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Anon

I'd like to import a 1984 left hand drive Chevrolet Camaro.

I've been assured that the car is in excellent working condition and structurally sound, but I have three concerns.

1. Would I need to convert it to right hand Drive and how much would that cost?
2. Am I allowed to import an American car that has been super charged
3. What are the restrictions on age of a vehicle imported into NZ?

Rick

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

jbiddle

There are two vital Land Transport New Zealand documents you need to read if you wish to import a left hand drive vehicle (I am assuming it is being sourced from the USA)

Read the following factsheet on the Land Transport New Zealand website

Factsheet 12 - Importing left hand Drive vehicles
Read the following infosheet on the Land Transport New Zealand website

Infosheet 1.12 - Importing cars from the USA
In answer to your specific questions;

Because the car is over 20 years of age it is not required to be converted to right hand drive provided it is imported for your own private use
You can import a super-charged car, however if it is an aftermarket installation, it will require a Low Volume certificate as well as the normal entry certification
There are no age restrictions on the private importation of used motor vehicles
Doing your homework to avoid complications before you buy or ship the vehicle is vital from our experience.

Hope it helps