Car Insurance in Auckland

14 November 2024

Car insurance in Auckland can feel like a bit of a maze, right? With the city’s busy streets, traffic jams, and even the odd fender bender, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. But don’t worry! Let’s chat about what you need to know to find affordable car insurance in Auckland without breaking the bank.

Why is car insurance different in Auckland?

Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city, and that means more cars, more traffic, and, unfortunately, a higher chance of accidents and theft. If you’re driving around Auckland, here’s why car insurance might look a bit different here than in other places:

Higher traffic density: Higher traffic density: With so many cars on the road—especially during rush hour—the chances of minor accidents go up. Curious about what’s covered in these situations? Here’s what car insurance covers.
Theft rates: Auckland sees more car thefts than smaller towns. So, if you’re parking on the street—especially overnight—this could bump up your premium. Want to know more about how urban factors impact car insurance? Read on here.
Urban living: Limited parking options mean more cars left in less secure spots, which can lead to dings, dents, and damage. Insurers factor this urban reality into your Auckland car insurance rate.

In light of the above, let's talk numbers. As of Q3 2024, the average cost of car insurance in Auckland is $1,579 per year, or about $132 a month. That's a fair bit higher than the national average of $1,346 yearly.

What affects your car insurance premium in Auckland?

Several Auckland-specific factors play a role in what you’ll pay for car insurance in Auckland. Here’s what insurers typically look at:

Where you live in Auckland: Living in certain areas, like the city centre or places with higher theft rates, can push up your premium, while quieter suburbs can sometimes mean a lower cost. For a closer look, read our blog on comparing insurance costs for popular cars in New Zealand.
Parking situation: If you’ve got secure garage parking, your insurer might give you a break on your premium. Street parking, especially in high-traffic areas, can make your rates go up.
Car type and age: Newer, high-value cars or models with higher theft rates generally cost more to insure. Auckland’s urban setting means insurers see certain cars as a bigger risk. If you’re considering a Toyota Aqua, here’s what you need to know about insuring it.
Your driving record: A clean driving history can score you lower premiums, while a history of claims or accidents can do the opposite. For more tips, explore the key factors in choosing the best car insurance.

Want to know why car insurance premiums are climbing? Our blog Why Car Insurance Is So Expensive has the details.

Real-life examples: comparing car insurance costs in Auckland

To give you an idea of what car insurance in Auckland might cost, here’s two different examples:

Toyota Landcruiser Prado, sum insured of $15,000, excess of $500, 35 year old male

Policy type	Lowest cost $	Average cost $	Highest cost $
Comprehensive	$975	$1,114	$1,256
Third party	$247	$265	$279
Third party, fire and theft	$504	$584	$753

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, sum insured of $40,000, excess of $500, 35 year old male.

Policy type	Lowest cost $	Average cost $	Highest cost $
Comprehensive	$1,752	$2,075	$2,380
Third party	$175	$248	$303
Third party, fire and theft	$826	$980	$1,027

Source: Quashed

Tips for finding affordable car insurance in Auckland

Looking to save on Auckland car insurance? Here are a few ways to keep costs down:

Shop around and compare quotes: You might be surprised by how much you can save just by checking quotes from different insurers—sometimes, it’s hundreds! Want to know the difference between the cheapest and best car insurance in NZ? Here’s what to look out for.
Increase your excess to lower your premiums, but make sure you can afford the higher excess if you need to claim.
Consider excluding young drivers from your policy if they don't regularly use the car, as drivers under 25 significantly increase premiums

Want to save on car insurance? Check out our blog Smart Ways To Slash Your Car Insurance.

Ready to find the right car insurance?

By comparing quotes and knowing what factors influence your premium, you can find a policy that fits your needs and budget. If you're ready to take the next step, consider using Quashed for an easy way to compare car insurance quotes tailored for Auckland drivers. Sign up with Quashed today and drive with peace of mind!