At just 15 years old, Dustin Wright is already making a name for himself in the Hurunui district with his new ute cleaning business.

Wright began learning the skill at home when Hawarden–based Wright helped his father, truck driver and farmer Ian Wright, clean his work trucks.

"I started cleaning trucks with my Dad, and I enjoyed it so much I decided to start my own business, Dusty's Detailing."

Wright honed his skills by helping the car detailer at the local sales yard and workshop, Arthur Burke, and learning the tricks of the trade.

"I've learned a lot about cleaning methods and how to use chemicals properly."

The business, which operates over school holidays and weekends, has quickly gained traction.

Most of his clients are local dairy farmers, and the work isn't for the faint-hearted.

Some farm utes require five to six hours to clean.

"Some of the utes I clean haven't been touched in years," Wright laughs.

"One had green mould all over it."

Local farmers have been impressed with his efforts, though, and he is already getting repeat customers.

Some have even praised his work, saying it's like getting a brand new ute.

The business has given Wright a taste of marketing, as he has had to set up social media pages for the enterprise, learn how to deal with customers, and negotiate pricing –with some help from his Mum, Jac.

"I need to charge what I'm worth but also want to keep my services affordable."

He has taken his business to the city, cleaning housemasters' cars at the Christchurch Boy's High School hostel Adams House, where he boards.

Wright intends to save his business proceeds for his first car, which he hopes will be a ute, although his parents aren’t too keen on that idea.

It's not the first time Wright has shown determination.

Despite facing challenges with dyslexia, Wright is passionate about trucks and has contributed articles for Little Truckers magazine since he was in primary school.

"It's a bit challenging, but I enjoy sharing my experiences."

Wright is realistic about the future of his new venture, and attending truck shows with his Dad has him dreaming of driving a big rig himself.

"I see this as a holiday job for now.

"I want to drive logging trucks when I finish school."

By Claire Inkson