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I have just changed all my tyres - 225/55R18 and my SUV spec says 32 psi (220). The tyre centre had it at 40 psi (270), thus +8 psi. I called to clarify and they said the spec is only meant for when the vehicle is new and for my SUV (now 4.5 years) I should have it at 38-40 psi. Aware of the consequences of over or under inflation. This is not the first time . Same was done for my wagon and also whenever I do my alignment/balancing with them. Seems to be a trend in NZ (having read some other posts) ? Lived in another country and drove for 14 years and always advised to follow the vehicle specifications. Any advise appreciated.

If the manufacturer says 32psi, I wouldn't run pressures at 40psi, which is 25% greater than the manufacturer's recommendation. Certainly, if you are carrying heavy loads, I'd have no issue going around 10% more (say, around 35psi), but 40psi seems too high if the manufacturer says 32psi.
Our advice is no different to that which you have been given overseas, and run with the manufacturer's recommendation.
On another note, for most mainstream passenger vehicles, if you are unsure what the manufacturer's spec is, as a rough rule of thumb, you won't go far wrong at 32psi.

Thanks for the prompt response ! Will have it adjusted in the morning ... :-).