How much does a panel beater cost in New Zealand? (2026 prices)
RS Lane Panel & Paint gives approximate examples of $100–$300 for scratch repair, $200–$500 for small dents and scratches, $500–$1,000 for moderate damage such as a bumper, $1,000–$3,000 for severe damage such as panel replacement, and $2,000–$5,000 for a complete respray. The article does not state GST or define vehicle and paint scope; request a written quote.
Panel beater prices at a glance
| Job or rate | Typical price (NZD) | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scratch repair | $100–$300 | per job | [1] |
| Small dents and scratches | $200–$500 | per job | [1] |
| Moderate damage, such as a bumper repair | $500–$1,000 | per job | [1] |
| Severe damage, such as panel replacement | $1,000–$3,000 | per job | [1] |
| Complete respray | $2,000–$5,000 | per car | [1] |
GST: where a source says a price excludes GST we show "+ GST". Add 15% to compare it with a GST-inclusive quote. Prices marked without a GST note were not labelled by the source.
What changes the price
- Paint colour matching, especially for metallic and pearl paints, adds time and cost.
- New genuine parts cost more than aftermarket or second-hand parts. Ask which the quote uses.
- Bumpers on newer cars often carry parking sensors or driver assistance cameras that may need recalibrating after a repair.
- Compare the quote with your insurance excess before deciding whether to claim.
Getting a fair quote
- Get a written quote that lists parts, labour and paint, and whether parts are new genuine, aftermarket or second-hand.
- For an insurance claim, check your policy: some insurers let you choose the repairer, others use an approved list.
- Compare the repair cost with your excess. For small jobs it can be cheaper to pay yourself.
- Ask about the warranty on paint and workmanship, and how long they will need the car.
Where these prices come from
We do not invent price ranges. Every figure in the table comes from a price guide published by a New Zealand business, directory or government agency, linked below, and is shown as that source published it. These are typical ranges, not quotes. Your price will depend on your job, your location and the business, so get at least two written quotes.