Rust is usually associated with old cars, but in New Zealand’s humid, coastal conditions it can start on a new vehicle before its first service. Overnight condensation and salt-laden air are enough to begin the process on stock sitting in a dealership yard, and vehicles that tow boats or jet skis can show visible corrosion within months of purchase. David Kirkham, director of Autoblast, sees the pattern often enough that more dealerships now treat new inventory before it goes out the door.
Importers face the same exposure earlier still. Vehicles shipped by sea arrive having sat in salt air and marine conditions, and early surface oxidation follows quickly if nothing is done. Most panel shops concentrate on exterior refinishing; Autoblast fills the gap with underbody protection that slots into pre-delivery workflows, plus a new-vehicle rust-correction service that deals with early discolouration or surface rust before a car reaches the showroom floor.
The AutoLAST system
Autoblast’s core product is the AutoLAST System, a structured rust-prevention process built on thorough surface preparation followed by a five-part coating system. It is designed to outlast conventional oil- or wax-based underbody treatments and to leave a cleaner finish. Cavity waxing extends the protection inside accessible chassis rails.
The work is done at an expanded Auckland facility with five dedicated service bays, two downdraught spray booths, and heavy-duty hoists — a controlled environment suited to high-volume commercial work. Commercial fleets, including port companies running vehicles in corrosive conditions, make up a significant part of the client base alongside private owners and dealers.
Blasting and galvanising
At the other end of a vehicle’s life, Autoblast has more than 22 years of restoration blasting behind it. Shells are stripped to bare white metal by abrasive blasting — low pressure, acute angles, and constant surface movement keep delicate panels from warping — then dusted with an industrial-scale duster before coating, because oxidation starts the moment blasting finishes.
Optionally, the shell or underbody are arc-sprayed with a 50/50 zinc-aluminium coating that effectively galvanises the steel and gives the first coat of paint something to soak into. Autoblast specifies 2K epoxy primer systems to suit the owner’s paint plan and how long the shell will sit before bodywork, and offers a free appraisal on any job.
For more information, contact Autoblast on 09 443 6574 or visit autoblast.co.nz
