Is there anyone on the Coast who does this?
Sometimes the honest answer is that the nearest is in Christchurch or Nelson, and the quote should say so with travel in it. NovaPay asks locally first and tells you when it has had to look further rather than quietly widening the search.
Do I have to use the repairer my insurer picks?
Often not. Many New Zealand policies let you choose, though using a preferred repairer can simplify the claim. Ask your insurer, and say in your request that it is an insurance job.
Will the paint match?
A good shop matches to the paint code and blends into adjacent panels, which is why a repair on a metallic finish sometimes covers more panels than the damage does. Ask how they plan to blend it.
What is paintless dent removal?
Working a dent out from behind without refinishing, which is cheaper and quicker where the paint is unbroken. It suits door dings and hail rather than creased or cracked panels.
How long will they have the car?
A small dent may be a day, a collision repair a week or more once parts are ordered. Ask whether a courtesy car is available, since that often matters more than a small price difference.