The Motor Trade Association (MTA) is calling on New Zealand vehicle owners to carefully consider the wider financial and safety implications of the Government’s proposed changes to the Warrant of Fitness (WOF) system.
While officials have framed the review as a cost-of-living measure, the MTA warned motorists could face higher long-term expenses and increased safety risks.
Potential hidden costs for motorists
MTA chief executive Lee Marshall said the Government’s cost calculations do not capture the full picture.
“Around twenty per cent of vehicle owners might save roughly $70 by having one fewer WoF per year,” he explained.
“But that saving could be offset by larger maintenance and repair bills, higher insurance and ACC levies, and increased taxpayer costs for enforcement and education.”
Mr Marshall also said there is a possible human cost, noting that reduced inspection frequency could lead to more harm on the roads.
Under the Government’s review, the proposed changes include:
- New vehicles: first WOF at four years (currently three).
- Vehicles 4–10 years old: WOF every two years (currently annual).
- Vehicles over 10 years old: annual WOF (currently six-monthly for pre-2000 vehicles).
- Light rental vehicles under five years old: annual COF A (currently six months).
Mr Marshall said the consultation period is too short and urged for more thorough engagement with the sector.
“The time given to consult is unreasonably short. Road safety matters. New Zealand’s road toll is very high by developed nation standards, and our vehicle fleet is the second-oldest in the OECD.”
Under current rules, WOF failure rates stand at 41 per cent, and over half a million vehicles on New Zealand roads do not have a valid WOF at any given time.
“We already struggle to enforce existing laws effectively,” Mr Marshall added.
Call for a targeted, data-driven approach
The MTA suggests factoring in mileage when determining inspection frequency and aligning WoF adjustments with the ongoing work on universal road-user charges.
“Reducing unnecessary regulatory burden is a sound idea, but it must be done thoughtfully,”
“MTA members perform millions of WOF checks annually, so we see firsthand what really happens on the ground.”
The Association says it has worked constructively with the Government on various issues and looks forward to collaborating further on the WOF review.
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