01 — Key details
Destination port
Auckland
Transit time
35–50 days
Local currency
NZD
Available methods
Container
How it works
We source your vehicle from UK auctions or dealers
Full inspection, export documentation and DVLA notification
Vehicle shipped from UK port to Auckland
You receive all documents and updates throughout
Vehicle cleared and delivered to your door
03 — Local import rules
What you need to know about importing to New Zealand.
New Zealand drives on the left and uses right-hand drive vehicles. A major advantage is zero customs duty on vehicle imports. The key costs are GST and potential Clean Car Standard charges for higher-emission vehicles. Biosecurity clearance is mandatory.
Right-hand drive
Yes — required for standard vehicles; left-hand drive only permitted for vehicles over 20 years old under specific conditions
Maximum vehicle age
No strict age limit; vehicles over 20 years may be imported LHD under special conditions
Required documentation
Proof of ownership · Commercial invoice · Bill of Lading and shipping documents · Customs entry declaration · Biosecurity import authority (MPI clearance) · NZTA entry certification approval letter · Vehicle standards compliance documentation · Border inspection report
Customs duty
0% — New Zealand applies no customs duty on vehicle imports
VAT / local tax
15% GST on total landed cost (purchase price + shipping + insurance); Clean Car Standard charge may apply for high-emission vehicles (CO2 target 145g/km in 2024, decreasing to 63.3g/km by 2027)
Registration cost
NZD 50–100 one-time registration + NZD 200–400/year vehicle licensing; entry certification inspection NZD 100–300
Roadworthiness inspection
Yes — mandatory biosecurity inspection by MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries); NZTA entry certification inspection required; full NZ Warrant of Fitness (WoF) required after registration
Notable restrictions
Clean Car Standard charges apply to vehicles with CO2 emissions above target — this can add thousands of NZD in fees for high-emission vehicles. Biosecurity is strictly enforced. Vehicle must be NZTA entry-certified before registration.
Port clearance time
2–4 weeks total (biosecurity 3–7 days + NZTA certification 1–2 weeks + registration 2–5 days)
Buyer note
Zero customs duty is a significant saving compared with other markets — but check the Clean Car Standard charge for your specific vehicle's CO2 figure before purchase.
Sources
Information last researched 13 May 2026. Import regulations and duty rates change frequently. Always confirm current requirements with the destination country's customs authority before shipment. Damianos Auto Exports provides current verification as part of our export service.
04 — Ready to begin
Start your New Zealand export.
Tell us what you need and we'll handle everything from sourcing to delivery.
Request a vehicle