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Hi, firstly thank you for some of the past answers which have been greatly insightful. Now I know that most people say to avoid taking the sticker price and should try haggle. I also realise that the amount that you can haggle will depend on each business, salesman and car basis. However was wondering what could be a "rough" ballpark on how much to expect when looking at a $8-12k car. Would being able to get $1,500 off be optimistic? And any recommendations on approaches to haggling in New Zealand?

It becomes a very grey area when you're talking about used cars in this price range. In reality, you're unlikely to get $1,500 off the sticker price of an $8k car. That's close to 20%, and contrary to popular belief, the dealer is unlikely to have that much margin. However, there's nothing to stop you trying, but don't be surprised if the dealer closes the door on you.
Realistically, you're probably unlikely to get more than $500 off an $8k car, so maybe try by offering $7k to start off with.
The usual approach would be to say the asking price is more than you want to spend, then try to negotiate a figure you're comfortable with. If you sign a Vehicle Offer & Sale Agreement (VOSA), make it subject to any conditions you wish to add, such as a Pre-purchase Inspection to your satisfaction, the supply of a second key, fitting a radio band expander (if it's a recent Japanese import) or any other rectification work you want done.
Don't give the dealer too big a deposit either, as if the deal turns sour, there is a potentian you could forfeit your deposit. A couple of hundred dollars should be enough (although the dealer will usually ask for $1000 or more).