Looking for Used Car (Stationwagon/MPV)?

Question

Hi, will be visiting NZ starting from Auckland beginning Dec. Looking to buy a good condition used stationwagon or MPV to drive round the country. My budget is around NZ$1.5k. Any recommendtions ? Thanks.

Answer 1

The expectation of the price you want to pay is a bit (well, more than a bit) on the low side.

Try about $5000.00 and try trademe.

Answer 2

I think $1500 would do it - as long as you are not too choosey. If that is your total budget, aim to keep something in reserve for a repair. If it blows, be prepared to dump it and pick up a rental or another cheapie. Best to know how to check out a used car - talk to a friend or get a mechanic to check it first. Trademe, a car fair or auction is your best bet Check the VIR on a private sale.

Look for a current registration and a warrant of fitness good for your whole trip. Stick to Japanese and popular models as they are easy to get wrecker parts and cheaper repairs. Get third party insurance as well!

Old cars are hard to get rid of - give some time to flick it at the end. The more you paid, the harder it will be and the more  your potential less will be at  'just leaving for the airport'  price. Hostels can be a good place to pick them up cheap!

Answer 3

You could very likely pick up a suitable MPV/SW at any of the many second hand vehicle dealers, but your budget of only $NZ1500 may be a bit low as the average price I've een here is about $NZ2000.