Pros 
Cons Bay of Plenty Windscreens: A Mixed Bag of Experiences in Tauranga
Bay of Plenty Windscreens, located in Judea, Tauranga (22 Palm Grove, Judea, Tauranga 3110, NZ – phone +64 800 809 020), boasts a compelling 4.9-star rating, suggesting overall satisfaction among its customer base. Operating Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with appointments strongly recommended to ensure swift service, the shop features accessibility with both a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking. Their streamlined process aims to make windscreen replacement as hassle-free as possible. However, recent reviews reveal a fragmented experience – highlighting exceptional service for some, while others report serious issues.
Shining Stars: Praises for Speed, Price & Personal Touch
Several customers have lauded Bay of Plenty Windscreens for their outstanding service and value. Here's a breakdown of what's earning them high praise:
- Rapid Turnarounds & Convenience: Multiple reviewers specifically noted the impressive speed of service. One customer was ready within 20 minutes of dropping off their car. Loan cars are also available, extending their convenience. Another enjoyed having their vehicle brought to work and the loan car returned – a premium service rarely seen.
- Competitive Pricing: A recurring theme is the shop's notably lower prices compared to national corporations. One customer found their pricing to be "approximately 50% cheaper than the national corporate." This affordability, coupled with high-quality work, is a significant draw.
- Exceptional Customer Service – Shoutouts to Ethan, Poppy, Hayden & Cam: Specific mentions of staff members like Ethan, Poppy, Hayden, and Cam highlight the friendly and efficient service. Ethan is described as a "top bloke," while Poppy's responsiveness (contacting customers within an hour about part availability) is consistently praised. Cam and his team are also recognised for handling insurance claims smoothly.
- Quality Workmanship: Beyond speed and price, several customers highlighted the cleanliness and quality of the installation. One reviewer appreciated the "pristine install with no grubby handprints," a detail often overlooked by other businesses. Their ability to handle urgent replacements - particularly for a granddaughter needing a windscreen replaced before leaving Tauranga - was deemed "outstanding".
“Grand daughter suffered smashed windscreen so urgently required replacement prior to departure from Tauranga... Both [service and workmanship] were absolutely outstanding and at the very best price in town.” - Satisfied Customer
Navigating the Rough Patch: Service Concerns and Complaints
Unfortunately, not all experiences with Bay of Plenty Windscreens have been positive. A recurring narrative highlights issues related to quality control and reliability, sparking considerable frustration for some customers. Here’s a summary of the key concerns:
- 2018 Incident – Missing Parts & Registration Issues: One customer detailed a concerning experience involving a missing rubber seal on the windscreen edges after an after-hours collection, and the vehicle’s registration not being replaced, requiring a costly and inconvenient return trip. Promises to source replacement rubber pieces were not fulfilled.
- 2019 Troubles – Leaks and Repeated Attempts: Another customer described a prolonged and frustrating ordeal in 2019, which included lateness, a leaking windscreen requiring three attempts to fix, and a “botched job” with a sealant that failed. A cancelled appointment compounded the frustration.
- Refusal of Refund: A significant point of contention appears to be the shop's unwillingness to issue refunds even when service has been demonstrably poor, leading the frustrated customer to pursue a dispute tribunal claim.
- Inconsistent Communication/Availability: Additionally, difficulty in getting responses from other tauranga windshield companies for quotes and the mention of a "no show" appointment further illustrate inconsistencies.
A Word of Caution & Considerations for Potential Customers
Given the polarizing customer feedback, prospective customers of Bay of Plenty Windscreens should exercise caution and manage expectations. While many rave about the excellent service, competitive pricing, and friendly staff, others detail serious quality control and communication issues. Here are some points to consider:
- Appointment Scheduling is Crucial: The recommendation for appointments seems vital, likely to minimise wait times and ensure availability of staff.
- Thorough Inspection Post-Service: Carefully inspect the completed work immediately upon retrieving your vehicle, noting any discrepancies or defects. Document this with photographs (as evidenced by the reviews).
- Insurance Claims: The ease of handling insurance claims, as mentioned by one reviewer, could be a beneficial aspect for customers with coverage.
- Be Aware of Potential for Delays/Issues: The negative reviews suggest potential for delays or substandard workmanship. Setting realistic expectations and being prepared to advocate for your needs is advisable.