Surface rust treat and touch up (stone chips, small bubble): how much does it cost?

Q: How much does surface rust treat and touch up (stone chips, small bubble) cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$180–NZ$540 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$200–A$580 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Typically NZ$180–NZ$540 in New Zealand and A$200–A$580 in Australia, including GST. Most cars.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$30–NZ$90	1–3 h	—	NZ$180–NZ$540
Australia	A$30–A$85	1–3 h	—	A$200–A$580

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

Grind back, rust converter, prime and touch up or spot blend. No welding. Larger bubbles under paint usually mean a panel respray.

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.