Garmin Ltd. is parting company with GME Electrophone, its distributor in Australia and New Zealand for the past 17 years, and plans to open company-owned offices. It’s formed Garmin Australasia Pty Ltd for that purpose. The new facility will include a warehouse, sales, marketing and support for customers in the region. Garmin and GME say they are working together for a smooth transition. The transition for Australia is expected to be completed on July 1. The transition for New Zealand is expected to be completed on Jan. 1, 2009.