Full Panel Beaters Christchurch Guide to Car Repaints with AutoStar

Your car’s paint can lose its sparkle over time. Perhaps it’s starting to dull in the sun, it might have a few scratches, or perhaps you’ve had a bump that has left the paintwork looking a little worse for wear. Whatever your reason, a professional car repaint can provide a second life for your vehicle, making it appear more modern, protecting it from the elements, and, in some cases, increasing its value.

For All Your Autobody & Restoration Requirements

At Rosiez Collision Repairs, we have been serving Christchurch motorists since 2007 – with services ranging from collision repairs through to full restorations. We’ve repainted small hatchbacks, large family SUVs, classics, work vans—so whatever you drive, we’ve likely worked on something similar in the past.

If you’re considering a repaint and aren’t sure how it works, this guide has the details about how to repaint a car, what it costs, and what will likely happen along the way.

When a Full Repaint Might Be a Good Idea

A Respray Isn’t Just For Style – It’s Also For Function

A respray doesn’t come down to just slapping on a different color and making your car look flash – it’s about making your car live a second life. Here’s why a lot of our Christchurch clients choose to take the plunge:

• Restore the Shine – Faded, flat paint can make a good-looking car feel old.
• Defend Your Panels – New paint (with a good clear coat) guards against rust, damaging UV, and everyday wear.
• Higher Resale Value – A clean car is an easy car to sell, and it often fetches a higher price.
• Change It Up – Sometimes you just need a new colour to match your style.

We’ve had customers come to us prepared to sell their car … and then not sell it after all because they loved how it looked after a respray.

Our Process for Full Car Repainting at Rosiez

We’ve been rolling panels and spraying paint for as long as we can remember, and as many moons have come and gone, we’ve witnessed a decent paint job or two in our time. Here’s our process:

1. Inspect the Car – We inspect the paint’s condition closely, assess any scratches, and discuss the colours/finishes you like.
2. Panel Beating and Prep – Any bumps, dents, scratches, or rust are repaired before getting the surface smooth.
3. Sanding and Priming — This is what the new paint is going to grip onto.
4. Spray Painting – We spray on thin, light coats with top-end equipment to achieve an even and stunning colour.
5. Clear Coat – It gives that glossy shine and helps protect the paint.
6. A Thorough Polish and Inspection – We polish every nook and cranny before returning the keys.

Why We Get Repaint Customers

We see all sorts of reasons:

• Accident Damage – Typically includes repairs that have resulted from an insurance claim following a crash.
• Sun Damage – Canterbury sun is tough, and it shows on older paint.
• Rust Repairs – Once we repair rust, repainting will seal and protect the panel.
• Restoring the Classics – Restoring cars to their former glory days.
• Work Vehicles — Keep vans and utes looking professional with a fresh coat of paint.

Let’s Talk Costs

One of the first things people want to know is, “How much is this going to cost me?” The truth is—it depends.

What is the cost for painting an entire car?

A high-quality, professional full repaint typically costs anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 based on square footage, condition, and paint finish.

What is the cost of a full car respray?

All quotes can be unique based on the preparation required for the respray. Your typical repaint costs $7,000–$10,000. We offer exceptional value for your dollar—do it right the first time.

How much does a car respray cost in NZ?

NZ-wide, you’re in the same ballpark—$4,000 to $10,000+—but Christchurch is usually more competitive than larger cities.

What Can Bump Up the Cost?

• Your vehicle’s size (a van is more expensive than a hatchback)
• How much (if any) panel beating is needed before painting
• If you’re switching to a completely different colour
• Custom finishes such as metallics, pearls, even matte

Insurance & Repaints

We’ve even got you covered for a repaint after an accident. We’re partnered with all major insurers, so we can:

• Process the claim paperwork for you
• Speak with your insurance company
• Lend you a car, ute, or van so you’re not without wheels

Custom Colours & Finishes

Some keep their original colour, while others go bold with something entirely different. We can:

• Match your factory paint exactly
• Mix up a one-of-a-kind shade
• Provide matte, gloss, pearl, or metallic finishes

One of our favourite recent jobs was a faded silver hatchback that we transformed into a deep, glossy blue — it was like a brand-new car.

How Long Will It Take?

Most full repaints take around 1–2 weeks. That depends on:

• The extent of damage
• The type of finish you choose
• How much business the shop has at the time

We’ll always provide you with a realistic time frame before work begins, and we’ll give you status reports as we go.

Why Christchurch Drivers Trust Rosiez

We are more than a panel beater— we are passionate people who care about the work we do.

• Three convenient branches – Sydenham, Sockburn, Rolleston
• Professional team – Experienced with new and old cars
• Approved brands – Accredited repairers for Volkswagen, Skoda, SEAT, Tesla, BYD
• Comprehensive services – From panel beating through to spray painting and full collision repair

Ready to Refresh Your Car’s Look?

If the paint on your car is looking a little worse for wear or is damaged, a fresh paint job can make you feel different altogether. If it’s part of a restoration, a collision repair, or just a well-deserved upgrade, we’re here to make sure it gets done right.