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We have been told that cracking in the plastic work above where the boot opens in this car is a common and known problem. Is this true?
Can it be remedied?

I'm not completely familiar with the piece you refer to, but presume it's a cosmetic trim. While I don't know if it's common or not (although I've spoken to a colleague who had a similar vehicle and he said his never had any cracked plastic pieces anywhere), plastic trim on all cars can become brittle with age, so has the potential to crack.
There are a number of companies who specialise in repairing plastic trim, but if it is beyond repair, it may be preferable to replace the part.
Here are a couple of repairers;
Plastic Repair Co
Trimfix
Or just google "plastic trim repairs nz" for a repairer close to you.