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Research notes

Good examples.
Clear limits.

What we checked, what the numbers mean and what still needs a conversation with the seller.

Checked 3 November 2026 · 34 source records reviewed

A snapshot, not a live stock feed

We reviewed public listing details and marketplace categories from Turners, Auto Trader NZ, Trade Me Motors, Facebook Marketplace and NZ dealers. Our sample is a practical comparison exercise, not a statistically representative survey of every vehicle in New Zealand. Asking prices are not completed sale prices. Year, kilometres, faults and equipment are seller-reported and have not been independently inspected.

How examples are selected

Each guide takes up to six of the highest advertised fixed prices within its cap from this research set, limiting exact model repeats. The cap applies to the advertised figure, so separately disclosed charges are highlighted. Lower-budget guides also show clearly separated auction examples. We did not invent a vehicle for an empty budget band or assume a seller would accept less.

What we could and could not verify

Facebook’s public Christchurch car listings and the linked Fit advert were read in the browser. The visible Fit description did not give kilometres; this is explicitly marked. Web search snapshots for other sites can be cached, and some category prices differed from individual pages. We excluded confirmed unavailable and damaged examples from the fixed-price shortlists. The Premacy price discrepancy is disclosed alongside that example. No seller was contacted and no availability or mechanical condition was guaranteed.

Photos and permissions

Seller photos remain on their original listing pages. Model illustrations on ARM Cars are separately licensed photographs with credits, not images of the advertised vehicle. Generations, colours, engines and body styles may differ. The animated mechanic is a friendly illustration, not a portrait photograph of Raj.

Next step for a real purchase

Ask for a fresh written total, an odometer photo, condition records and a viewing or independent inspection. Verify who owns and sells the car. Raj can discuss your shortlist and whether he can help; no relationship with these external sellers is implied.

Consumer Protection: pre-purchase inspections and checks · NZTA: buying a vehicle

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