How much does rust repair, tailgate or boot lid lower edge cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$640–NZ$1,740 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$690–A$1,860 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Rust repair, tailgate or boot lid lower edge: how much does it cost?

Typically NZ$640–NZ$1,740 in New Zealand and A$690–A$1,860 in Australia, including GST. Most cars.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$60–NZ$250	4–10 h	—	NZ$640–NZ$1,740
Australia	A$55–A$230	4–10 h	—	A$690–A$1,860

Totals use a standard workshop rate of NZ$120 or A$140 an hour and a 25% parts markup, plus GST. Your workshop's rate and parts prices will differ.

What affects the price

Rust under garnish trims and seals; trims, lights and camera off. Heavy rot on the inner frame often makes a used tailgate cheaper.

Other body, paint, glass and interior repairs

Bumper scuff or corner scrape repair and resprayNZ$430–NZ$840
Bumper scuff repair and respray (European, parking sensors)NZ$610–NZ$1,140
Bumper cover replace and paint (car, aftermarket cover)NZ$980–NZ$1,830
Bumper replace and paint (SUV / ute)NZ$1,270–NZ$2,550
Bumper replace and paint (European, sensors or radar)NZ$2,270–NZ$5,340
Panel respray, door or front guard (incl. blend)NZ$530–NZ$1,090
Panel respray, bonnet or roofNZ$720–NZ$1,460
Panel respray (European or 3-coat pearl colour)NZ$910–NZ$1,750
Clear coat peel respray, bonnetNZ$880–NZ$1,620
Clear coat peel respray, roofNZ$1,030–NZ$1,780

Researched by Credov in October 2026 from NZ and Australian parts suppliers and workshop price guides. Typical ranges, not quotes: ask a workshop for a quote before you rely on a price. All repair costs.