Significant updates are coming to New Zealand’s car registration system. From October 2025, motorists will see changes in how much they pay to register their vehicles, along with updated Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and vehicle licensing costs. This shift is part of a broader government strategy to modernize road user charges, streamline compliance, and better fund infrastructure and safety initiatives.
Here’s everything you need to know about the NZ car registration fee changes October 2025, including a full breakdown of the new rates and what these changes mean for everyday drivers.
Why Are the Registration Fees Changing?
The Ministry of Transport and Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) have confirmed that the upcoming fee structure aims to address several longstanding concerns:
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Funding shortfalls in the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF)
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Encouraging greater road safety compliance
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Reflecting the true cost of road use, especially by heavy and high-emission vehicles
This marks the first comprehensive review in over a decade and includes adjustments based on vehicle type, age, fuel type, and emissions category.
What Are the New Registration Fees?
As of October 1, 2025, the new vehicle license cost in NZ will vary significantly by vehicle class and fuel type. Below is a general outline of the updated fee categories:
Petrol & Diesel Passenger Vehicles (Private Use)
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Petrol under 2.0L engine: $112.50 (previously $109.24)
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Petrol over 2.0L engine: $132.70 (previously $122.76)
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Diesel vehicles: $194.00 (up from $180.25, reflecting higher RUC liabilities)
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles
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Hybrid cars: $118.40 (up from $111.89)
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Plug-in hybrid vehicles: $125.90
Note: Plug-in hybrids will also face revised RUC rates due to partial electric usage.
Fully Electric Vehicles (EVs)
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EV registration: $76.30
While EVs were previously exempt from road user charges (RUCs), this category will now include a partial annual RUC offset built into registration fees.
Commercial and Heavy Vehicles
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Light commercial vans: $210.00
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Heavy trucks (over 3.5 tonnes): Based on emissions and axle count, with fees ranging from $400 to $1,200 annually.
WOF Fees Update – What’s Changing?
In addition to the licensing changes, a WOF fees update is also set to take effect in October 2025. Key points include:
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Standard passenger WOF fee: Increased to $65 (up from $55)
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Heavy vehicle COF (Certificate of Fitness): Now ranges from $130 to $160 depending on size and use
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Introduction of a digital WOF reporting system, allowing real-time checks and better compliance tracking
These updates aim to improve inspection quality and align testing fees with rising operational costs for certified mechanics and testing stations.
Key Impacts for Vehicle Owners
Motorists should prepare for modest increases across most vehicle categories. However, the structure incentivizes low-emission and electric vehicles, in line with New Zealand’s climate targets. Here’s how it could affect different groups:
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Everyday drivers: Expect a $10–$20 annual increase on average
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Fleet operators: Higher costs, particularly for diesel vehicles, may prompt a shift toward EVs
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Rural communities: Diesel vehicle owners may bear the brunt of the hike, although fuel efficiency remains a consideration
How to Check Your New Fee
Waka Kotahi will launch an online tool in September 2025 allowing drivers to check their specific fee by entering their vehicle’s plate number. This will include:
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Base license fee
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RUC charges (if applicable)
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Any emissions-related surcharges
Tips to Minimize Your Costs
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Consider switching to hybrid or electric: Lower base fees and RUC exemptions or reductions
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Maintain your vehicle: A failed WOF can lead to extra costs and delays
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Prepay for multiple years: Some discounts apply for multi-year licensing renewals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When do the new NZ car registration fee changes come into effect?
The updated fees take effect on October 1, 2025.
2. How much will I pay for my WOF after the update?
Standard WOFs will cost $65, with commercial vehicle checks costing more.
3. Do electric vehicles still avoid RUC?
No. From October 2025, EVs will have a partial RUC charge embedded in their registration fee.
4. Why are diesel vehicles more expensive to register?
Diesel vehicles don’t pay fuel excise duty at the pump, so their higher registration and RUC fees reflect road usage costs.
5. Where can I find the exact cost for my vehicle?
Waka Kotahi will provide a fee calculator online by September 2025 at nzta.govt.nz.
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