Blog
Advice from the workshop
Straight-talking guides on accident repairs, coastal rust, paintwork and insurance claims.
Insurance & Claims
What Photos Should You Take After a Car Accident for an Insurance Claim?
A practical guide for New Zealand drivers on what to photograph after a car accident — from wide scene shots to close-up damage photos — to support your insurance claim and repair quote.
12 August 2026
Insurance & Claims
What Is a Car Insurance Excess in New Zealand – and When Do You Pay It?
A simple guide for Kiwi drivers: what an insurance excess is, when you pay it, what happens when the accident is not your fault, and why a professional repair assessment matters before you decide to claim.
12 August 2026
Insurance Repairs
Should I Claim Insurance or Pay for the Car Repair Myself?
Deciding whether to make an insurance claim or pay for car repairs yourself depends on repair costs, your excess, and the full extent of the damage. Here's how to compare both options.
11 August 2026
Insurance Repairs
Do I Have to Use My Insurance Company's Panel Beater?
In New Zealand, your insurance policy determines whether you can choose your own panel beater. Here's how to ask your insurer, what approved repairer networks mean, and why you can still request Orewa Panel & Paint.
11 August 2026
Insurance Repairs
How Do Insurance Car Repairs Work in New Zealand?
A step-by-step guide to insurance car repairs in New Zealand: from lodging a claim and damage assessment to repair authorisation, excess, and getting back on the road.
11 August 2026
Accident Repairs
Had a Car Accident? Here's What to Do Next
A practical guide for New Zealand drivers after a car accident: stay safe, exchange details, take photos, and start your insurance repair claim.
9 August 2026
Rust Repairs
Why rust spreads fast on the Hibiscus Coast
Living close to the sea is great for weekends and hard on vehicles. Here is how coastal salt air causes rust and why early repair saves money.
2 August 2026
Vehicle Painting
How automotive colour matching actually works
Two cars with the same factory colour code can still look different. Here is how we match paint so a repaired panel disappears into the rest of your vehicle.
23 July 2026
Send us photos. Get a repair quote.
Upload photos of the damage and we'll come back to you with an assessment and an estimate — insurance or private.