Importing non-standard cars to new zealand

[BEN99W]

If all goes well, I will be moving to NZ. Im wondering about my car situation. Specifically, I have a 2002 MX5 that is modified with a turbo, coil-overs, interior modifications and chassis bracing. I also have a 1969 mini which has a fair few non-standard parts.

Its very difficult to get a good price for a mk2 MX5 because many are rusted and as they keep on building MX5s, supply never diminishes, however mines barely seen rain and only has 35k on the clock. As an ownership proposition, it's a keeper. Similarly the mini is in lovely condition but has had the original 850 lump replaced with a throbbing 1000 A+ and has a completely reupholstered interior with bucket seats.

I get the impression that non-standard cars are very difficult to import into NZ but im not sure what those obstacles are and how easy they are to overcome. Any locals have an insight they could share?

Cheers

Ben

[antipodes40]

I imported a stock Skoda Octaia VRS from the UK and even that had to undergo a compliance check. I'm guessing that a modified car will need to undergo a full compliance check, which means all modifications will need to be checked off as safe.

Your best bet may be to contact the LVVTA (Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association) and ask them. I had to deal with them to get my scratch built GT40 road legal and they were very forthcoming about what they required. However, be warned that you should choose your compliance person very carefully. Mine was great, but I have heard some absolute horror stories about others.

[BEN99W]

Thanks, the LVVTA website does make things a bit clearer although it sounds like youre saying not everyone interprets their advice the same.

[antipodes40]

BEN99W said:

Thanks, the LVVTA website does make things a bit clearer although it sounds like youre saying not everyone interprets their advice the same.

Possibly more that some compliance officers stick rigidly to the letter of the law, with no room for argument, while others interpret the rules a little more sympathetically.