Ask an expert

We are shipping a mk3 triumph spitfire from the uk. It is tax exempt and has a current mot certificate. What paperwork apart from the log book I.e ownership papers do we need to import it and do we have to send these with the car or do we send them to my mum who will pick up the car on our behalf. Any advice would be helpful as we are struggling to find a checklist of what we need to do. Many thanks maurice

The main thing you need to provide is evidence of an ownership trail. In other words, documentation showing that you are the legal owner. If the vehicle is registered in your name on the V5, that will be sufficient. If not, a receipt from the registered owner, linking you to the details on the V5 will be required.
The customs clearance agent will need the documentation in order for the vehicle to clear customs at this end. It would pay to use an agent who is familiar with New Zealand requirements and who can freight the car from the wharf to a compliance centre here (saving you two freight costs, in the event you have the car delivered to your mum's address. We have heard good reports about this company, which may be of interest to you.
Your mum will not be able to drive the car off the wharf as it cannot be used on the road here until it has passed the compliance inspection and been registered with NZ plates.