What is the age restriction on imported cars in New Zealand?

Vehicles should not be older than 25 years in order for them to be imported in New Zealand.

Do I need a license from the government to import cars in New Zealand

No. There is no requirement for a license by the government. However, you need to obtain an import approval for both the importation of the automobile and the supply of the automobile within the New Zealand market.

How much car import tax must I pay when importing a vehicle from Japan to New Zealand?

Taxes and duties applied depend upon the country of origin. If the vehicle originates from a country with a free trade agreement with New Zealand, such as Japan, then only a 10% tax is charged.

Can I import a Japanese car to New Zealand?

Japanese cars can be imported in New Zealand through its seaports.

Top Japanese Used Cars for Sale in New Zealand

Import Regulations

Year Restriction

No Restriction

Shipping Port

Auckland

Time to Ship

3 to 4 weeks

(can vary)

Pre-shipment inspection

Yes

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Used Cars Import Rules and Regulations in New Zealand

Age Restriction

There is no age restriction for car import in New Zealand.

Right-Hand Drive Vehicles

You can import right-hand drive vehicles into the country

There are restrictions on the import of left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles, and left-hand drive vehicles (LHD) are converted to right-hand drive vehicles before registering and driving on the road in New Zealand.

Inspection

Before importing a vehicle into New Zealand from Japan, JEVIC and Quarantine inspection (MAF Biosecurity) must be done in Japan.

Moreover, all the used vehicles from Japan need to pass through Biosecurity clearance as they might contain several biosecurity contaminants, including high-risk pest species such as the Lymantria diaper (Asian gypsy moth). This is done to determine the type and degree of slippage.

Road Worthiness Check

The vehicles must undergo compliance checks before they can be driven on New Zealand roads. Keep in mind that if your vehicle has chassis damage, it will fail the compliance check, and you will have to pay a massive amount in repair costs.

Import Duties and Taxes on Used Cars in New Zealand

Generically, no tariff duty is applied on automobiles, and they are only subjected to a 15% sales tax.

Documents Required for Import of Vehicle in New Zealand

Original commercial invoice
Original certificate of registration and title
Bill of lading (BL)
Original invoice
ID card/passport copy
Vehicle license document or insurance certificate
New Zealand Customs Client Code Application.

Customer Reviews

Superior services provided

Mazda BONGO VAN

I am going to state it simply for everyone who is not sure if they should choose SAT for Japanese used car purchases. Everyone, SAT is the best choice if you are looking for a reliable, smooth, and convenient car purchase process. I purchased a Mazda Bongo from them and it came in a flawless condition. Super happy with their services.

Guest

Apr 25, 2024

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Loyal Customer

Mazda DEMIO

I am one of the loyal customers of SAT as I have been purchasing cars from them for about 7 years now, and not once have I experienced issues in my shipment. I have purchased 4 cars from them so far, and this time I purchases a Mazda Demio. I receive an amazing response from their team every time.

Guest

Mar 15, 2024

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Quick Service

Isuzu ELF TRUCK

I purchased an Isuzu Elf Truck from SAT, and the company handled all custom clearances effectively. I faced no delays or complications during the entire process. The car is in excellent condition, both aesthetically and mechanically. I received my cart from Mombasa port, and I am satisfied with my purchase.

Guest

Mar 20, 2024

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Remarkable experience.

Honda FIT

My experience of purchasing a used Honda Fit from SAT and having it shipped to Kenya was extraordinary. Their exceptional customer service, fast shipment, and remarkable vehicle quality has surpassed my expectations. I recommend this company to everyone looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and hassle-free process of importing Japanese used cars.

Guest

Jan 16, 2024

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Excellent sales staff

Honda SHUTTLE

What I found best about SAT during my whole purchase process was their prompt responses. They handled all my queries and concerns effectively and guided me through the entire process. Their professionalism and dedication have impressed me. I ordered a Honda Shuttle and I couldn’t be happier. It was evident that the company had taken a good time selecting and inspecting the vehicle.

Guest

Apr 06, 2023

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Great Company

Honda VEZEL

After doing extensive research I settled on this reputable company that specializes in importing vehicles from Japan. From my first interaction, I knew they would provide great service. After selecting my Honda Vezel , they handled my paperwork tremendously and arranged my shipment speedily. I am impressed with the company’s commitment to reliable and efficient service.

Guest

May 27, 2023

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Fast delivery and amazing quality

Mazda DEMIO

I recently got a chance to buy a Mazda Demio from SAT and I am highly pleased with my purchase. My experience has been nothing but exceptional so far and the process of shipping was much faster than what I anticipated. From the time I decided to purchase from SAT till I received my order, the whole process was extremely smooth.

Guest

Sep 05, 2023

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Exellent vehicle condition

Mercedes Benz C-CLASS

I got the most perfect ride in the Mercedes C-Class I purchased from SAT. It has a great interior, nice suspension, good brakes, and perfect mileage. Overall, it is an excellent vehicle.

Guest

Feb 08, 2023

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Great Engine

Nissan AD EXPERT

It has been a great experience to purchase from SAT. I purchased a Nissan AD. The car is in good condition, the engine is also good, and I got the car at a great cost. I am fully satisfied with the services provided by the SAT team.

Guest

Oct 03, 2022

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Find Your Dream Car with SAT

Japanese Used Cars in New Zealand

$5,171

Toyota COROLLA FIELDER

2017-01 nke165

139019 km | RHD | 1500cc

$9,680

Toyota HARRIER

2017-01 zsu65w

71395 km | RHD | 1980cc

$18,474

Toyota RAV4

2020-09 6BA-MXAA54

33650 km | RHD | 2000cc

$6,711

Nissan NOTE

2017-06 DAA-HE1

17425 km | RHD | 1200cc

$13,020

Honda VEZEL

2017-09 DAA-RU3

38700 km | RHD | 1500cc

$13,684

Mazda CX-5

2017-02 LDA-KF2P

47214 km | RHD | 2200cc

$3,637

Toyota PROBOX VAN

2017-12 nsp160v

112265 km | RHD | 1300cc

$14,868

Toyota C-HR

2017-08 DBA-NGX50

33675 km | RHD | 1200cc

$8,782

Subaru FORESTER

2017-02 sj5

97906 km | RHD | 2000cc

$22,237

Toyota LAND CRUISER PRADO

2017-03 CBA-TRJ150W

68270 km | RHD | 2700cc

$6,303

Honda N-ONE

2017-01 DBA-JG1

8928 km | RHD | 660cc

$17,546

Toyota RAV4

2019-04 6BA-MXAA54

34817 km | RHD | 2000cc

$11,645

Mercedes Benz C-CLASS

2017-00 RBA-205242C

23800 km | RHD | 2000cc

$11,053

Toyota VOXY

2017-01 DBA-ZRR80W

73463 km | RHD | 2000cc

$5,641

Toyota ESQUIRE

2017-01 zrr85g

133093 km | RHD | 2000cc

$22,895

Toyota HILUX

2018-00 QDF-GUN125

67304 km | RHD | 2400cc

$5,106

Toyota SIENTA

2017-01 nsp170g

123646 km | RHD | 1500cc

$3,622

Honda FIT

2017-02 gk3

106084 km | RHD | 1300cc

$21,572

Mitsubishi CANTER

2017-01 TPG-FEA50

213470 km | RHD | 2990cc

$1,513

Nissan NV150 AD