Common grounds to challenge
Unclear or missing signage
Towing is only lawful where restrictions are clearly marked. An obscured, missing, or confusing sign at the location is a strong basis for disputing the tow.
Towed from the wrong location
If your vehicle was removed from a spot where no valid restriction applied, the tow and all associated fees can be challenged.
Procedural errors by the authority
Incorrect paperwork, failure to follow required notice or process steps, or administrative errors by the council or tow operator can invalidate the charges.
Damage caused during the tow
Scratches, mechanical damage, or other harm done to your vehicle during towing or storage can be included in a separate damage claim.
How Refund handles your tow and impound challenge
Describe where you were parked
Tell Refund exactly where your vehicle was, what the signage at the location said (or didn’t say), and when the tow happened.
Upload the impound paperwork
Provide the towing and storage paperwork, including the breakdown of charges. Upload photos of the parking spot or any visible damage to the vehicle.
Review the dispute letter
Refund identifies the strongest grounds to challenge the fees and, if applicable, quantifies a damage claim. It drafts a formal letter for you to read and approve.
If your vehicle was scratched, dented, or otherwise damaged during the tow or while in the impound yard, Refund can include a damage claim alongside the fee dispute — you don’t need to lodge two separate cases.
What you’ll need
Where you were parked
The street address or location, and a description of the signage (or lack of it) at the spot.
Impound paperwork
The towage and storage invoice or release documents, showing the charges you were asked to pay.
Photos of the location
Photos of the spot where your car was parked, including any signs, road markings, or the absence of them.
Photos of any damage
If your vehicle was damaged during the tow, photos of the damage — ideally time-stamped — support a compensation claim.
Prefer to hand it off entirely?
- Chat interface
- Autonomous agent
Go to refund.co.nz/case/tow, describe what happened, and upload your paperwork. Refund drafts the dispute and sends it once you’ve approved it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I challenge the tow even if I've already paid to get my car back?
Can I challenge the tow even if I've already paid to get my car back?
Yes. Paying the impound fees to retrieve your vehicle does not waive your right to dispute the charges. You can still lodge a review and claim a refund if the tow was unlawful or procedurally defective.
What if the tow company damaged my vehicle but the council arranged the tow?
What if the tow company damaged my vehicle but the council arranged the tow?
Refund reviews the contractual and procedural chain to identify who is responsible. Both the council and the tow operator may have liability, and Refund will direct the claim to the right party.
How much does it cost?
How much does it cost?
Nothing up front. Refund charges a 25% success fee only if it saves you money. If the challenge is unsuccessful, you pay nothing.
Is this legal advice?
Is this legal advice?
No. Refund provides general information and manages the administrative dispute process on your behalf. It is not a law firm and is not affiliated with any council or government agency.