Auto Trader NZ
Published 10 February 2025
Good news for vintage car enthusiasts and motorhome owners—your trips to the testing station might soon become less frequent! The Government is consulting on a proposal to reduce Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and Certificate of Fitness (COF) inspections for vintage light vehicles and privately owned heavy motorhomes.
What’s Changing?
Currently, vintage cars and motorhomes must be inspected every six months. The proposed change would extend this to once a year, helping owners save time and money while still maintaining road safety.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the move aims to ease unnecessary compliance requirements for vintage cars, motorcycles, and private motorhomes.
“Everyone loves seeing a beautifully maintained vintage car out for a Sunday cruise, and exploring New Zealand in a motorhome is a dream for many Kiwis,” says Mr. Bishop.
Why the Change?
📌 Less Road Time, Lower Risk – Compared to modern vehicles, vintage cars and motorhomes generally travel far fewer kilometres each year. Data also shows these vehicles are half as likely to have contributed to serious crashes.
📌 Higher Pass Rates – Surprisingly, older vehicles often perform better in WOF inspections. Initial pass rates for vintage vehicles are actually higher than for cars under 40 years old. In fact, as cars age past 40 years, their pass rates improve—a testament to the care and dedication of their owners.
📌 Reducing Compliance Hassles – “This change would mean less time spent waiting in line at VTNZ and more time enjoying the open road or tinkering in the garage,” Mr. Bishop adds.
The Proposed Changes
🚗 Reduce WOF inspections for vintage vehicles (40+ years old) from every 6 months to once a year.
🚐 Reduce COF inspections for privately owned heavy motorhomes from every 6 months to once a year.
This adjustment strikes a sensible balance—keeping vehicles roadworthy without excessive compliance.
Have Your Say
Public consultation on these changes begins 24 February 2025, and runs until 4 April 2025.
Visit nzta.govt.nz to share your thoughts!
