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Evidence · Car insurance

Every question, every answer, every source

Explore all 183 car-insurance questions and the 728 answers saved on 11 October 2026. Read the original responses and download the tables behind the study’s comparisons, sources, sentiment and factual checks.

questions
183
answers saved, of 732 planned
728
consumer situations
12
named regions
16
AI platforms
4

01

Every question, with its answers

Each question went to the four AI platforms. All were collected with a New Zealand setting. Open a question to read every captured answer in full.

Showing 20 of 183 questions

Show all 183

02

The tables behind the study

Every figure on the study page comes from these tables. They are CSV files, which open in any spreadsheet.

  • Questions

    questions.csv

    One row per question, with its exact saved wording.

    Question ID, source references, question, consumer situation, named regions, question group and collection setting

    183rows

    Download questions (CSV)

  • Answers

    answers.csv

    One row per captured answer, with its full text.

    Answer ID, question ID, platform, collection setting, consumer situation, named regions and full answer

    728rows

    Download answers (CSV)

  • Sources by answer

    sources.csv

    One row per website recorded as a source of an answer.

    Answer ID, question ID, assistant, collection setting, website and publisher type

    4,213rows

    Download sources by answer (CSV)

  • Checks against primary sources

    checks.csv

    One row per stated assertion checked, for one platform.

    Check, question and answer IDs, assistant, exact passage, verdict, primary-source finding, URL and date

    96rows

    Download checks against primary sources (CSV)

  • Consumer recommendation coding

    consumer-recommendation-coding.csv

    One row per reviewed provider role in a consumer-selection answer.

    Answer ID, question ID, consumer, platform, provider, role, counted recommendation, exact passage and conditions

    301rows

    Download consumer recommendation coding (CSV)

  • Consumer selection membership

    consumer-selection-membership.csv

    One row per answer in the matched consumer-selection comparison.

    Answer ID, question ID, consumer, platform, question group and full text; the same twelve questions per platform

    48rows

    Download consumer selection membership (CSV)

  • Ongoing support coding

    support-coding.csv

    One row per reviewed named-provider role in an eligible support answer.

    Answer ID, question ID, consumer, platform, provider, role, support-preference decision and exact passage

    49rows

    Download ongoing support coding (CSV)

  • Ongoing support membership

    support-membership.csv

    One row per answer in the actual consumer-support group.

    Answer ID, question ID, consumer, platform, question group and full text; acquisition validation is excluded

    32rows

    Download ongoing support membership (CSV)

  • Regional recommendation coding

    regional-recommendation-coding.csv

    One row per reviewed provider role in a region-named selection answer.

    Answer ID, question ID, named consumer region, platform, provider, recommendation decision and exact passage

    440rows

    Download regional recommendation coding (CSV)

  • Regional selection membership

    regional-selection-membership.csv

    One row per answer in the matched regional comparison.

    Answer ID, question ID, named consumer region, platform and equal-comparison membership; sixteen questions per platform

    64rows

    Download regional selection membership (CSV)

  • Insurer sentiment

    insurer-sentiment.csv

    One row per unique saved claim about an insurer in a selection answer.

    Claim, question and answer IDs, insurer, saved stance, exact passage and original-answer offsets

    1,926rows

    Download insurer sentiment (CSV)

  • Recorded source URLs

    source-urls.csv

    One row per recorded answer, website and URL association.

    Answer ID, question ID, platform, website, URL, source records and presence in the captured answer text

    6,056rows

    Download recorded source urls (CSV)

Use these tables to trace findings back to the original questions and answers. The full text of each answer is also on this page, under its question.

03

Read in full and checked

Some answers were read in detail or checked against official sources. Those appear on the study page, beside the findings they support.

ChatGPT · New Zealand

I live in Manawatū–Whanganui and need car insurance. Which companies are worth comparing?

Car insurance companies worth comparing in Manawatū–Whanganui

If you live in Manawatū–Whanganui, New Zealand, I'd recommend comparing at least four or five insurers before choosing a policy. The cheapest premium isn't always the best deal: excess amounts, cover for accidental damage, windscreen protection and the conditions for repairs can make a real difference.

Your options include large national insurers, insurers associated with banks, and online providers. Most can quote for eligible drivers across New Zealand, although your premium will depend on your address, vehicle, driving history and how you use your car.

Which insurers should you compare?

Insurer Why it's worth comparing Website
AA Insurance A good starting point for comparing comprehensive and third-party cover. Worth checking if you're an AA member. Get a quote
AMI An established insurer offering several levels of car insurance. Worth comparing against AA and Tower. Get a quote
State Another established option with comprehensive and lower-cost cover. Compare its actual quote with AMI rather than assuming they'll cost the same. Get a quote
Tower Offers different levels of car insurance and is worth including in your price comparison. Get a quote
Cove An online-focused insurer worth checking if you'd prefer to arrange your insurance digitally. Get a quote
FMG Particularly worth investigating if you live rurally, drive on rural roads or have farming connections. FMG has also received strong customer satisfaction recognition from Consumer NZ. Get a quote
MAS Worth considering for eligible customers who value customer service. MAS has received Consumer NZ's People's Choice recognition for insurance. Explore cover
Trade Me Insurance Another option to include when comparing premiums and policy benefits. Get a quote
AMP Offers another comprehensive insurance option to compare with the larger direct insurers. Explore insurance

These are a shortlist of providers to investigate, not a definitive ranking. Consumer NZ recommends getting quotes from at least three insurers because prices vary according to the driver, vehicle and location. Its customer satisfaction research is also worth consulting when deciding which providers to shortlist. Sources: Consumer NZ and Canstar NZ.

My recommended shortlist

If I were comparing car insurance in Manawatū–Whanganui, I'd start with these five:

  1. AMI — a useful benchmark from an established insurer.
  2. AA Insurance — another major provider to compare against.
  3. Tower — to see whether its premium and cover offer better value.
  4. Cove — to check whether an online-focused insurer offers a competitive price.
  5. FMG — particularly relevant if you live in a rural area or regularly drive rural roads.

I'd then add MAS if you're eligible and want another provider with a strong customer satisfaction reputation.

You can also use Canstar's car insurance comparison tool to compare policy features across multiple providers. Keep in mind that comparison sites may not cover the entire market.

What type of car insurance should you get?

There are three main options in New Zealand.

Type of cover What it generally covers Best suited to
Comprehensive Accidental damage to your own car and damage you cause to other people's vehicles or property, subject to the policy terms. Drivers who want the broadest protection.
Third party, fire and theft Damage you cause to other people's property, plus fire or theft involving your own car. Drivers with an older car who still want protection against theft and fire.
Third party only Damage you cause to other people's vehicles or property. It generally doesn't cover damage to your own car. Drivers who want basic protection and can afford to repair or replace their own vehicle.

The cheapest policy isn't necessarily the best value. If you depend on your car for work or live somewhere with limited transport alternatives, comprehensive cover may be worth the extra cost.

You can read the New Zealand Government's explanation of car insurance and the different types of cover.

What should you compare before choosing?

When you request quotes, compare the following:

  • Annual premium: Compare the total yearly cost, including any fees for paying monthly.
  • Excess: How much you'll have to pay towards a claim. Check whether additional excesses apply to younger or inexperienced drivers.
  • Agreed value versus market value: An agreed value is set with the insurer, while market value is based on what the vehicle was worth immediately before the loss.
  • Windscreen cover: Check whether windscreen claims have an excess and whether cover is included or optional.
  • Replacement vehicle: Find out whether you receive a temporary vehicle if yours is stolen or being repaired.
  • Repair arrangements: Check how repairs are approved and whether you can choose your repairer.
  • Weather-related damage: Check the policy terms for damage from flooding, storms and other weather events.

These details can vary considerably between policies, even when the premiums are similar.

Let me narrow this down for you

I can help you identify which insurers are most worth quoting for your circumstances, rather than making you work through every company.

What car do you drive, including its year and model?

For example, 2016 Toyota Corolla.

With that information, I can help narrow the shortlist. Your approximate age and whether you want comprehensive or third-party cover would also help when comparing your options.

Ask anything

ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.

Captured 11 October 2026

Gemini · New Zealand

I live in Manawatū–Whanganui and need car insurance. Which companies are worth comparing?

When looking for car insurance in New Zealand—including regional areas like Manawatū–Whanganui—car insurance is typically priced based on your specific vehicle, your age, your driving history, and your precise address (taking into account local risk factors like weather events, rural vs. urban driving, and local theft rates).

Because pricing varies heavily from person to person, comparing multiple companies is the best way to secure a good deal. The key providers worth comparing include:

1. Major Direct Insurers (Broad Coverage & Household Names)

  • AA Insurance: Consistently ranks high for customer satisfaction and claims handling in New Zealand. They offer robust comprehensive policies, lifetime repair guarantees on authorized repairs, and have strong brand recognition.
  • Tower Insurance: Often scores very well for comprehensive policy benefits (such as standard excess-free key/lock replacement) and was an early adopter of granular, risk-based pricing (factoring in specific geographic hazards like flood mapping).
  • AMI & State: Two of New Zealand's largest direct insurers (both underwritten by IAG New Zealand). They are widely compared side-by-side by Kiwis for standard comprehensive, third-party fire and theft, and third-party-only tiers. State was also named Canstar’s Car Insurer of the Year.

2. Digital-First and Value Alternatives

  • Cove: A popular digital-first challenger brand that operates entirely online. They focus heavily on streamlined, competitive comprehensive policies and user-friendly online management. (Note: They generally focus on comprehensive cover and have specific age restrictions, such as excluding drivers under 21).
  • Mighty Ape Insurance: A newer player in the NZ market offering competitive comprehensive policies, often bundled with introductory promotions (like a free first month up to a cap).

3. Regional and Specialist Options

  • FMG (Farmers Mutual Group): Highly relevant if you live in a rural or lifestyle-block part of the Manawatū–Whanganui region. FMG specializes in rural communities and understands regional property and vehicle needs, though policies are often arranged via agents or local offices.
  • MAS (Medical Assurance Society): If you work in health, scientific, or professional sectors, MAS is a member-owned mutual insurer that consistently ranks exceptionally high for customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Tips for Comparing in Manawatū–Whanganui:

  1. Check Rural vs. Town Rating: If you live rurally (e.g., out towards the Tararua district or up past Ruapehu/Rangitikei) versus living in Palmerston North or Whanganui city, your risk profile will change. Ensure your insurer has your correct address to avoid issues at claim time.
  2. Agreed Value vs. Market Value: Decide whether you want an agreed value (locked-in payout if written off) or market value (what the car is worth at the time of the loss).
  3. Get 3 Quotes: Because insurers calculate risk differently, getting online quotes from at least a mix of an established player (like AA or Tower) and a digital or regional option (like Cove or FMG) will give you a clear baseline of the best price-to-coverage ratio for your specific situation.
Ask Gemini

Gemini is AI and can make mistakes.

Captured 11 October 2026

AI Overviews · New Zealand

I live in Manawatū–Whanganui and need car insurance. Which companies are worth comparing?

AI Overview

For drivers in the Manawatū–Whanganui region, the best car insurance strategy involves comparing a mix of major national direct insurers, highly-rated mutual brands, and local independent insurance brokers. The average comprehensive car insurance premium in New Zealand sits around $1,311 per year ($109 per month), but regional rates outside major cities like Auckland are generally 20% to 35% lower.

The top companies and services worth your time are grouped below by their unique market advantages:

Major Direct Insurers (Best for Fast Online Quotes)

  • AA Insurance: Frequently wins consumer awards for claims satisfaction. They offer a lifetime repair guarantee if you use an authorized repairer and include a New Zealand-based personal claims manager.

  • Tower Insurance: Known for flexible digital customization. They offer features like an excess-free key replacement (up to $1,000) and zero excess for garage thefts. Note: Tower removed multi-policy discounts in 2026.

  • Cove: A highly digital, online-only provider. They regularly score as the cheapest option for standard car models in consumer studies and frequently offer promos like a "one month free" sign-up bonus.

  • State & AMI: Both are major brands underwritten by IAG. AMI includes built-in roadside rescue on many comprehensive policies, while State features unique perks like a $10,000 careless driving defense cover.

Top Consumer-Rated Mutuals (Best for Customer Support)

If you prioritize customer service over rock-bottom prices, these member-owned mutuals consistently score the highest overall satisfaction (around 79%–81%) in Consumer NZ surveys:

  • FMG (Farmers Mutual Group): While historically rural-focused, they offer exceptional domestic vehicle coverage for anyone living in regional areas like Manawatū.

  • MAS (Medical Assurance Society): Primarily targets professionals, but highly competitive if you qualify for membership.

Local Manawatū–Whanganui Insurance Brokers

If you have a complex situation (like a modified car, classic vehicle, or business use) or simply prefer personal, face-to-face service, local brokers can shop the market across multiple underwriters to find you a deal.

Provider / Broker Location Contact / Website
Wanganui Insurance Brokers Whanganui wanganuiinsurance.co.nz
Manawatū Insurance (AMP) Palmerston North manawatuinsurance.co.nz
Gallagher Insurance Whanganui & Palmerston North Corporate Broker Network
Gerrards Insurance Brokers Dannevirke Regional Specialist

Ways to Lower Your Premium

  1. Agreed vs. Market Value: Opt for Agreed Value if you want certainty on a payout amount, or Market Value if you want a slightly lower monthly premium.

  2. Adjust the Excess: Raising your standard excess contribution (e.g., from $300 to $500 or $1,000) will directly decrease your regular premium costs.

  3. Check Comparison Tools: Before locking anything in, run your details through tools like the Quashed Market Scan or the Glimp Car Insurance Directory to check for real-time regional discounts.

To help narrow down the best choice, what make and model of car are you looking to insure, and are there any drivers under 25 who will be using the vehicle?

Ask anything

Captured 11 October 2026

Google AI Mode · New Zealand

I live in Manawatū–Whanganui and need car insurance. Which companies are worth comparing?

When looking for car insurance in New Zealand, comparing everyday direct insurers and digital options gives you a strong baseline for comprehensive, third-party fire and theft, or third-party cover.

The main providers worth comparing include:

  • AA Insurance — Frequently rated high for customer service and claims satisfaction in independent consumer surveys (like Canstar).

  • AMI — A nationwide provider with comprehensive options and regular sign-up promotions.

  • State — Widely comparable to AMI, offering flexible policy adjustments and similar promotional incentives.

  • Tower — Known for flexible online policy management and frequent digital-discount promo codes.

  • Cove — A fast-growing digital-first insurer known for an entirely online claims and policy management process.

  • Protecta — A specialized or alternative everyday option well-known for enthusiast or standard vehicle configurations.

Tips for Comparing

  • Market vs. Agreed Value: Check how each insurer values your vehicle—agreed value locks in a set payout, while market value depends on current retail worth at the time of a claim. [Consumer NZ]

  • Excess Adjustments: Adjusting your voluntary excess up or down changes your premium; see how different excesses shift the quotes across providers. [Consumer NZ]

  • Check the Fine Print: Look closely at standard excesses for drivers under 25 or specific higher-theft vehicle models if applicable to your household. [Consumer NZ]

If you share your vehicle make/model , age/driving history , or the type of cover you want (Comprehensive vs. Third Party), I can help narrow down which of these providers typically suit those details best.

Ask anything

Captured 11 October 2026