This page applies to class MA vehicles (passenger vehicles) only. Please confirm your vehicle belongs to class MA before importing under the ‘special interest’ category.
Class MA vehicles (passenger vehicles)
Ask an entry certifier if you are unsure of your vehicle category, before you import.
You may be able to import and register such a vehicle without needing an exemption, but to do so you will need to meet a number of specific conditions and apply for a special interest vehicle permit.
The requirements mean motoring enthusiasts are able to bring in non-compliant vehicles that are designated as special interest vehicles, provided that all the specified requirements are met.
Importing a class LC, LD or LE vehicle under the ‘special interest’ category is a separate process.
You will need to apply to an entry certifier to obtain a special interest vehicle permit. A fee will be charged to process your application.
You need to fill in an Application for a special interest vehicle permit (SIVVP) form, which includes making a declaration that you have met the current requirements and will also meet future requirements. The indicative fee for processing $23.20. This has to be paid before NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) starts work on the application.
Application for a special interest vehicle permit (SIVVP) form(external link)
The file will then be referred to NZTA to make an assessment and decision.
If you do not complete this process, your vehicle will not be entry-certified and will not be able to be registered for use on New Zealand roads.
Note: a special interest vehicle permit ceases to be valid if the vehicle is not inspected at the border or certified for entry within six months of the date of issue.
You must make a declaration that:
Note: it is an offence to provide a false or misleading declaration.
Requirements that the vehicle must meet
To have a vehicle identified as a special interest vehicle, NZTA must deem it to have historic value or it must meet three of the following four requirements:
We may ask for additional information.
Other requirements for importing a vehicle into New Zealand
In addition to the declaration on the application, you must:
NZTA may not issue more than 200 special interest vehicle permits in any one calendar year. As a result, you may not be issued with a special interest vehicle permit if 200 such permits have already been issued in the calendar year in which you apply.
A special interest vehicle permit that ceases to be valid in the calendar year it was issued will not be counted in the quota total mentioned above.
All permit applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and are required to meet the criteria set out in legislation. If a vehicle is on the below list, this does not mean another vehicle of the same make, model, sub-model would automatically be approved. This list cannot be used as proof that a vehicle meets the criteria and you will still be required to provide the supporting documentation to confirm that both you and your vehicle meet the criteria set out on the application form.
NZTA is not obligated to grant a permit if it is not considered appropriate and may impose conditions to any permit.
Vehicle models granted special interest vehicle permits 2018 and 2019 [PDF, 118 KB]
NZTA cannot grant exemptions from any conditions for special interest vehicles, including the quota total.
No, special interest vehicles are excluded from the Clean Car Standard and the Vehicle Efficiency and Emissions Data Rule.
Under the Land Transport Rule: Light Vehicle Brakes 2002 special interest vehicles do not have to comply with the electronic stability control requirements of the rule but must meet the other requirements for that vehicle.
A special interest vehicle permit is not a left-hand drive permit.
