New Zealand.
Import with clarity.

New Zealand is one of the world's largest importers of Japanese used vehicles. Thanks to compatible right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, high Japanese quality standards, and competitive pricing, thousands of Japanese vehicles are imported into New Zealand each year.

However, imported vehicles must comply with New Zealand's border, safety, emissions, and registration requirements before they can be driven on public roads.

Yes. New Zealand allows the importation of used vehicles from Japan, provided they comply with New Zealand's import, safety, emissions, and registration standards. Before purchasing, ensure the vehicle is eligible for registration and can meet New Zealand compliance requirements.

Unlike many countries, New Zealand does not have a maximum vehicle age limit for imported used cars. However, the vehicle must:

• Pass entry certification
• Meet applicable frontal impact standards (where required)
• Meet emissions requirements
• Be roadworthy
• Successfully complete compliance inspection Older vehicles may require additional checks before registration.

New Zealand drives on the left-hand side of the road.

New Zealand has some of the world's strictest biosecurity regulations. Every imported vehicle is inspected for:

• Soil
• Seeds
• Plant material
• Insects
• Animal contamination
• Organic matter Vehicles that fail inspection must be professionally cleaned before release.

Before registration, every imported vehicle must undergo entry certification by an approved inspection organisation. Inspectors verify:

• Structural integrity
• Odometer
• Vehicle identity
• Roadworthiness
• Brake performance
• Steering
• Suspension
• Seat belts
• Airbags
• Lighting
• Rust or corrosion Any defects must be repaired before registration.

Many passenger vehicles first registered after certain dates must comply with New Zealand's frontal impact standards. Importers should confirm compliance before purchasing, particularly for older models.

Imported vehicles must satisfy New Zealand's emissions requirements applicable at the time of entry certification. Many modern Japanese vehicles already comply with the necessary standards. Hybrid and electric vehicles are commonly imported into New Zealand.

Most used passenger vehicles imported into New Zealand are not subject to customs duty, but importers may need to pay:

• Goods and Services Tax (GST)
• Biosecurity inspection fees
• Port charges
• Customs processing fees
• Entry certification fees
• Registration fees
• Number plate fees
• Compliance inspection costs Charges vary depending on:
• Vehicle value
• Shipping cost
• Insurance
• Vehicle type
• Current government regulations Always obtain an updated landed cost quotation before purchasing.

Typical documentation includes:

• Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading
• Export Certificate from Japan
• Purchase Invoice
• Shipping Documents
• Passport or Identification
• Customs Declaration
• Entry Certification Documents
• Proof of Ownership Additional documents may be required depending on the vehicle.

Japanese vehicles commonly arrive at:

• Auckland
• Tauranga
• Wellington
• Lyttelton (Christchurch)
• Nelson

1. Choose your vehicle in Japan. 2. Confirm New Zealand eligibility. 3. Purchase the vehicle. 4. Arrange export documentation. 5. Ship the vehicle to New Zealand. 6. Complete customs clearance. 7. Pass biosecurity inspection. 8. Complete entry certification. 9. Repair any compliance issues if necessary. 10.

Register the vehicle and obtain number plates. 11. Purchase vehicle insurance. 12. Drive legally in New Zealand.

Japanese vehicles are popular in New Zealand because they offer:

• Excellent reliability
• Low mileage
• High maintenance standards
• Competitive prices
• Large selection of hybrid vehicles
• Strong resale value
• Easy availability of spare parts

At 360 Moto Japan, we provide comprehensive export services for customers in New Zealand, including:

• Japanese vehicle sourcing
• Live auction bidding
• Independent vehicle inspections
• Export documentation
• RoRo and container shipping
• Freight quotations
• Personal Buying Agent services
• End-to-end export support from Japan to New Zealand

The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and is based on regulations available at the time of publication.

Import laws, customs duties, taxes, vehicle eligibility, inspection requirements, shipping procedures, and registration rules may change without prior notice and may vary depending on the destination and local authorities.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with the New Zealand Customs Service, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), and other relevant government authorities before purchasing or importing a vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or error-free and accept no liability for any changes in regulations or additional costs incurred after purchase.