Used Car Import Regulations in New Zealand
New Zealand generally requires right-hand drive vehicles that meet emission and frontal impact standards, along with biosecurity measures. Passenger cars are duty-free, but 15% GST applies and a Clean Car Standard charge may be levied.
Right-hand drive only
No fixed age limit
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Import Eligibility
- Vehicles meeting emission standards (models from 2005 onward)
- Frontal impact compliance certification required (mandatory for MA/MB/MC vehicles manufactured from October 2003).
- Biosecurity requirements: to prevent the entry of the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) and other invasive species, heat treatment or fumigation is required during BMSB season (September–April).
- A biosecurity certificate is required at import.
- If rust or dirt is found, cleaning or repair may be required upon entry.
Import Duties & Taxes
- Customs duty 0% (passenger cars are duty-free).
- GST of 15% is levied on CIF (vehicle + ocean freight + insurance).
- Clean Car Standard: if a vehicle's CO₂ emissions exceed the target, the importer pays a charge of up to NZ$2,875 (e.g., 180 g/km: 575 + 57.5×30). Used cars are calculated at half the new-car rate.
Vehicle Condition
Both new and used vehicles can be imported if they meet age and fuel requirements. There is also a category for classic/special vehicles (20+ years).
Required Documents
- Export certificate (Japanese deregistration certificate)
- Commercial invoice and B/L
- Pre-inspection certificate from JEVIC, etc. (structure and odometer)
- Full set of Entry Certification documents after arrival in NZ (NZTA)
Steering (RHD/LHD) Rules
- Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles in principle.
- Left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles cannot be registered except, for example, (1) classics 20+ years old or (2) vehicles with a Special Interest Vehicle (SIV) permit.
Shipping Methods
RORO or container. Main discharge ports include Auckland, Lyttelton and Wellington.
Sources
NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), New Zealand Customs Service, Ministry of Transport
Information is current as of the verification date. Please check with the relevant government authorities for the latest information.