More motorists are set to benefit from changes to New Zealand’s warrant of fitness (WoF) inspection system from next week.
From July 1, all light vehicles first registered anywhere in the world on or after 1 January 2000 will move from six-monthly to annual WoFs for the lifetime of the vehicle. For new vehicles, after an initial inspection the next WoF won’t be required for three years.
The changes mark the second stage of a phased rollout of 12-monthly inspections. Light vehicles first registered between 2004 and 2008 moved from six-monthly to annual inspections from January 1 of this year.
NZ Transport Agency Acting Manager for Access and Use Robyn Elston says the changes are aimed at saving people time and money – without compromising on safety.
“Six-monthly WoF inspections were introduced back in the 1930s and vehicle safety technology has dramatically improved since then. Moving these vehicles to 12 monthly WoF inspections will save private vehicle owners and businesses time and money, without compromising on road safety.”
To support the changes and encourage vehicle owners to take a more active role in keeping their cars safe, Ms Elston said the Transport Agency was in the midst of the $2 million, three-year Check Your Car public awareness campaign.
“Regardless of whether your vehicle gets a six or 12 monthly WoF, as motorists we’re all responsible for ensuring our vehicles are safe and properly maintained throughout the year. It doesn’t take long to give your car a quick safety check and we recommend taking it to an expert if you think anything’s wrong.”
For more information on the Check Your Car campaign - including how to do a quick “TWIRL” check of your Tyres, Windscreen, Indicators, Rust and Lights, visit the Transport Agency website at www.nzta.govt.nz/checkyourcar(external link).
A summary of the changes being introduced for vehicle inspections, including commonly asked questions and answers, can be found here www.nzta.govt.nz/wof(external link).
