It is quite cheap and easy to buy a car in New Zealand and it is a good option if you are staying for a while and want to be independent. You can buy cars from noticeboards in supermarkets and backpackers, the newspaper, the internet (for example www.trademe.co.nz), from car auctions and roadside car fairs, and from car dealers. It is a good idea to get the car checked before you buy it. The Automobile Association or any mechanic will do this for a fee.
Important information
- Check that the car has a current Warrant of Fitness. This is a safety check done every 6 months. Check the date on the sticker on the window. Be especially careful of rust when you buy a car as this is a problem for the WOF.
- Registration is paid every year. Check the sticker in the car window for the registration date.
- Car insurance is not compulsory in New Zealand but it is a good idea to get at least third party insurance.
- You need to have a current license from your country or an international licence to drive here and you must carry this with you at all times when you drive.
- You can find the New Zealand road rules at this link.
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