You might have thought many times that you want to have your first car and stop taking public transportation. Despite the effective transportation system in New Zealand, services can be limited – rail services only operate in Auckland, Christchurch, Greymouth, and Wellington. And because of these limitations, it may be about time to get your first car. Fortunately, owning a car is easy and fast. But there are a few requirements you need to obtain before you can finally have your first vehicle. Here is a brief guide on how to own one and what brand or make you should get.
First Steps: The New Zealand Transport Agency
The New Zealand Transport Agency requires the buyer as well as the seller to notify the agency that a transaction is ongoing by completing and filing the “change of ownership notification” within a week (7 days). Take note that this is important because failure to notify the agency may get you fined. This “notification process” can be done through the transport agency’s website.
Essential Requirements for the Buyers:
The buyer, who must enter essential details on the agency website, must have (1) New Zealand driver’s licence; (2) payment of 9.00 New Zealand Dollars (NZD) that can be paid through a credit card; and, (3) the registration number of your desired car.
After filling up the details, you will be redirected to a confirmation page, which you should print and present to the seller. After this process, a “Certificate of Registration” for your car will be sent to you via mail. However, all of the processes mentioned above can be quickly done if you decide to buy from various motor vehicle traders such as Giltrap Nissan. Reputable dealerships will provide assistance throughout the process.
Purchasing a Car Insurance
Although not mandatory, getting car insurance is a wise move that any future and current motor vehicle owners must take. Many insurance providers can offer you different products, which can protect you from losses in the event of any car accident or damage to your or other’s cars. Some of the coverage is the following:
- Comprehensive – the recommended coverage because this policy covers the entire cost to repair or replace your vehicle as well as a third-party vehicle.
- Cheapest Third-Party Policy – this insurance only covers repairs or replacement of parts or the entire vehicle of a third-party. This does not provide coverage for your car.
- Fire and Theft – has similar coverage with the cheapest third-party policy, but this time, your car will be covered for any damage caused by fire or loss by theft.
Choosing Your Car Brand
This area is a personal choice. However, after considering insurance, after-sales services, and the car brand that you prefer, your local motor vehicle trader may help you whether you’re in Wellington or Auckland. Nissan Services, Toyota Services, and many other car brands can also help you from after-sales repair and guidance.
Always try to find the car that you think would be best for you – from a sedan, hatchback, to a small van. You must also think of the primary purpose of why you want to have a car. Would you use it for long drives or daily commutes? And many other important questions.