Tourist vehicles
Tourists may import a motor vehicle into New Zealand without payment of Customs charges provided they intend to take the vehicle from New Zealand at the conclusion of their visit.
To facilitate duty free entry, it is recommended that you have in your possession a carnet de passage en douane (CPD) issued by AIT/FIA affiliated member clubs (such as the Automobile Association). If you do not have a CPD, you will be required to put up a cash deposit to cover the full
Customs charges. The deposit will be refunded providing the vehicle and attachments are exported within the stipulated period of temporary entry.
Temporary entry is normally granted for a maximum of 12 months. In exceptional circumstances, Customs may allow a once-only extension, provided a request for such an extension is made prior to the original expiry date. If the importer holds CPD documentation, it is necessary to secure extension approval from the issuing office in the country of origin. Again, this should be completed with the issuing office at least one month prior to the expiry of the original temporary entry.