Stop using a failing device

Continuing to power, scan, initialise, repair or rebuild damaged storage can reduce the amount of data that remains recoverable. Turn the device off and avoid repeated connection attempts if it clicks, beeps, disappears, reports read errors, asks to be formatted or has suffered liquid or impact damage.

Do not open a hard drive, run CHKDSK or Disk Utility First Aid, initialise an unknown disk, rebuild a degraded RAID, restore an iPhone, or install recovery software onto the affected device.

Data recovery services

How the process works

1. Describe the case. Tell us the device, symptoms, previous attempts and priority files.
2. Send or drop off the device. We provide a case reference and packing instructions. Tracked shipping is recommended.
3. Assessment and quote. We examine the device, identify the likely recovery path and explain the expected charges and limitations.
4. You decide. Paid recovery work begins only after your approval. Declining a recoverable quote may attract the assessment fee stated on our pricing page.
5. Recovery and verification. Where possible, we stabilise the source, create a controlled image or temporary working state, then extract and verify the requested data.
6. Secure return. Recovered data is supplied on approved destination media or by another agreed method, and retained copies are deleted under the published retention policy.

Clear information before you approve

Data recovery outcomes depend on the condition of the original storage, encryption, previous attempts and whether critical components or memory cells remain readable. No provider can guarantee that every case or every file will be recoverable.

Our pricing page explains assessment charges, recovery ranges, donor parts, return media, courier costs and declined quotes. Our security and confidentiality page explains case handling, credentials, access and data retention.

Direct access to the specialist handling your case

Data Recovery Lab NZ is operated from Timaru by Michael Ganicz. Technical pages and case guidance are written to explain what is actually involved, including situations where a recovery may not be practical or possible. Learn more on the About page.

Timaru drop-off and nationwide mail-in service

Local customers can arrange a drop-off at 2/27 Nile Street, Highfield, Timaru. Customers elsewhere in New Zealand can start a case online and send the device by tracked courier. We do not claim offices in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton or Christchurch; those regions are served through the Timaru mail-in process.

Data recovery in Timaru · Nationwide mail-in instructions

Frequently asked questions

How much does data recovery cost?

Cost depends on the failure type, storage technology, capacity, encryption, donor parts and labour required. See the published pricing and fee policy for current indicative ranges and conditions.

Should I try recovery software first?

Software may be appropriate for a healthy device with an accidental deletion or simple logical issue. It is unsafe when a drive is unstable, slow, clicking, disconnecting, showing read errors or physically damaged. Ask before running software if you are uncertain.

Can you guarantee recovery?

No. A responsible assessment identifies the likely path and risks, but the final outcome depends on the physical state of the original storage and the availability of encryption credentials or keys.

Do you need my password?

Not for an initial enquiry. Some encrypted devices require a passcode, account password or recovery key later in the process. Credentials should be supplied only when requested through the agreed secure method, not through the public enquiry form.