Government proposes longer WOFs for classics
The government is moving to ease compliance requirements for vintage vehicles and privately owned motorhomes, proposing a reduction in the frequency of Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and Certificate of Fitness (COF) inspections.
Currently, vintage light vehicles—defined as cars and motorcycles over 40 years old—along with private heavy motorhomes, must undergo inspections every six months. The proposed change, announced by Transport Minister Chris Bishop, would extend this to an annual requirement.
“Everyone loves seeing a lovingly maintained vintage car out on the road for a Sunday drive, and cruising around our beautiful country in a motorhome is a quintessential Kiwi dream,” Bishop said. “However, owners of these vehicles currently spend unnecessary time and money on frequent inspections, despite their relatively low mileage and lower rate of contributing to serious crashes.”
There are around 128,000 vintage vehicles and 39,000 private motorhomes in New Zealand. Statistics show that faults in these vehicles are half as likely to be a factor in serious crashes compared to modern vehicles, even when accounting for the smaller numbers on the road.
Additionally, WOF pass rates tend to improve as vehicles age beyond 40 years, reflecting the care and maintenance these vehicles receive from dedicated owners.
The proposed consultation, managed by Waka Kotahi NZTA, will explore:
- Reducing WOF inspections for vehicles over 40 years old from every six months to annually.
- Reducing COF inspections for privately owned heavy motorhomes from every six months to annually.
Bishop framed the proposal as a common-sense adjustment. “Extending the time between WOF and COF inspections is a balanced approach, maintaining vehicle safety without excessive compliance burdens.”
Public consultation on the proposed changes will begin on 24 February 2025, with feedback open until 4 April 2025. Submissions can be made via the NZTA website.
