What is the age limit for importing Japanese cars to New Zealand?

No strict age limit. Some emissions standards apply.

Import Japanese Car to New Zealand — Complete Guide 2026

Q: What documents do I need to import a car from Japan to New Zealand?

Export Certificate (Shaken equivalent), Bill of Lading, Invoice, Insurance, Border clearance declaration

Age Limit

No limit

Import Duty

~15% total

0% import duty + 15% GST + ~$400 NZD compliance/border costs

Steering Side

RHD

Right-hand drive only. Drives on the left.

Transit Time

10–14 days

From Japanese port to New Zealand

✅ Age Check — No Restriction

New Zealand has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).

📍 Entry Ports

🚢 Auckland (Ports of Auckland) 🚢 Wellington 🚢 Lyttelton (Christchurch)

📋 Required Documents

📄Export Certificate (Shaken equivalent)

📄Bill of Lading

📄Invoice

📄Insurance

📄Border clearance declaration

🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process

Buy RHD vehicle in Japan

Arrange shipping — RORO or container

Pay 15% GST at border + border clearance levy

Get entry certification (initial compliance)

Obtain WoF (Warrant of Fitness)

💰 Import Duty & Taxes

0% import duty + 15% GST + ~$400 NZD compliance/border costs

⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in New Zealand before committing to a purchase.

🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles

⛔Must meet NZ exhaust emission standards (generally 1996+ meets Euro 2)

⛔Some high-emission vehicles may be refused entry

🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection

Entry certification required. WoF (Warrant of Fitness) after arrival.

🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy

Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-New Zealand imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.

💡 Import Tips for New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the easiest countries to import Japanese cars. The 0% duty is a major advantage. Ensure you have a clean title and the vehicle meets NZ emissions.