The short answer
Most scrap cars in New Zealand fetch between $200 and $900, while complete vehicles with good parts, late-model utes, 4WDs and vans can reach $1,000 to $2,500 or more. The exact figure depends on weight, completeness, and demand for parts.
What wreckers actually pay for
A buyer prices your car on four things:
- Weight and scrap metal price — a heavier vehicle contains more steel, and scrap steel prices move month to month.
- Reusable parts — engines, gearboxes, catalytic converters, alloy wheels, headlights and panels from popular models (Toyota, Mazda, Ford Rangers, Hilux) are worth real money.
- Completeness — a car with its battery, catalytic converter, wheels and engine intact is worth noticeably more than a stripped shell.
- Location and access — free pickup is standard across Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and most of the North and South Island, but remote locations can affect the offer.
Ballpark figures by vehicle type
- Small hatchback (e.g. Suzuki Swift, Toyota Vitz): $200–$600
- Mid-size sedan (Corolla, Mazda 3): $300–$800
- SUV / station wagon: $400–$1,000
- Ute or 4WD (Hilux, Ranger, Navara): $600–$2,500
- Van (Hiace, Transit): $500–$2,000
How to get the best price
Be honest about the condition, include photos, and never remove parts before the sale — a missing catalytic converter alone can cut an offer by hundreds of dollars. Get a free quote to find out exactly what your car is worth today.