NZTA is asking for public feedback from October 29 to December 17 on proposed changes to light vehicle warrants and certificates that could reduce visits and costs for many Hibiscus Coast motorists while keeping higher-risk vehicles on yearly checks.

The proposal would shift warrant of fitness timing for private light vehicles, which include cars, motorcycles, mopeds, vans, people-movers, and trailers:

• New vehicles: WoF valid for 4 years

• Vehicles 4–10 years old: WoF every 2 years

• Vehicles over 10 years: WoF yearly

NZTA says New Zealand checks vehicles more often than most countries, and more frequent inspections do not necessarily improve safety.

The aim is to lower costs for people using lower-risk vehicles while maintaining safety settings for higher-risk vehicles.

Other changes on the table:

• Certificates of fitness for light rental vehicles, including taxis and rideshares

• Inspectors checking fault lights for driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist

• Higher penalties, or demerit points, for offences like no valid WoF or CoF A, and for bald or damaged tyres

For the Hibiscus Coast, the two-year WoF for vehicles aged 4–10 years would mean fewer trips for many family cars, tradie vans, and trailers.

Taxi and rideshare drivers operating locally should review the proposed CoF A settings and the new checks on safety system warning lights.

Annual checks would remain for older vehicles, so owners of 10-plus-year cars still need to plan for a yearly visit.

Consultation runs from 29 October 2025 to 17 December 2025.

Have your say by 17 December using the online feedback form.

Know something local worth sharing?

Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.