Auto Trader NZ
Published 3 September 2020
January’s registration data has just been released by the NZ Transport Agency, showing that the new car market is strong.
January’s sales of 5601 units were the second highest monthly figures recorded in the past 15 months, and well ahead of the 3973 recorded in December 2009.
MTA spokesman, Marketing and Communications General Manager, Ian Stronach said: “This is great news, after some very difficult times in the last year or so, it’s terrific to see that the year has started on a such positive note.”
“While it’s early days, there has been strengthening trend in many overseas markets, so it’s good to see our market showing a lift, and without the external stimulus that many of these other markets have relied on.”
“Buyers seem to be returning to the market; in some cases they have simply had to replace vehicles that were well past their economic life, and there’s a limit to how long this can be deferred. A good start to the year may well be the impetus the market needs to return to its more traditional level of sales.”
Toyota has remained on top with sales of 1172 units, followed by Holden, then with Mazda taking third spot. Ford and Suzuki rounded out the top five.
The Toyota Corolla maintained its lead as the most popular car in the market with 651 sales, while Holden’s Cruze surprised with 316 sales for second place. Suzuki Swift, Mazda3 and Holden Commodore filled the remainder of the top five spots.
Used import sales of 6828 were also up, 26% ahead of the same period last year.
Overall activity in the existing used car market, as measured through Change of Ownership activity, shows the market holding steady and showing no change.
The commercial sector did not fare quite as well with sales of 1102 units down 9% over January 2009, making it one of the quietest months for sales in a while.
