Guides for Kiwi drivers.
Practical, jargon-free advice on insurance claims, choosing a repairer, and what to do in the minutes after a crash in New Zealand.
What to Do After a Car Accident in New Zealand: A Step-by-Step Guide
A calm, practical checklist for the first 24 hours after a crash — what NZ law requires, what your insurer needs, and how to pick the right repairer.
- · 1. Make the scene safe
- · 2. Exchange the right details
- · 3. Lodge the claim early
- · 4. Choose a panel beater you trust
How to Choose a Panel Beater in NZ: 8 Things to Check
Not all panel shops are equal. Use this checklist to separate the structurally-certified pros from the back-shed quick-fixers.
Panel Beater vs Spray Painter vs Auto Body Shop: What's the Difference?
If you're staring at a quote that lists three trades, here's what each one actually does — and why you might only need one.
How Much Does Panel Beating Cost in NZ? (2026 Price Guide)
From a $250 paintless dent pull to a $12,000 structural rebuild — what Kiwi drivers actually pay panel beaters in 2026.
How NZ Car Insurance Claims Work for Panel Damage
Everything Kiwi drivers need to know about insurance claims for collision damage — from first call to keys back.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) in New Zealand: Is It Right for Your Car?
PDR is faster and cheaper than traditional panel beating — but only if the paint is intact and the dent is in the right spot.
What I-CAR Gold Class Certification Actually Means (and Why It Matters in NZ)
Less than 10% of NZ collision shops are I-CAR Gold Class. Here's why that certification protects your safety and your warranty.
Repairing Electric Vehicles After a Crash in NZ: What's Different
Tesla, Polestar, BYD, Kia EV6 — repairing an electric car after a prang is a different trade. Here's how to do it right.
Lifetime Warranties on Panel Beating: What's Actually Covered?
A lifetime warranty sounds great — until you read what's excluded. Here's what reputable NZ shops actually cover.
Smash Repair vs Panel Beating: Same Thing, Different Name?
Spoiler: they're mostly the same. But the naming hints at what the shop actually specialises in.
How Long Will My Car Be at the Panel Beater? Realistic Timeframes
From a same-day bumper respray to 8 weeks for a complex EV rebuild — what to expect and why parts are usually the bottleneck.
Do You Get a Courtesy Car While Yours Is Being Repaired in NZ?
Some policies include a courtesy car. Most don't — here's how to get one anyway, and what NZ panel beaters typically offer.
DIY Panel Repair vs Calling a Pro: When It's Worth Doing Yourself
A $20 touch-up pen can fix a stone chip beautifully. A YouTube dent-puller will probably make your problem worse.
Aluminium Car Panel Repair NZ: A Guide for Kiwi Drivers
Repairing aluminium panels requires specialised tools and expertise compared to traditional steel. Learn what Kiwi vehicle owners need to know about costs and safety.
Car Rust Repair vs Panel Replacement: A Guide for NZ Drivers
Is that brown spot on your door a quick fix or a costly replacement? We explore the best ways to tackle the unique challenges of coastal car rust in NZ.
Chassis Straightening & Structural Repair: A Guide for NZ Drivers
If your vehicle has suffered structural damage in a crash, chassis straightening is essential for safety. Discover how modern technology restores your car to factory specs.
Leased or Financed Car Repair: A Guide for NZ Drivers
Getting a dent in a leased or financed car can be stressful. Learn how to handle repairs correctly to satisfy your contract and protect your wallet.
ADAS Calibration: Why Your Car Needs It After a Crash
Modern cars rely on a complex network of sensors and cameras to keep you safe. After a collision, these systems require precise recalibration to ensure features like emergency braking still function correctly.