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Daewoo. Don't really know much about them or even where they are built...are they any good as they seem to be the cheaper of the bunch on trademe??

As with most things in life, there's a reason why some are cheaper than others. Daewoo were built in Korea at a time when Korean products were quite second rate. Generally, they used old generation Vauxhall/Opel body shells which were prone to rust, and low grade mechanicals. They weren't very popular when they were new, and haven't got any better with the passing of time.
I think you're better going for a Japanese car, even if it is an older model.

Ok..will be definately on the Toyota/nissan/ mazda and perhaps Mitsibuhsi course. Really interested in some Toyota corollas that seem to be in really good condition and provide good value for money..however many of them have done up to and beyond 280,000-300,000. Ive seen a few with almost 400,000 on the clock of 1993-1997 model 1.3 xl hatchbacks....they seem in good condition and a good price within budget and Ive heard if you look after them they will simply keep soldiering on...is it a good idea to go for a Corolla xl with maybe 300,000 if in good condition..should it last alright??

You don't say what your budget is, but from the cars you are suggesting, you're understandably looking to spend as little as possible.
A 300,000km car is high risk, no matter what brand, so unless you have mechanical skills to do your own repairs, a 300,000km car is likely to cost you a lot in repairs and maintenance.

Good point. My budget is about 2200, if it was really good can stretch to $2500 (i know thats not much but could make a difference). One car that keeps popping up for the budget are Nissan Sentras. most of these for this budget are around 1995 with 170-220000kms. These cars (seem) to be good as being nz new the paint looks better than a jap import which fades and peels. I dont know wether the nissans of that era are cam chain driven or not or a cambelt. My budget is around $2000-$2500, not really looking to spend as little as possible...willing to go to full amount I can of $2500 as I do want a car that works fine and will do me atleast a few years of good service. The smaller cars tend to be a bit more expensive especially corollas as they are popular, and big cars are a bit cheaper as no one wants them but then again neither do I. Im going to go for Japenese definately like you suggested...is anything below 225000 acceptable for a car under 1600cc??

OK, it seems you have a good idea of what is and is not worth buying. The Sentra would be an excellent choice and they are chain driven. As you realise, the mileage is likely to be around 200k for cars of this age and price range, but a well maintained Sentra would be fine.