Buying an Auto

I am planning to purchase an auto upon my arrival in NZ and have done some research but would like any insights you might have to share on NZ auto purchases.

For instance, I've come across the name Turner Auctions as a potential source to buy a vehicle.......has anyone dealt with this company? What was your experience in dealing with them? Advice?
Are there other NZ on-line sites where people post "for sale" notices? I've been looking for sites similar to "www.carssales.com.au" in Australia.

Auto Insurance:
What does it cost for someone over 25? What companies provide the best rates?
I found that BBH (Budget Backpacker Hostels) offers insurance coverage......has anyone purchased auto insurance from BBH? What was your experience?
Can one buy insurance for 3or 4 months or does one have to purchase a year's coverage then apply for a rebate after selling of the auto?

Auto Registration:
What I've learned is that will run around $350.......Is this an accurate figure?
Would this be a 12 month registration?

This question was asked and answered within the last hour here. Turners are another option, they have onsite car inspection services and can offer some real bargains - luck of the draw in terms of what might show up on a particular day. Their site includes catalogues of what they are selling. I'd imagine you won't want to spend a fortune, so look out for their bargain auctions.

Registration is more like a couple of hundred for a year.

Bought my car from Turners, plus husband bought his work van there. pay a deposit at end of auction, balance by close of business the same day. 12 month rego a bit more than a couple of hundred!!<BR><BR><a target=new class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="http://www.ltsa.govt.nz/vehicle-ownership/registration.html">Vehicle registration costs</a>

Bloody hell! When did that happen?

Ah - the registration fees you refer to are the one off charge when you first put the vehicle on the road. The annual cost is here and a little bit under $200 for a year.

Thank God I got it wrong!!! Reminds me that mine is overdue.

Where are you arriving in NZ? In Auckland there are a few (backpacker) car markets (listed in LP I think) which was where we got our car ($600 and a total steal). Insurance wise I found AMI gave me the best quotes.

I got my car at the City car market opposite the microsoft building, near the fish market.
nice station wagon, all good, for 2200 bucks. thats a lot compared to that 600 dollar car, but still good bargain, since its a '97 and in very good condition.

Anyway, the best insurance quote i got from NAC, 180 a year with 500 excess.
most other banks and companies were way above 300 a year, with excess over 1000. (additional 700 dollar excess for international lisences).

rego easy to do at post offices and stuff.

good luck!