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Craigo2
By Craigo2 | AA Member | 1 Post | 3 August 2011 at 6:18pm

Hi, I'm thinking about privately importing a car from Japan. It is just over 20 years old. Should there be any problem doing this and getting the car entry-certified and road-registered if the car is in good mechanical order and structurally sound? Secondly, can any car be imported from Japan if it is not going to be used on the road? Thanks

jbiddle
By jbiddle | Community Member | 1657 Posts | 4 August 2011 at 8:36am

All used cars imported into NZ must meet some standards before they can be road-registered. Cars over 20years of age are normally exempt from having to meet the identical standards as cars under 20 years of age however, the exact age and class of vehicle is paramount in identifying just what standards are required.

As an example (if the car is just over 20 years of age), it is highly likely this vehicle will be required to meet standards such as, but not exclusive to, glazing, door retention and seat belts.

As a NZTA compliance agent the AA can offer more detailed advice but you would need to provide specific information on this particular vehicle.

This is not the right channel to do this. Contact us on aatechnicalservices@aa.co.nz

If a used import is not intended for road-use in NZ then no standards are required to be met.