What if nobody in Gisborne does this?
Then the honest answer is that it comes from out of the region, and the quote should say so with the travel in it. NovaPay asks locally first and widens rather than pretending the choice is bigger than it is.
How much is a WOF in New Zealand?
The inspection itself is capped by law and is modest. What varies is the repairs needed to pass, which is the number worth getting quoted rather than the inspection.
My car failed its WOF. Do I have to fix it there?
No. You can take it anywhere, and a failure sheet is a specific list, which makes it one of the easiest jobs to get comparable quotes on. Say what the sheet lists in your request.
Can I get a mobile mechanic to come to me?
For servicing, brakes and diagnostics, often yes. Anything needing a hoist usually cannot be done at the kerb. Ask for mobile in the request and only those mechanics are asked.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection?
On any used car you have not owned, yes. It costs a fraction of one unexpected repair, and the report gives you something concrete to negotiate with.