Ask an expert
I have been living in the UK since May 2007 and was expecting to stay here for 3 years.
Because of family circumstances I am now planning to return to NZ, probably by October.
I bought a new 1.2 litre Vauxhall Corsa SXI when I arrived in May 2007 and it will have lost a huge amount in depreciation if I sell it before I return.
Can you answer the following please;
* If I bring the vehicle back, what compliance procedure does it have to go through?
* What's the likely cost?
* Can the compliance procedure be completed by the AA in Nelson?
* The car has only ever been used on sealed roads, does it have to be steam-cleaned before shipping from the UK?
Paul
From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009
It's highly likely that your car has a Whole of Vehicle Approval plate.
If the plate contains the correct information, you will need no other proof of compliance.
I suggest that you take a picture of the plate and email it to me. Once I see the plate I will be able to advise you further and yes we have a compliance facility in Nelson.
As far as compliance and registration costs are concerned, allow approx $900 for the AA to inspect, certify, test emissions, issue a warrant of fitness, fit new number plates and licence the vehicle for one year.
It would be a good idea to have the vehicle thoroughly cleaned underneath before shipping.
If deemed required, the MAF/Bio security authorities will do it automatically on arrival in NZ, at your expense.