If you are considering importing a vehicle to New Zealand, we recommend you use an entry certifier. The process can be lengthy and you will need to collect the correct supporting information for your application. Entry certifiers assess whether or not vehicles meet the applicable standards and can be registered for use on New Zealand roads.
However, if you want to import the vehicle independently we recommend that you talk with an entry certifier early in the process to get their advice on your vehicle’s suitability. If your vehicle doesn't meet the standards on arrival, it may be too late to do anything about it.
If the vehicle will never be used on the road, then you don't need to register it or meet the standards.
If you’re importing a light vehicle, you must hold a Clean Car Standard CO2 account, where the CO2 emission rating of your vehicle will be recorded and determine whether a charge is to be paid or a credit earned. Without this information, vehicles cannot complete entry to New Zealand and be registered.
If you’re importing a vehicle for your own use, you will also be subjected to the Clean Car Discount scheme, which applies when a vehicle is first registered in New Zealand. Rebates are given for vehicles with lower emissions and a fee is charged for vehicles with higher emissions.
If you’re importing a vehicle for your own use, you may be subject to Clean Card Standard and Clean Car Discount.
Someone importing a vehicle for their own use would be both the importer and the buyer. This means they would be subject to both schemes, receiving a rebate or fee under the CCD and a credit or charge under the CCS. In some cases, they may even receive a fee or charge under one scheme and a rebate or credit under the other (because the two schemes use different calculation methods). CCS charges and credits apply at entry certification and CCD rebates and fees apply at registration.
Clean Car Programme overview
Customs information on bringing vehicles to New Zealand(external link)
More information on Clean Car Standard
More information on Clean Car Discount
Before importing a vehicle, we also strongly advise you to check whether your vehicle is subject to a safety recall.
