If your car’s been looking a bit worse for wear lately, it might just be time to give it the pampering it deserves with an auto detailing service! Luckily, Christchurch is home to some fantastic spots that are ready to transform your ride into a sparkling masterpiece.

My team and I decided to check out several of these places ourselves, diving into the details to weigh the pros and cons of each so we can share the best options with you.

Curious to know more? Keep reading!

How We Chose The Best Auto Detailing Services in Christchurch

Quality of Work: We checked their work through before-and-after photos and reached out to their former customers to ensure that every part of the vehicle looked immaculate and well cared for.

Range of Services: We detailing providers that offer a comprehensive range of services to meet diverse customer needs

Customer Service: We prioritized providers known for their friendly staff and clear communication, which makes all the difference

Pricing: We selected services that charge a reasonable price for the quality of service they provide.

1. The Detailing Specialists

What sets The Detailing Specialists apart is their lead, Sam Gibbons. He’s been in the detailing game since 2013, co-founding Obsessive Car Detailing and United Car Care, and has the experience to handle any detailing challenge.

We honestly had a hard time booking them for a consultation but once we got through, everything went well after that.

What caught our eye during our visit to their shop was the range of vehicles they work on. It’s not just cars—they were detailing motorcycles, boats, and even campervans. You don’t see that kind of variety in most places.

Some customers we spoke to really love their mobile service. It’s super convenient and makes things easier, especially since scheduling appointments used to be a bit of a hassle for them.

And they don’t slack on the details—they use advanced tech and eco-friendly products to make sure every vehicle gets top-notch care.

Brilliant service and impressive workmanship

“Brilliant service and impressive workmanship from Sam. I love shiny things and boy my car was shining after he had completed a paint correction and a ceramic coat treatment. The inside and out was perfect. Highly recommend using these guys if you’re looking for a top professional detailing job to be done.”

Paul Beswick, Google review

Super happy with the price and his communication

“Sam completed a paint correction on my reasonably original 1998 Legacy GTB, the transformation of the paint and also the headlights and taillights is incredible. Super happy with the price and his communication too.”

Mark Morrison, Google review

2. Cleaner Cars NZ

When one of our researchers gave Cleaner Cars NZ a shot, we were impressed by how seriously they take paint care. After they worked their magic on her car, the micro-scratches and dull paint looked stunning thanks to their specialized ceramic coatings. 

We got to hang out and watch them in action, and you could really see how they focused on all the little details. One of their team members even showed us some cool techniques for paint correction and protection, which was pretty impressive!

They offer a bunch of different packages, too. If your car’s in decent shape, their grooming service starts at just $99. But if your ride needs some serious love, their detailing services start at $199 and will have your car looking brand new again. 

And for anyone with a jam-packed schedule, their mobile detailing service is a total game changer. It covers all of Canterbury.

While we had a great experience with them, one former customer shared that he was less than thrilled with their interior service in the past. 

Each time they’ve done an amazing job

“Oakley and Jack have detailed 5 cars for us over the last year or so after I saw their TikTok videos. Each time they’ve done an amazing job. The mobile service is so handy for us being out in Lincoln – just left the keys out and they did the rest. Highly recommend if you want your car looking as good as new.”

Darryn B., Google review

Fast, professional, reliable

“Fast, professional, reliable – our car looks fantastic and the whole process was exceptionally easy and they came to us! 10/ 10 recommend if you’re looking to have a sparkling clean car for a great price.”

Anya Cockroft, Google review

3. Detail King

Detail King really nails it when it comes to their products. We got to see them in action and they use some seriously impressive stuff—like their snow foam pre-wash and this concentrated magic cleaner that they showed us. 

The staff was super friendly, which made it clear they respect not only the cars they work on but also their owners.

While we were there, we checked out some of the services they offer, and it’s a pretty solid lineup. They do everything from high-speed polishing and waxing to paint protection. There was even a car getting window tinting done, which looked slick!

But not everything was perfect. After our visit, we chatted with a former customer who had a bit of a rough experience. 

He mentioned that when he went to pick up his car on the promised day, it wasn’t ready yet. He had to come back the next day, and even then, he wasn’t satisfied with the work. 

Their professionalism was evident throughout

“I recently had my car detailed, and the service exceeded my expectations in every way. The team demonstrated impressive attention to detail, leaving my car looking pristine inside and out. From meticulously cleaning the interior to expertly restoring the exterior’s shine, their professionalism was evident throughout.”

Jaydip Atodaria, Google review

A pretty slick operation overall

“A pretty slick operation overall. Was able to call a book an appointment for a ceramic coating really easily and they sent a confirmation text. We discussed a PPF wrap but they don’t fold around the edges or remove and wrap under the Tesla badge so skipped on that. The ceramic coating looks lovely and there were no defects.”

Marc Stevenson, Google review

4. CCV Car Grooming

Swinging by CCV Car Grooming was a breeze for us since they’re right by Hagley Park. They’ve got everything you need, from a quick clean to a full detailing package.

What really caught our attention was their specialized services, like paint correction and ceramic paint protection. If you’re looking to make your car shine, this is the way to go! 

They even showed us their ceramic resin technology in action, which not only gives your car a fantastic look but also protects it from the elements for ages. Apparently, it’s a favorite among car enthusiasts who want their rides to look sharp and stand the test of time.

We also thought it was awesome that they offer a free loan car with some services. It means you can keep on with your day while your car is getting all the love it needs—definitely a nice perk!

That said, one customer we chatted with did mention he noticed some swirl marks on his car afterward, which he thought might be due to the lighting in the shop. It’s a small hiccup, but it’s worth keeping in mind. 

My car looks amazing, showroom-ready

“Fantastic!! Terrific job, excellent service, professional, and high quality.  My car looks amazing, showroom ready.  I’m so happy. Highly recommend”

Elena Saltis, Google review

So impressed with this team

“OM Gosh, so impressed with this team.  I had just bought a 2nd hand car and wanted a full interior detail to give me that “new car” feel.  It had been a “family” car and not in great shape.  Nothing was a problem even when I had to change my booking times.  They supplied a loan car for the day which was much appreciated.  They certainly delivered in all respects and the car looked AMAZING inside and out.  Super friendly and very professional. Couldn’t be happier and highly recommend.”

Cathy Dalton, Google review

5. 369 Car Wash & Detailing

369 Car Wash & Detailing has a seriously comprehensive range of services. Apart from the standard car washing and detailing, they also specialize in engine detailing, upholstery shampooing, and leather conditioning. 

When we tried to book an appointment online, it was such a breeze. We also find it convenient that they’re open every day with flexible pickup hours. That’s a huge plus if you’ve got a busy schedule and need something quick yet thorough.

One thing that really impressed us was their service guarantee. They genuinely want to make sure you’re happy with the results, which is super reassuring.

Just a heads-up, though—their prices can be a tad higher than some other spots.

While we were waiting for our car, we got to enjoy some complimentary coffee. It’s such a nice little perk that makes the whole experience feel more special compared to places that skip out on those kinds of amenities.

And we can’t forget to mention the staff! They’re super knowledgeable and really know their stuff when it comes to different vehicles and detailing techniques. 

Excellent service with polite and friendly people

“Excellent service. I did a walk-in with a fleet car today and needed an exterior and interior clean along with dog hair removal. Outstanding work for what I consider a last-minute approach on my end. Polite and friendly people. Thank you.”

Maria Flores, Google review

I am very happy with the results and will be back

“Fantastic service and brilliant shiny car. We discussed the clean before starting, and the knowledgeable team advised me on what would give my car the best results. I am very happy with the results and will be back.”

Kirsten Baker, Google review