a converted barn, seeing way to several restoration projects including a Series 1 Land Rover.  

Costin Revival Ltd is now proudly operating from Sydenham, Christchurch. The tucked away workshop has all the conveniences of town, but retains a nostalgic, retro ambiance in which to take care of customers projects and repairs.

We love to meet new Customers so please do come by and pick up your free Costin Revival Ltd choke peg, a true period accessory.