When a vehicle is presented for pre-registration, the vehicle must be inspected and the chassis or frame number, or vehicle identification number (VIN), must be located on the vehicle.

(Table 4-1-1 describes permitted VIN locations).

The entry certifier must then check to see if a record of the vehicle already exists in the LANDATA computer system. If a vehicle record does exist, the entry certifier must ensure that the record is correct. If no record exists, and the vehicle is a used import, the owner must apply to NZTA for a border check exemption before the entry certifier can create a record in LANDATA for that vehicle.

If assistance is required in determining which is the correct record to use, or if a record cannot be found when there should be one, contact NZTA on 0800 804 580.

• Vehicles registered in New Zealand prior to 1996 or vehicles that have undergone a border inspection only will often be recorded with a vehicle identifier that does not match the vehicle. In such cases, care must be taken to use the search procedures to find these vehicle records.
• Always ensure that the correct VIN, chassis or frame number has been keyed.

1 VIN, chassis and frame numbers

To have a vehicle record, a vehicle must have a vehicle identifier. This will be a vehicle identification number (VIN), or a chassis or frame number.

A VIN is a series of digits and letters structured so that every vehicle has a unique identifying number, according to an international standard (ISO 3779). The VIN always contains exactly 17 characters and never contains the letters O, Q or I.

1.1 Recording vehicle identifiers

Spaces should never be keyed for VIN, chassis or frame numbers. Some may exist in historical records; these should be corrected wherever possible.

A VIN may physically have punctuation characters but these must never be recorded or keyed.

A dash may be recorded in a frame or chassis number.

1.2 Vehicles with two identifiers

Occasionally, a vehicle may be presented with two vehicle identifiers (ie two VINs, or a VIN and a chassis number).

For example:

A European vehicle sourced from the United States of America (US) may have two VINs assigned if the original European VIN does not meet US standards.

A vehicle previously registered in Japan may have a Japanese chassis number assigned in addition to the original manufacturer’s identifier.

In such cases, an entry certifier must note what the identifiers are and must explain why there are two identifiers in the Notes screen.

1.2.1 Recording a vehicle with a VIN and a chassis number

Enter:

• the VIN in the VIN field, and
• the chassis number in the chassis number field.

Important: The chassis number can only be keyed after all the attributes have been recorded using the VIN number as the identifier.

1.2.2 Recording a vehicle with two legally affixed VINs

Record:

• the VIN from the previous registration record in the VIN field, and
• the other VIN in the chassis number field.

In cases where this may cause confusion (eg the previous registration record VIN is not as visible as the other VIN, or would not be used in a manufacturer’s recall), the opposite may be recorded if approval is given by the Vehicle Certifiers Registers team.

1.3 VIN, chassis or frame number removed or damaged during repair

For all vehicles, if the VIN, chassis or frame number has been damaged or removed during repair >or the vehicle has two identifiers as a result of the repair, an entry certifier must:

1. complete a VIN approval request form (CA01) and attach specific information relating to the repairs. Send it to:

Exemptions and Registers Integrity
NZ Transport Agency
Private Bag 11777
Palmerston North 4442

Email: assessments@nzta.govt.nz

2. verify the VIN or chassis number from other sources (eg the original parts, registration papers, purchase receipts, insurance documentation), and key all details in LANDATA using this number

3. verify that any vehicle identifiers on discarded parts have been erased/destroyed

4. always record an explanation in the notes screen.

1.4 VIN, chassis or frame number not found, or modified/tampered with

For all vehicles, if the VIN, chassis or frame number cannot be located or the identifier that has been located appears to have been modified, removed, tampered with, or appears to be a reproduction, an entry certifier must:

1. complete a VIN approval request form (CA01) and send it to:

Exemptions and Registers Integrity
NZ Transport Agency
Private Bag 11777
Palmerston North 4442

Email: assessments@nzta.govt.nz

2. attempt to find a VIN or chassis number from other sources (eg registration papers, purchase receipts, insurance documentation), and key all details in LANDATA using this number

3. if an identifier still cannot be found, access the VIN screen without entering an identifier. A blank screen will display. All details are to be keyed and a record created for the vehicle

4. always record an explanation in the notes screen

5. do not approve the vehicle for registration until approval is given by Waka Kotahi.

1.5 Vehicle matched on the vehicle of interest database

When a vehicle identifier is specified in the LANDATA system, the system also searches against the ‘vehicle of interest’ (VOI) system on the enforcement database to determine whether a vehicle with the same identifier has been reported stolen.

If a match is found on the VIN screen, the following warning message will display, along with the details of the vehicle(s) found: ‘Vehicle identifier matched on external system’.

This message may be displayed even if the vehicle details are not available on the LANDATA database. The warning message is deliberately vague, so it does not raise any suspicion if the vehicle owner or dealer happens to see the message.

1.5.1 What to do if a match is found

If the warning message is displayed, or if there are any doubts regarding a vehicle’s identity, proceed with the VIN allocation without arousing suspicion.

If a ‘Vehicle report’ form (Reference material 54) has not already been submitted for the vehicle, one should be completed and emailed to the NZ Police immediately. If you are unable to email the report immediately, do it as soon as possible. If, for any reason, you are unable to complete a ‘Vehicle report’ form or forward it to the NZ Police, contact NZTA as soon as possible to report the event. Try to note all details that may help identify the vehicle and any person(s) associated with it. Do not place yourself or your colleagues at risk. You should continue with all phases of the certification process, except approving the vehicle for registration and printing the MR2A registration form. In such cases, approval for registration can only be carried out if the vehicle match is removed, or approval is granted by NZTA.

When accessing the VIN screen, LANDATA checks for all records recorded against a VIN, chassis or frame number. This captures multiple vehicles with the same chassis or frame number, and vehicles with multiple records.

If there are multiple records available for a vehicle identifier, the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen will display with a list of records found for the specified identifier.

See Figure 1-2-1

Spaces in chassis or frame numbers

When transmitting from the escape field, the system will only read as far as the next space (eg if ‘VIN GC5 123456’ is keyed, LANDATA will only read ‘VIN GC5’. The correct record will not display).

Some older records have a space in the chassis or frame number. For these vehicles:

1. type >VIN< in the escape field and transmit

2. a blank VSPCV screen will display

3. enter the chassis or frame number with the space in the VIN/chassis field and transmit

4. LANDATA will recognise the complete number as it will read the whole number between the delimiters (> <).

1 Used vehicles

See Table 1-2-1.

2 Vehicles undergoing re-registration

In 1986 the motor vehicle register (MVR) was computerised. This means only paper records will exist for most vehicles registered in New Zealand prior to 1986. A record will exist in LANDATA for most vehicles on the road in New Zealand from 1986 onwards, although the chassis number is recorded incorrectly in a number of cases.

In March 1994 LANDATA was introduced. However, its use was limited to assigning VINs to vehicles and recording entry certification. Vehicles were still registered separately on the MVR system. Duplicate records still exist in LANDATA (the VIN and the MVR record), although in most cases the records have been merged. In October 1995, the MVR was copied onto LANDATA and it was fully phased out by the beginning of 1996. Therefore, whether or not a vehicle record exists on LANDATA will depend on when it was last registered. If you suspect a vehicle record should be on LANDATA but you cannot find one, fax the details to Vehicle Certifiers Registers on 06 953 6282 and request a LANDATA search.

See Table 1-2-2.

2.1 If a vehicle record is found but the chassis field is blank

The record will not be accessible from the VIN screen.

Contact the Transport Agency on 0800 804 580 or fax the Commercial Licencing Team, Vehicle Certifier Administration on 06 953 6282 for assistance.

3 New and scratch-built vehicles

New and scratch-built vehicles may have been entered into LANDATA by another entry certifier. In this case, the existing record must be used.

If the warning message ‘Warning VIN does not decode – Contact TRC 0800 804 580’ displays, do not continue until the VIN has been decoded.

The Transport Agency will attempt to decode the VIN from their sources. If this is not possible, the vehicle owner/importer must provide decode data.

If no record exists, a record must be created using a blank VIN screen.

A scratch-built vehicle must not be recorded using the existing record of a donor vehicle.

4 Permanent registration of a temporary import

A temporarily imported vehicle presented to an entry certifier for permanent registration is required to go through the full certification process.

• Use a border check record for certification. If there is no border check record, the applicant must apply for a border check exemption.
• Temporary imports can be identified on the TRANLOG and VSPLOG screens by the transaction 'Type' of MR2C.

5 Vehicles registered using an MR2B Application for registration of a VIN exempt motor vehicle

These records cannot be used and do not provide proof of previous NZ registration. These records can be identified using the TRANLOG or VSPLOG screen, 'Type' will be MR2B.

6 Vehicles registered in New Zealand, exported, then re-imported

Use the previous NZ registration record not the border check record. Certification requirements are for a re-registration. Requirements such as Clean Car will not apply.

Table 1-2-1

Table 1-2-2

Figure 1-2-1. Example ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen

1 Requirement to capture vehicle attributes

A number of vehicle attributes are required to be maintained by the LANDATA system.

For new vehicles imported by the manufacturer’s representative, this information is supplied by the manufacturer.

For vehicles processed by entry certifiers, the required attributes must be captured as part of the VIN allocation process. Before a VIN can be assigned to a vehicle, details about the vehicle must be recorded and captured in LANDATA. A standard worksheet is used to record the required attributes. The entry certifier must examine the vehicle and record the details on this worksheet before entering the vehicle details into LANDATA. Details must not be recorded or entered prior to the inspection. This worksheet is an important document, as it also serves as an audit trail of the vehicles processed.

2 Mandatory and optional attributes

Vehicle attributes can be classified as mandatory, optional or not applicable depending on the type of vehicle.

Table 2-2-1 details which vehicle attributes are mandatory, optional or not applicable for each vehicle type.

All mandatory vehicle attributes must be recorded on the vehicle attribute worksheet before proceeding, with the exception of: test cycle, fuel consumption values, CO2 values and battery information where it is provided on the fuel consumption statement.

Table 2-2-1. Vehicle attribute requirements by vehicle type

1 Vehicle type

Each vehicle type defined for the LANDATA system is represented by a two-digit code that is assigned to the vehicle. Table 2-2-1 describes these vehicle types.

2 Registration indicator

Each registration indicator is represented by code. Table 2-2-2 describes valid registration indicators.

3 Border check date

All used vehicles imported into New Zealand on or after 1 March 1999 must undergo a preliminary border check. This information is then electronically downloaded to LANDATA.

Once the information is downloaded, the date the border check was undertaken by MAF displays in the ‘border check date’ field.

If an exemption from border check requirements is granted, the Lead Specialist, Border Checks, Data Integrity will enter a border check record against the vehicle with a note stating that an exemption has been granted.

4 Date of first New Zealand registration

This is required for vehicles being re-registered only.

It is the date the vehicle was registered for the first time in New Zealand. The ‘VIN allocation’ screen will display this date if it is available.

This information may be changed if there is supporting documentation for an earlier registration in New Zealand. If the date is not displayed, it must be entered based on documentation provided by the vehicle owner.

5 Engine number

If a vehicle has an engine, a complete and correct engine number must be recorded in this field. Where a manufacturer’s engine prefix and serial number is used, this must also be recorded.

If >0<, >OO<, >UNK< or >UNKNOWN< are entered in this field, an error message will appear. The codes to be used when an engine number is not available are set out in Table 2-2-3.

6 Country of previous registration

This is required for used imported vehicles only, and including vehicles that are used unregistered. This field indicates the country that the vehicle was previously registered in. Countries are represented by a three-digit code. Table 2-2-4 lists the available codes representing each country.

7 First registration date (1st reg date)

This is the first date the vehicle was registered in any country. The information may be entered using any of the formats described in Table 2-2-5.

• If registration history is not available for vehicles from Australia the month and year of compliance on the ADR plate or the build date on the RAV public seach must be used as the first registration date.

8 Number of seats

This is the number of seats in the vehicle, including the driver’s seating position.

• If a vehicle owner presents a vehicle converted to a motorhome, completed before 1 October 2003, the entry certifier must request proof, and record details of this evidence in the vehicle notes to assist with future enquiries. See Technical bulletin 24 for information about recording the number of seats in self-propelled motorhomes.

9 Colour

The vehicle colour recorded on LANDATA must be on the defined list of colours (detailed in Table 2-2-6).

There are two types of vehicle colour that may be recorded: basic and secondary.

9.1 Colour – Basic

This is the main colour of the vehicle (refer to Table 2-2-6 for acceptable colours).

9.2 Colour – Secondary

If the vehicle has two colours, the secondary colour is entered in this field (refer to Table 2-2-6 for acceptable colours).

10 Make, model and sub-model

The LANDATA database has a list of vehicle makes and models. When vehicle make and model are entered on the ‘VIN allocation’ screen, they are validated against this list. Sub-model is free text and is not validated. Valid makes and models can be viewed in the MODEL screen. Use >NEX<, >BAC< and >INQ< in the scroll fields to navigate through the list of makes and models. For more information using the screen refer to the Introduction Table 2 for LANDATA navigation commands and the LANDATA Agents’ manual Chapter 8, page 8-B-18 for using the model screen.

To keep the number of models at a manageable level, a high level of definition is used for the model. For example:

• Make: Mitsubishi
• Model: V3000
• Sub-model: Super Saloon.

Adding a make to LANDATA

Email requests to add makes to frr@nzta.govt.nz. Please include the make, the number of vehicles they expect manufacturer or import year, the contact details of the manufacturer or importer and the model(s). Adding makes does take some time due to their impact on other systems, please allow some time for these to be added.

Make on LANDATA for one-off vehicles

In some cases, generally individual vehicles adding a make to LANDATA may not be appropriate. In such cases, the relevant default make (see table below) should be used. The actual make and model should be keyed into the model and sub-model fields.

Adding models to LANDATA

Notify the contact centre via phone, fax or email. Well-known or self-evident examples of models can be entered quite quickly, but occasionally the contact centre will make some checks – so if the vehicle is obscure and there is available documentation, please include this to speed up the process.

Default makes for low volume vehicles

Determining a vehicle’s make, model and sub-model

Maker, in relation to a vehicle, means the name given for market identification purposes to a group or groups of vehicles by a company or organisation that owns that name.

The make, model and sub-model must be that originally given by the manufacturer to the vehicle and must not be changed.

Examples:

1. A Honda Crossroad re-badged as a Land Rover Discovery cannot be changed from Honda Crossroad.

2. A Holden Commodore Berlina that is modified to HSV specifications cannot be changed from Holden Commodore Berlina, nor can HSV be added.

Used imports and re-registrations

The make, model and sub-model from the de-registration or previous registration documents must be recorded. Reference material 13 provides translation information for some common Japanese makes.

New vehicles

The make, model and sub-model from the manufacturers’ documentation must be recorded. Most New Zealand new light vehicles certified since 1996 will have a model code recorded and the description in these model codes must be used. The contact centre can provide model code data if required for these vehicles.

Scratch-built light vehicles

The make of a vehicle that donated parts cannot be used, except for replicas. For replicas, the make of the vehicle being copied must not be recorded in the make field – it may be used in the model or sub-model field for replicas if preceded by the word ‘REPLICA’.

Some low volume vehicle manufacturers have their make recognised in LANDATA (eg T-CAR, FRASER, ALMAC). If in LANDATA use the manufacturers make not LVV.

Examples:

1. Make: >LVV< Model: >REPLICA< Sub-model >MG<

2. Make: >LVV< Model: >CUSTOM< Sub-model >TRIKE<

Do not enter a year in the model or sub-model field.

Some used import scratch-built vehicles will have registration documents that use the year, make and model of the vehicle they are replicating, for example, recently constructed hotrods built in the US are often registered as 1930s Fords. When this occurs, use the New Zealand scratch-built requirements, not the year make and model shown on the overseas paperwork.

Scratch-built heavy vehicles

The name of the chassis manufacturer must be recorded.

11 Industry model code

This field contains a 20-character alphanumeric code that must be recorded in the VIN screen for all used vehicles where the previous country of registration is Japan.

If no industry model code is available, record ‘NONE’ in this field.

For all other vehicles, the industry model code must be recorded if it is available.

12 Variant

This field contains a four-character numeric code that describes the characteristics of the vehicle. It must be recorded for all used vehicles where the previous country of registration is Japan.

If the variant is not available on the de-registration or export certificate, enter the code ‘9999’ in the variant field.

13 Vehicle year

This is a mandatory field that must record the year of first registration anywhere.

• If registration history is not available for vehicles from Australia the month and year of compliance on the ADR plate must be used as the vehicle year.

13.1 Used vehicles being registered or re-registered in New Zealand

Enter the year of first registration.

Where the year of first registration is genuinely unavailable, the year of manufacture or the model year is to be entered. Examples of this are:

• vehicles previously registered in the US
• vintage vehicles where registration documents are not available
• vehicles previously registered in more than one country.

In such cases, the VIN decode is an acceptable method of determining the year of manufacture or model year.

13.2 Used unregistered vehicles

For vehicles that have been used unregistered , demonstrators), ask the owner when they plan to register the vehicle and enter this year in the vehicle year field; the previous country field should be entered as UUR.

13.3 New and scratch-built vehicles

Enter the model year or year of manufacture. When the vehicle is registered, it will be over-written with the registration year. The overwritten data will be stored but can only be accessed by NZTA.

• If a vehicle meets the definition of scratchbuilt, but the registration documents describe the vehicle as production or modified production, complete the fields using the rules that apply for a scratchbuilt vehicle – not what is shown on the registration documents.

14 Vehicle and body types

Table 2-2-8 outlines all valid vehicle and body type combinations.

14.1 Vehicle type

This field contains a two-character numeric code that describes the vehicle type.

14.2 Body type

This field contains a two-character alpha code that describes the body type.

15 Imported left-hand drive

This field must be set to >Y< (Yes) or >N< (No) to indicate whether or not the vehicle is a left-hand drive vehicle (at the time of inspection).

16 Gross vehicle mass (GVM)

In kilograms.  Also called gross laden weight (GLW).

GVM is mandatory for:

• All MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2, and NA class vehicles with petrol, diesel, LPG, or CNG engines and manufactured on or after 1 January 2000, except for special interest vehicles, motorsport vehicles or immigrants' vehicles.
• All heavy vehicles.

For heavy vehicles as rated by the vehicle manufacturer, modifier, NZTA or an NZTA-appointed certifier.

For used light vehicles, a figure from the previous registration or de-registration documents, or from the vehicle manufacturer’s data, may be used. For light vehicles from Australia GVM figures from RVCS may be used and for class MA vehicles the GVM figures found in Redbook may be used (Redbook figures may only be used for class MA vehicles as the GVM may not be available in RVCS).

Note: If no GVM is recorded for a vehicle imported from Australia, but previously registered in Japan, please use the following formula:

• 55kg (weight of passenger) x number passengers + unladen weight (tare) = GVM

For new light vehicles the manufacturer's data may be used.

For vehicles that have undergone a multi-stage manufacturing process, the GVM to be recorded is the GVM assigned by the final stage manufacturer.

For used light vehicles where previous registration documents indicate the GVM may exceed 3,500kg, an official New Zealand chassis rating must be obtained (refer to Reference material 37 for chassis rating request forms).

17 CC rating

This field indicates the vehicle’s engine capacity in cubic centimeters (cc).  If the vehicle is an electric hybrid record the CC rating of the non-electric on-board motor.

This field is not enterable for engine types Electric (code 05), Electric hydrogen fuel cell (code 15) and Electric other fuel cell (code 16) and will display as blank or zero.

Where documents do not fully record the cc rating, such as Japanese Export Certificates that show the engine capacity in litres to 2 decimal places, where available use the more accurate information from the likes of the manufacturers plate, or the manufacturers label or the vehicles fuel consumption statement.

18 Engine type

This field contains a two-character numeric code that describes the vehicle’s engine type. Table 2-2-9 outlines all valid engine type codes.

19 Alternative fuel

This field contains a two-character code that describes what powers the vehicle’s alternative fuel system, if it has one fitted. Do not enter an alternative fuel where electricity or hydrogen in used.

• The code >03< must be entered if the alternative fuel system is powered by CNG.
• The code >04< must be entered if the alternative fuel system is powered by LPG.

20 Assembly type

This field, along with the country of origin, defines where the vehicle was manufactured and assembled.

Table 2-2-10 outlines valid codes used to describe assembly type.

21 Odometer reading

This field contains the odometer reading at the time of the inspection, to the nearest whole number. It does not include a decimal point or fraction of a mile or kilometre.

This field may be blank only if >N< is recorded in the odometer units field.

If the entry certifier finds an odometer reading already recorded in LANDATA that is believed to be incorrect, the entry certifier must fax a copy of the vehicle attributes checksheet and any other official inspection documents (shipping and auction/sales documents are not appropriate) showing the odometer reading in the previous country of registration to: NZ Transport Agency, Permitting Assessments, Border Checks, email BorderChecks@nzta.govt.nz, or fax (06) 953 6267 .

NZTA will compare the reading with records. If this shows that the reading has been incorrectly keyed, NZTA will amend the reading. If the border inspection records do not show a keying error, but the paperwork provided proves an error has occurred, NZTA will arrange for the border check odometer reading to be inactivated.

If the entry certifier suspects the odometer has been tampered with (eg the odometer reading at the time of entry inspection is less than that recorded during the border check), the entry certifier must:

1. note that the odometer reading is suspect on the attributes checksheet and on the vehicle record in LANDATA
2. provide the vehicle owner with written notice of the discrepancy
3. forward the vehicle details to the New Zealand Police. A form is provided in Reference material 34
4. record the details of the Police contact (station and officer) the file was sent to.

22 Odometer units

This field contains an alpha code that describes the unit of measurement that the vehicle’s odometer uses. Valid odometer unit codes are outlined in Table 2-2-11.

23 Vehicle class

This field contains a code which describes the vehicle class, as defined in the VIRM: Entry certification, Introduction Vehicle equipment standards classifications.

• refer to Technical bulletin 3 for guidance when determining the vehicle class for a modified vehicle.

24 Number of axles

This field describes the number of axles the vehicle has.

25 Country of origin

This field describes the country where the vehicle (or kit) was principally manufactured. For example, the country of origin recorded for a vehicle assembled in New Zealand from a Japanese CKD kit should be Japan. Refer to Table 2-2-4 for LANDATA codes representing countries.

26 Test regime

The vehicle exhaust emissions standard to which the vehicle has been tested. See Technical bulletin 28: Exhaust emissions standard compliance and 11-2 Exhaust emissions for further information on determining exhaust emissions compliance.

Codes to be used

• For vehicles imported from Japan where the industry model code has a 1 to 3 character pre-fix the test regime will be the letter ‘J’, followed by the 1–3 character prefix of the industry model code recorded on the de-registration or export certificate.
• For vehicles imported from countries other than Japan or from Japan but without the prefix on the industry model code the appropriate test regime code must be used for the exhaust emissions standard recorded on the proof of standards compliance documentation. See Table 2-2-13 for codes to be used.

Where a class MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2 and NA vehicle must meet an emissions standard, the test regime from Fuelsaver must be always used. Fuelsaver will auto populate the test regime in the VCASS screen. Make sure that the test regime from the completed Fuel consumption statement is entered in the VCASS screen.

If the test regime code is not recognised by LANDATA (error 60803 Emission Standard (Test Regime) is not valid), email vehicleemissions@nzta.govt.nz and include a copy of the documentation for emissions.

27 Fuel consumption information and vehicle efficiency and emission data

Fuel consumption and CO₂ is mandatory for all MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2, and NA class vehicles with an engine type of 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14  and a GVM of not more than 3,500kg, except for re-registrations, special interest vehicles, motorsport vehicles, scratchbuilt vehicles or any vehicle manufactured 40 years or more before the date of first New Zealand entry certification.

Battery range and efficiency is mandatory for all MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2, and NA class vehicles with an engine type of 5, 11, 12, 13, or 14, except for re-registrations, special interest vehicles, motorsport vehicles, scratchbuilt vehicles or any vehicle manufactured 40 years or more before the date of first New Zealand entry certification.

All fuel consumption, CO₂ and battery values come from the Fuelsaver website onto the VCAAS screen. This screen is accessed using the View emissions and FC button on the VIN screen.

Check fuel consumption statements

Valid fuel consumption statements will be marked 'PUBLISHED'. Only published statements can be accepted. These must be checked against the vehicle and its paperwork.

The following must be checked: VIN, chassis, previous country, make, model and submodel, industrial model code (Note 1) and variant, CC rating, engine type, test regime, tare (Note 2), class, registration indicator (N/U/R/S) and any documents attached to the statement, such as Statements of Compliance or Certificate of Conformity (Note 3).

If there is mismatch between certification paperwork/data and the data on the published statement (except for Engine type if engine is a 'mild hybrid' - see Table 2-2-9), the vehicle cannot be certified, the correct information must be entered into the Fuelsaver system and a new Statement obtained (and VCAAS updated). Refer to the Fuelsaver website on creating, updating or obtaining statements. The VIN screen must be updated for any errors.

If errors are found after the Compliance Indicator flag is set to Yes in any of the fields listed above to be checked, you will not be able to update the Fuelsaver system. Updates to LANDATA fields alone will not always correct the Clean Car Standard credits/charges for the CO₂ Account ID holder.  Please email these corrections to fuelconsumption@nzta.govt.nz and include documentation for the change (such as a Japanese Export Certificate).

• If a fuel consumption statement was issued on or before 30 January 2022 the VCAAS screen will be blank. Go to Fuelsaver and use the reprint/publish function. This will send the data to VCAAS.

Fuel consumption attributes definitions/descriptions

• Test cycle – is the test cycle the vehicle was tested on for Fuel Consumption and CO₂ Emissions. The correct value should be driven from the Fuelsaver system. Otherwise selectable value descriptions are in the table below.

• FC Urban is the fuel consumption (in L/100km) for the Urban phase of the NEDC test cycle or the City Phase of the CAFE test cycle. This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC Ext. urban is the fuel consumption (in L/100km) for the Extra-Urban phase of the NEDC test cycle or the Highway phase of the CAFe test cycle. This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC Low is the fuel consumption information (in L/100km) for the Low phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in Landata by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC Medium is the fuel consumption information (in L/100km) for the Medium phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in Landata by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC High is the fuel consumption information (in L/100km) for the high phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in Landata by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC Extra-high is the fuel consumption information (in L/100km) for the extra-high phase of WLTP (Note this is only available for 4pWLTP tested vehicles). This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system.
• FC Combined is the combined fuel consumption calculated from the individual phases of the WLTP test cycle.
• CO2 Low is the CO₂ emissions (in g/km) for the low phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system if data is available.
• CO2 Medium is the CO₂ emissions (in g/km) for the medium phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system if data is available
• CO2 High is the CO₂ emissions (in g/km) for the high phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in LANDATA by the Fuelsaver system if data is available
• CO2 Extra-high is the CO₂ emissions (in g/km) for the extra-high phase of WLTP. This will be auto populated in Landata by the Fuelsaver system if data is available
• CO2 Combined is the combined CO₂ from the emissions test cycle. CO₂ combined is required for all test cycles and will be auto populated from Fuelsaver.
• CO2 3PWLTP is the calculated CO₂ value that will be used for the clean car system. It is based on the CO₂ information below and will be auto populated by the Fuelsaver system.
• Battery range is the manufacturer's stated electric only range based on one of the test cycles above. Battery range should be provided if available and may be auto populated from Fuelsaver or manually entered in LANDATA. Battery range may only be entered for vehicles external electric charging.
• Battery efficiency the manufacturer's stated vehicle efficiency in Watt hours per km (Wh/km) based on one of the test cycles above. Battery efficiency should be provided if available and may be auto populated from Fuelsaver or manually entered in LANDATA. Battery efficiency may only be entered for vehicles external electric charging.

28 A/C fitted

This field indicates if an air conditioning unit is fitted to a vehicle. If a vehicle has an air conditioning unit fitted >Y< must be entered. If a vehicle has no air conditioning unit fitted enter >N<.

29 Gas type

This field contains a three character code which describes the gas type used in the air conditioning unit. Refer to Table 2-2-12 for LANDATA codes for gas types.

• LANDATA will use this information to determine if, on first registration in New Zealand, a Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (SGG) levy will be collected. It will also be used to track changes in the use of SGGs in the NZ vehicle fleet.
• If the vehicle has an air conditioning unit fitted the type of gas used must be recorded, inspect the vehicle to obtain the type of gas used.
• “unknown" can only be used where the unit is not labelled with the gas type, or for re-registration (see Note 4).

30 Frontal impact standards

This field indicates whether or not the vehicle has been manufactured to a recognised frontal impact standard. If a vehicle has been manufactured to an approved frontal impact standard, >Y< must be recorded in this field. If the vehicle was not manufactured to an approved frontal impact standard, or is exempt from frontal impact standard requirements, >N< must be recorded in this field.

See Vehicle structure 3-2 Determining frontal impact compliance for information on determining whether a vehicle complies with an approved frontal impact standard.

31 Special permit codes

There are several special permit codes that may be recorded against a vehicle. If the vehicle is a left-hand drive vehicle, the appropriate code must be recorded in the first ‘special permit code’ field (see Table 5-3-1 for valid special permit codes for left-hand drive vehicles). Other special permit codes include:

• IM – Immigrants Vehicle
• MS – Motorsport vehicle
• SP – Special interest vehicle
• DV - Disability vehicle as defined in the Land Transport (Clean Vehicle Standard) Regulations 2022.

Disability vehicle means a light vehicle that is used for the transportation of a person with a disability and:

• is modified to enable a person seated in a wheelchair to safely enter and exit the vehicle, and
• is modified to enable the person and the wheelchair to be safely restrained while the vehicle is moving, and
• has been inspected and approved as a disability vehicle by a person appointed under clause 2.2(1)(d) and (e) of the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002

Note: a different definition of disability vehicle is used for determining vehicle exhaust emissions standards compliance. See to Definitions and abbreviations for this definition.

A disability vehicle permit may be entered into the system by either the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association at the time of modification certification, or by the entry certifier.

The DV code must be keyed before or at the time the vehicle is entry certified - that is, the compliance indicator is set to Yes.

If a disability vehicle does not require LVV certification or has overseas certification (as acceptable in Technical bulletin 41) please record in Notes: 'disability vehicle, factory fitted'.

If a vehicle does not meet the disability vehicle requirements and the customer wishes to query this, they should email fuelconsumption@nzta.govt.nz and include photos of the disability modification and evidence of the disability (such as ACC funding documents).

32 Tare weight

In kilograms. Also known as unladen weight.

This is mandatory for all MA, MB, MC, NA, NB, NC, MD1, MD2, MD3, MD4, and ME Class vehicles except those entered into LANDATA prior to 9/1/2005.

For all vehicles requiring fuel consumption, efficiency and emissions data

These are all new and used class MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2, and NA class vehicles with a GVM of not more than 3,500kg, except for re-registrations, special interest vehicles, motorsport vehicles, scratchbuilt vehicles or any vehicle manufactured 40 years or more before the date of first New Zealand entry certification.

Note: The fuel consumption statement contains 2 tare weights.  The VEED tare is a calculation value determined by schedule 3 of the Vehicle Efficiency and Emissions Data Rule and is recorded on the VCAAS screen.  It can only be updated using Fuelsaver.

For all other vehicles

Tare refers to the weight of the vehicle together with the fuel in the fuel system (if any) and the equipment and accessories on it that are necessary for its operation for the purpose for which it was designed.

If tare weight is not recorded on the vehicle documentation, this must be obtained from a weighbridge, or alternative documents such as: the vehicle handbook/manual, the manufacturer's label on the vehicle, from the manufacturer's website, from the vehicle manufacturer or manufacturer's representative or from Government regulatory websites.

33 Certifier ID

This field contains the identification code of the approved vehicle inspector certifying that the vehicle complies with relevant NZTA acts, regulations and rules for entry certification. The certifier ID must only be entered when the vehicle passes entry-level certification and the Compliance Ind flag is set to Yes.

34 Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (SGG) levy on motor vehicles

A Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (SGG) levy is collected when a new or used motor vehicle is first registered in New Zealand. The SGG levy does not apply to vehicles being re-registered (Note 4). SGGs are refrigerants used in air-conditioning systems of motor vehicles. They have very high global warming potentials and impact on climate change.

By placing an added cost on SGGs, the government aims to encourage industry to use alternative low global-warming refrigerants, which don’t impact on climate change.

The process requires vehicle information to be captured and recorded in the NZTA LANDATA system during entry certification. The data recorded confirms whether a vehicle has an air-conditioning unit and if so, what refrigerant the unit is gassed with.

LANDATA will use this information to automatically charge the levy with the registration fee when the vehicle is registered. This is similar to how an ACC levy is collected with a motor vehicle licence.

Step One:

Inspect the vehicle to see if it has an air conditioning system fitted to it.

Step two:

If the vehicle has an air conditioning system fitted to it, record on the check sheet the type of refrigerant that is used in the air conditioning system.

Step three:

Record in LANDATA if the vehicle has air conditioning YES/NO and if yes, select from the drop down list the type of refrigerant that is used in the air conditioning system

35 Reference field

Site Authorisation Number where the inspection is being conducted.

36 Compliance Ind

This field indicates that entry certification requirements have been met. It does not include in-service certification requirements.

37 Co2 Acct ID

This field contains the Clean Vehicles Standard Carbon Dioxide Account ID of the importer (as defined in Part 13 of the Land Transport Act 1998).

This is mandatory from 1 December 2022 for class MA, MB, MC, MD1, MD2, and NA vehicles that have a GVM of 3500kg or less (except those excluded below) when the Compliance Ind flag is set to yes. It is preferred that this field is populated using the fuel consumption statement function. The field cannot be changed once the importer has accepted the vehicle in the Clean Car Standard System.  The importer will need to change the CO₂ account ID in the Clean Car Standard System, this will update the field in LANDATA.

Note: the following vehicles are excluded from the Clean Car Standard and do not need a CO₂ account:

• vehicles with a Special Permit code of ‘SP’ (Special interest vehicle), or
• vehicles with a manufactured date of 40 years or more before the date of entry certification, or
• vehicles with a registration type ‘S’ (Low Volume Vehicle - Scratch-built), or
• vehicles with a registration type ‘R’ (re-registrations of vehicles previously registered in NZ. This does not include vehicles recorded on LANDATA as ‘Overseas Visitors Vehicles’, these can be identified by the transaction type of MR2C in TRANLOG and no entry certification recorded), or
• vehicles with a special permit code ‘MS’ (motorsport vehicle), or
• vehicles first certified for entry prior to 1 December 2022, where the vehicle was not registered within 2 years of entry certification and entry certification has lapsed, or
• vehicles with special permit codes of ‘DV’ (disability vehicle).  Refer to 31 Special permit codes above.

Note 1

Industry model codes sometimes apply to more than one model name, if this occurs on the statement use the appropriate model.

Note 2

The fuel consumption statement will contain data for tare and VEED tare, check the tare only.  VEED tare is a calculated weight required by Schedule 3 of the Vehicle Efficiency and Emissions Rule.

Note 3

An EC Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued by the vehicle manufacturer for individual passenger cars that have undergone European Commission Whole Vehicle Type Approval (EC WVTA). The CoC is linked to the EC Whole Vehicle Approval Plate – if a vehicle has a CoC, it will also have a Whole Vehicle Approval Plate. A sample CoC is shown in Reference Material 49. The fuel consumption information is recorded in item 46.2 of the CoC.

If both NEDC and WLTP values are listed on the CoC, you must use the WLTP values.

Note 4

When a vehicle (with air conditioning fitted) is presented for re-registration enter into LANDATA:

• Air conditioning – Yes
• Type of gas - Unknown.

Table 2-2-1. LANDATA-defined vehicle types

¹ Not subject to VIN requirements.

² Does not include ATVs.

³ If used without restriction, an ATV must be classified as a passenger car or goods vehicle and must comply with all the requirements for those classes.

⁴ Because vehicles are defined by class in vehicle standard regulations and rules but not in other legislation, some class LE1 motor tricycles may be registered as a type 07 ‘motorcar’, and some may be registered as type 11 ‘motorcycle’.

Table 2-2-2. Valid registration indicators

Code	Indicator	Description
N	2-3 Amending vehicle attributes or status The status of a vehicle or the attributes recorded against it may be changed at any time after the vehicle record is created. There are two reasons to amend vehicle details: 1. to correct a data entry error 2. to reflect a modification to the vehicle. When correcting data entry errors, the file must be checked before changes are made and a record of the correct data must be held in the vehicle file. When amending vehicle attributes or status due to vehicle modifications, the vehicle and documentation must be checked to ensure certification requirements are met (Note 1). 1 VIN screen The system will allow changes to be made at any time before the MR2A is printed. Some managers and staff have a higher level of access and can make changes after the MR2A has been printed. Where those staff members are unavailable, requests to make changes should be emailed to the Permitting Assessments team at frr@nzta.govt.nz or faxed to 06 953 6267. The request must be supported with documentation (eg if a registration date was keyed incorrectly, a copy of the de-registration certificate should be supplied with the request). 1.1 ICORE and ILOAD screen – CoF vehicles If the vehicle requires a CoF, changes may also be made on CoF screens, provided the entry certifier has the appropriate CoF authority for the vehicle. Changes to the vehicle type field can only be made by entry-level inspectors. 1.2 IVATT screen – WoF vehicles If the vehicle requires a WoF, changes may also be made on WoF screens, provided the entry certifier has the appropriate WoF authority for the vehicle. Changes to the vehicle type field can only be made by entry-level inspectors. 1.3 Documenting changes 1. Corrections to data entry errors will be covered by data held in the entry certification file. 2. Changes due to modifications for CoF vehicles should be carried out in accordance with CoF procedures. 3. Changes due to modification for WoF vehicles should be recorded: a) in the IVCERT screen if low volume vehicle (LVV) certification has been issued, or b) in NOTES if the vehicle does not require LVV certification. 2 Removing the border check damage flag A damaged flag may be recorded against a vehicle by a border inspection organisation performing the border check. See Technical bulletin 36 Removing a border damage flag. 2.1 Light vehicles If a vehicle is flagged on LANDATA by a border inspection organisation as damaged and the vehicle inspector determines that the damage does not exceed the threshold for requiring repair certification, an application must be made to remove the damage flag. Forms to request the removal of a border damage flag are available in Reference material 17. The vehicle inspector must complete this form and give it to the supervisor authorised to remove damage flags. Reference material 17. 2.2 Heavy vehicles Once appropriate heavy vehicle specialist certification has been carried out as required, the border damage flag must be removed from a heavy motor vehicle. An entry certifier must complete a ‘Request to remove border damage flag’ form (see Reference material 17) and give it to the supervisor authorised to remove damage flags. Reference material 17. Note 1 Inspection and certification 1-6-1(2) lists the certification requirements for modified vehicles. 3 VIN assignment 3-1 Assigning a VIN 3-2 Assigning a VIN to a registered vehicle 3-3 Assigning a VIN to a low volume vehicle 3-1 Assigning a VIN All vehicles first registered or re-registered in New Zealand on or after 1 April 1994 must have a vehicle identification number (VIN) assigned and affixed. Under Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002, the VIN must be assigned and affixed as soon as practicable. A VIN must be: assigned to a vehicle before any compliance work is carried out on the vehicle, and affixed to the vehicle before the initial compliance inspection is completed. An entry certifier may assign and affix a VIN while documentation is pending, but must make a note of this on the notes screen to ensure that it is subsequently obtained and verified. In cases where a particular entry-level inspector is only carrying out the VIN assignment process, the VIN must be affixed immediately. A vehicle may have an original VIN assigned by the manufacturer, or it may need to have an NZTA ‘7AT’ VIN assigned to it. When a vehicle record is retrieved from the database and the details are displayed on the screen, the entry certifier must check these details to ensure they match the vehicle presented. Scratchbuilt vehicles with used donor parts from high volume production vehicles (eg Ford, Holden, Range Rover) should not be assigned any high volume VIN from the donor parts. 1 Determining VIN requirements To determine whether or not the identifier located on the vehicle is a valid VIN, type the identifier into the escape field of the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen and transmit. 1.1 Valid VIN If the identifier entered in the escape field of the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen is a valid VIN, the ‘VIN allocation’ screen will display with message ‘Valid VIN entered’. The identifier will display in the VIN field. The entry certifier must check, correct and complete all vehicle details required for the vehicle type. If there is a substantial difference (Note 1) in any of the vehicle attributes listed below between the vehicle attributes displayed and the actual vehicle presented, complete a VIN approval request form (CA01). Make Fuel type Year of manufacture Model Vehicle type Year of first registration Submodel     Do not alter the displayed vehicle details without approval from Waka Kotahi. Contact NZTA on 0800 804 580 and select option 4 - inspections. 1.2 17-character identifier not recognised by LANDATA If the identifier entered in the escape field of the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen is a 17-character identifier that LANDATA cannot decode, the ‘VIN allocation’ screen will display the message ‘WARNING VIN does not decode – Contact TRC’. Some invalid VINs may be difficult to identify, as they look like a VIN and have the correct vehicle year recorded as the tenth character and a valid check digit as the ninth character. However, the world manufacturer identifier (WMI) belongs to someone other than the vehicle manufacturer. This problem is not identified until the VIN decode is investigated in detail. In such cases, the Permitting Assessments team may ask the importer to provide VIN decode information, and may advise that a ‘7AT’ VIN be issued following investigation. Do not continue. Please refer all 17-digit numbers that do not decode to Waka Kotahi (contact 0800 804 580). If you have the manufacturer's VIN decode information available email it directly to vindecode@nzta.govt.nz 1.3 Other If an identifier was not entered, or if the identifier entered in the escape field of the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen is not a valid VIN, the ‘VIN allocation’ screen will display the message ‘Chassis number entered’. LANDATA will assign a ‘7AT’ VIN to the vehicle. Most Japanese imports require a new VIN to be assigned. 2 Checking vehicle details Once a VIN has been recognised or assigned to the vehicle and the vehicle details are displayed on the ‘VIN allocation’ screen, the entry certifier must ensure that the vehicle details that are mandatory for the vehicle type are correct and complete. If no vehicle details are displayed, the vehicle attributes recorded on the vehicle attributes checksheet must be entered. When all mandatory vehicle attributes are correct and complete, the entry certifier must ensure the following fields are set as explained below. Field Should be set to … Certifier ID Blank; it is not applicable to the VIN assignment process. Nothing should be entered in this field until the vehicle has passed the entry-level inspection and certification process and the MR2A is to be printed. Print MR2A or VALOC screen >Y< only to provide a VIN checksheet, if a VIN plate is required to be affixed to the vehicle. An MR2A printed at this stage must not be used as a registration document. Its sole purpose is to provide printed details of the vehicle and the VIN that has been assigned to it. Notes: You don’t have to print on an MR2A form, plain paper is acceptable. The VALOC (VIN attributes) screen can be printed and used as a VIN check sheet. Approved for registration? >N<. The vehicle has not been approved for registration. 3 System validation Transmit once all fields have been completed as above. LANDATA will validate the data entered and redisplay the ‘VIN allocation’ screen with the vehicle’s VIN displayed in the VIN field. The system will display an error message at the bottom of the screen if any data entry errors were made (eg an invalid country or vehicle model). Correct errors and transmit. Note 1 Substantial difference means a variation that cannot be satisfactorily explained. Page updated 13 July 2025 (see details). 3-2 Assigning a VIN to a registered vehicle Most vehicle types are required to have a VIN if they are registered or re-registered in New Zealand on or after 1 April 1994. Vehicles that were registered in New Zealand before this date and have their original chassis identification attached are not required to have a VIN affixed. However, a VIN may be affixed at the vehicle owner’s request. If a vehicle does not have any identifiers (ie a VIN or chassis number), it is required to have a VIN assigned and affixed before its next warrant of fitness inspection. Most motor vehicles have had some form of chassis number assigned to them. Where chassis numbers or VINs are missing or where the LANDATA chassis number does not match the actual chassis number, the vehicle may have been stolen or involved in a major accident at some point in its life. Because of this, you are required to: complete a VIN approval request form (CA01)  email a copy to assessments@nzta.govt.nz Before assigning the VIN, the entry certifier must inspect the vehicle and record its attributes on a vehicle attributes worksheet. This worksheet must be retained for a minimum of two years. The VIN must be assigned to a registered vehicle using the ‘vehicle details by plate’ screen. The following process outlines how to assign a VIN to a registered vehicle. Step Action 1 Type >DETAILP (space) (plate number)< in the escape field and transmit. The ‘vehicle details by plate’ screen displays details for the plate number entered. 2 Is a chassis number displayed? NO Contact NZTA on 0800 804 580 for assistance. YES Note the chassis number and continue from step 3. 3 Type >VINASGN (space) (chassis number)< in the escape field and transmit. The system will search for vehicle records with that chassis number. 4 Is more than one vehicle record displayed? YES The ‘assign VIN to a registered vehicle’ screen displays with a list of vehicles with that chassis number. Use scroll commands to find the correct record if required. Type >X< in the select field alongside the correct record and transmit. The ‘assign VIN to registered vehicle’ screen will display the vehicle details. Continue from step 5. NO The ‘assign VIN to a registered vehicle’ screen displays with the vehicle details. 5 Are the displayed details correct? YES Continue from step 6. NO If you have you entered the correct plate and/or chassis number, contact the Transport Agency on 0800 804 580. If you have selected the wrong vehicle record, type >R< in the escape field and transmit to return to the previous screen. Enter the correct chassis number and continue from step 4. 6 Do you want to print an MR2A VIN checksheet? YES Transmit. The message ‘Vehicle has been assigned a VIN’ displays at the top of the screen with a VIN in the VIN field. NO Type >N< in the print MR2A field and transmit. The message ‘Vehicle has been assigned a VIN’ displays at the top of the screen with a VIN in the VIN field. 7 Affix the VIN. Refer to Pre-registration and VIN 4-1 Page amended 1 October 2022 (see amendment details). 3-3 Assigning a VIN to a low volume vehicle Many manufacturers who make vehicles in small quantities (ie fewer than 500 per year) do not have the authority to issue VINs. These manufacturers must obtain a VIN for each vehicle they make from an entry certifier. The entry certifier then stamps the VIN directly on to a nominated structural part of the vehicle. However, some low volume vehicle manufacturers do have the necessary authority to assign and affix a VIN, so will not have to go through this process. These VINs will all start with ‘7A9’, '6Y9', or '6Z9'. 1 Application for VIN assignment A low volume vehicle manufacturer must complete a vehicle attributes worksheet, similar to the sheet used by entry certifiers. This describes the vehicle that is being (or will be) manufactured. This worksheet comprises two parts that describe the attributes required based on the vehicle type. The vehicle attributes worksheet is submitted with an application for a VIN. If the vehicle is covered by the Low Volume Vehicle Code, the application must be endorsed by one of the organisations belonging to the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA), which is responsible for checking that the vehicle is built in accordance with the requirements of the Low Volume Vehicle Code. Particular care is required for the recording of make, model and year of manufacture attributes. The completed and endorsed application must be presented to an entry certifier for the assignment of a VIN. If the vehicle attributes worksheet is not complete in any way, the application must be rejected. Vehicle attributes must be entered into LANDATA as described in Pre-registration and VIN 3-1 and Pre-registration and VIN 3-2, with the exception of the ‘print MR2A checksheet’ field. This field must be set to >Y< to print a VIN checksheet that is used to notify the vehicle manufacturer of the assigned VIN. It is not to be used as a registration document. The system will print an MR2A checksheet displaying: the vehicle details, and the VIN assigned to the vehicle, and the words ‘Affix this VIN to vehicle with chassis number XXXXXX’. Attach the MR2A to one copy of the vehicle attributes worksheet and send it to the vehicle manufacturer. Retain the other copy of the vehicle attributes worksheet for future reference. The documents should be filed so that they can be easily retrieved. Page updated 20 July 2020 (see details) 4 VIN affixing 4-1 Methods for affixing a VIN 4-2 Repairing incorrectly affixed VINs 4-3 Damaged or missing VINs 4-1 Methods for affixing a VIN If the vehicle being processed requires a new VIN to be affixed, the MR2A checksheet is printed with the required information. This must be used as a checksheet to ensure that the VIN is affixed to the correct vehicle. The VIN must be assigned and affixed at the same location as the computer and VIN embossing equipment are sited. Application of VINs at offsites Authority will be given to all approved Entry Certification sites to assign and affix VINs at a location different from the approved site based on the following conditions: All VIN procedures as documented in the VIRM must be followed The VIN allocation procedure must be started and completed at the same location and at the same time The agent will by necessity have a VIN embossing machine at the location of the VIN allocation. The embosser maybe transported from location to location but must remain secure at all times In addition to the embosser, the process must be undertaken using a secure computer with approved access to Landata, and an approved MR2A printer The agent will advise the NZTA Provider Compliance team in writing of any location they wish to use for applying VINs All vehicles which have the VIN applied, ‘offsite’ will have the fact recorded in ‘NOTES’ The person applying the VIN must be employed solely by an entry certifier unless prior written approval is given by the Transport Agency Any transactions undertaken in contravention of these conditions will result in approval for the use of this procedure being withdrawn from the offending agent. The VIN must be located on a non-removable structural part of the vehicle, in a position that it can be easily read. The VIN must not obscure an existing chassis number when it is affixed. Table 4-1-1 describes permitted locations for a VIN to be affixed to a vehicle. There are two methods for affixing a VIN to a vehicle: For cars, vans, trucks and buses without a separate chassis, the VIN is embossed on a plate and affixed to the vehicle in a location described in Table 4-1-1. For motorcycles, mopeds, trucks, buses with a separate chassis and heavy trailers, the VIN is stamped directly onto the chassis in a location described in Table 4-1-1. If it is physically difficult to stamp a VIN in the specified location (eg the material is unable to be adequately stamped), a VIN plate may be affixed in the location that stamping would normally be carried out. If this is not possible, contact the NZTA to obtain agreement on the position and/or method of affixing the VIN. Quality assurance (QA) controls The VIN that is affixed to the vehicle is the key to identifying that vehicle on LANDATA. Therefore, in order to minimise the risk of errors when affixing the VIN, the procedures for affixing a VIN require two people to be involved: one person who is responsible for affixing the VIN another person who is responsible for checking that the correct VIN has been affixed. This person is the QA controller. Where a site has only a single NZTA appointed entry certifier, a KSDP can nominate a person to act as the QA controller in checking the VIN. The nominated person must be an employee of site. That person must be identified on the KSDP’s delegation record. 1 VIN plate When affixing a VIN plate to a vehicle, print an MR2A with the vehicle details to use as a VIN checksheet. 1. Emboss the plate with the VIN specified on the VIN checksheet. 2. Check that the embossed VIN matches the VIN detailed on the VIN checksheet. 3. Clean the area of the vehicle where the VIN plate is to be affixed with a suitable solvent or degreaser to remove any grease, silicon-based film or oil-based contaminant. Wipe off with a clean rag. 4. Peel off the adhesive backing strip from the VIN plate and stick the strip to either the VIN checksheet or the vehicle attributes worksheet. 5. Apply the VIN plate to the prepared area using pressure to ensure there are no air bubbles under the plate. 6. Drill two holes into the vehicle to match the rivet holes on the VIN plate, and rivet the plate to the vehicle. 7. Have the QA controller check the embossed VIN against the VIN specified on the VIN checksheet. The QA controller must sign the VIN checksheet to confirm this verification. 2 Stamping a VIN When stamping a VIN directly on to a vehicle, print an MR2A with the vehicle details to use as a VIN checksheet. 1. Stamp the VIN in the appropriate location. 2. Have the QA controller check the stamped VIN against the VIN specified on the VIN checksheet. The QA controller must sign the VIN checksheet to confirm this verification. 3. Spray the VIN with a sealing spray. Table 4-1-1. Permitted locations for a VIN to be affixed to a vehicle (Note: in addition to any of these locations, if the vehicle has a rear windscreen, the VIN must be etched on it as close as practicable to the bottom left corner) Vehicle Permitted VIN locations Passenger car Off-road passenger vehicle that is not forward controlled in the engine compartment on the right-hand side of the firewall in the engine compartment on the right-hand side adjacent to the mounting point of the front suspension in a location inside the engine compartment approved by the NZTA for a specified vehicle or vehicle model on the firewall or inner guards so it is visible from the front of the vehicle on the left "B" pillar below the manufacturer's ID decal (if fitted). Forward-controlled passenger vehicle (van) Off-road vehicle in the passenger compartment, on the top of the right-hand wheel arch, adjacent to the seat cushion in the passenger compartment, on the inner panel of the right-hand ‘A’ pillar, adjacent to where the floor meets the ‘A’ pillar in the passenger compartment, on the ‘B’ pillar (this is less likely to suffer accident damage) under bonnet (if applicable), placed in such a way that it can be viewed from the front of the vehicle, and/or is adjacent to the manufacturer’s plate. Goods vehicle Omnibus Heavy trailer Vehicles with a separate chassis: on the outside of the chassis, adjacent to the right front wheel arch. Vehicles without a separate chassis: in the passenger compartment, on the top of the right-hand wheel arch, adjacent to the seat cushion in the passenger compartment, on the inner panel of the right-hand ‘A’ pillar, adjacent to the where the floor meets the ‘A’ pillar in the passenger compartment, on the ‘B’ pillar (this is less likely to suffer accident damage). Motorcycles Mopeds on the frame under the rider’s seat on a non-removable part of the mainframe in a position where it is visible but not prone to damage. Page amended 10 December 2023 (see amendment details). 4-2 Repairing incorrectly affixed VINs Despite the procedural requirement for a second person (the QA controller) to verify the affixed VIN, it is still possible for errors to occur. Procedures for correcting errors are outlined below. 1 Correcting a VIN plate If an incorrect VIN is affixed to a vehicle, it must be removed and the correct VIN (as printed on the VIN checksheet for that vehicle) must be affixed. Remove the incorrect VIN plate from the vehicle. Make a new plate with the correct VIN. Have the new plate checked by the QA controller. Fix the correct VIN plate to the vehicle. Process the original incorrect VIN plate as required for audit purposes and destruction (the number of VIN plates issued must be checked against LANDATA). 2 Correcting a VIN etched on a rear windscreen If a VIN is etched onto a rear windscreen incorrectly and the owner wants the glass replaced, the windscreen must be replaced at the sole expense of the entry certifier. The correct VIN must then be etched on the new windscreen. However, if the owner of the vehicle is willing to have the VIN corrected on the same windscreen, the incorrect VIN must be masked out and completely over-etched. The correct VIN must then be etched just above or below the original incorrect VIN. 3 Correcting a stamped VIN A maximum of three stamping errors can be corrected by crossing out the individual letters or digits, and by stamping the correct letter or digit just above or below the crossed errors. A hash character (#) must be used to cross out incorrect letters or digits. If a hash character is not available, an ‘X’ or a dollar sign ($) may be used. Example: As an alternative, all letters and digits may be machined out and the entire VIN stamped again. If there are more than three stamping errors, all letters and digits must be crossed out and the entire VIN must be stamped again, just above or below the original incorrect VIN. Example: 4 Recording a VIN correction When a stamped or etched VIN has been corrected, details of the correction must be recorded in the vehicle notes. This is to prevent suspicion arising when the VIN is inspected at a later date. If a VIN plate has been removed and a new one attached in such a way that there is no sign of the correction, this step is not required. The minimum details to be recorded are the number of characters in the VIN that were corrected and the positions of these characters. Example:               VIN corrected in 3 positions: 4, 7, 12 4-3 Damaged or missing VINs Sometimes a vehicle is damaged in such a way that the vehicle identifier is no longer readable. If a vehicle has been damaged so that the VIN is no longer readable, it must have its original VIN affixed by an entry certifier. A new VIN is not assigned. The VIN may be a LANDATA assigned ‘7AT’ VIN, or it may be one assigned by the manufacturer. See Pre-registration and VIN page 1-1(1.3) for more information. If a vehicle that does not have a VIN has been damaged so that the chassis or frame number is no longer readable, it must have a ‘7AT’ VIN assigned and affixed. Procedures for assigning a VIN to a currently registered vehicle are described in section 3-2. 1 Inspection required When a vehicle owner applies to an entry certifier to have a VIN reaffixed or assigned, the vehicle must be inspected by a vehicle inspector authorised to carry out entry certification. The vehicle inspector must complete a ‘VIN approval request’ form: (Reference material 53). All identifiers (VIN, chassis, engine, body and frame numbers) must be recorded and their location and condition noted. What is right with the vehicle and its identifiers is just as important as what is wrong. A VIN must not be affixed or re-affixed to a vehicle until approval from the Transport Agency has been sighted. Once approval is received, the details on the approval document, on the LANDATA system and on the actual vehicle presented must be matched. Table 4-3-1 describes what action must be taken depending on how details match. A tick represents a match between details; a cross represents a difference between details. Table 4-3-1. Matching details when affixing/re-affixing a VIN Vehicle presented LANDATA vehicle record Approval from NZTA Action Affix the VIN to the vehicle. A note, such as ‘VIN plate re-affixed’, must be added to the vehicle record. There may be an error on the approval. Refer the vehicle owner to NZTA. Do not continue. An incorrect VIN has been entered in LANDATA. Type the correct VIN in the VIN/chassis field of the ‘VIN allocation’ screen and transmit. Do not continue to process until approval is obtained from NZTA. Type >C< into the escape field and transmit to cancel the transaction. If there is no VIN recorded for the vehicle in LANDATA, refer to section 3-2 for information on assigning a VIN to a currently registered vehicle. Page amended 1 October 2022 (see amendment details). 5 Left-hand drive vehicles 5-1 Left-hand drive categories 5-2 Document requirements 5-3 Completing the left-hand drive process 5-1 Left-hand drive categories The new left hand drive categories described below apply to vehicles presented for certification after 1 April 2010. A vehicle that is presented for certification after 1 April 2010 that was border checked before 1 April 2010 can be processed using the rules that applied prior to 1 April 2010. A vehicle presented for certification after 1 April 2010 that was border checked after 1 April 2010 maybe eligible to be processed under the old rules. In these cases the owner will need to apply to the vehicles section of the Transport Agency for consideration of their case. Table 5-1-1 describes the only categories under which a left-hand drive vehicle may be registered. Table 5-1-1. Left-hand drive vehicle categories Category Description A Class MA vehicles less than 20 years old: The vehicle must be class MA, and 1. be issued with a Category A left-hand drive vehicle permit by the Transport Agency, and 2. be manufactured in a country other than New Zealand less than 20 years before the vehicle is certified for entry in New Zealand The vehicle must not be operated in a transport service and must be registered in the name of the person who obtained the original Category A LHD permit for a period of 4 years. Requirements that the vehicle must meet: To issue a vehicle with a Category A LHD vehicle permit, the Transport Agency must either deem it to have historic value, or it must be a vehicle that was not manufactured in right-hand drive form that meets three of the following four requirements: The vehicle (or its make, model and submodel) is identified as being a collector’s item in a commercially produced motoring publication The vehicle’s make and model and submodel has been (or was) manufactured in annual volumes of 20,000 units or less The vehicle is, and was manufactured as, a two-door coupe or a convertible The vehicle is, and was manufactured as, a high-performance vehicle. The owner must also comply with the following requirements: Must be a New Zealand citizen or resident Must not have received a Category A LHD vehicle permit during the two years before your application Have the vehicle registered in their name Must prove the other necessary standards for the vehicle year. B Light vehicles that are 20 years old or more: The vehicle must be class MA, MB, MC or NA. Its gross vehicle mass must not exceed 3.5 tonnes, and it must have been manufactured in a country other than New Zealand 20 years or more before the vehicle is certified. The vehicle must not be operated in a transport service. C Specialist vehicles. There are five sub-groups in this category: Category C1: The vehicle must have dual steering columns and controls. Category C2: The vehicle must be used solely or principally as: a) a mobile crane, or b) a vehicle which operates wholly or partly on self-laying tracks, or c) an agricultural tractor or self-propelled agricultural harvesting machine, or d) an earthmoving machine. The Transport Agency must confirm in writing that it is satisfied the operation of the vehicle requires it to be a left-hand drive vehicle or that the vehicle is only available as a left-hand drive vehicle Category C3: The Transport Agency must confirm in writing that it is satisfied that the vehicle has special characteristics, or is equipped for special operational purposes, such that conversion to right-hand drive is impractical. Category C4: The vehicle must be identified as a hearse by the original vehicle manufacturer (eg Ford, General Motors). Category C5: The vehicle must be a class MA or class MC motor vehicle that is used in motor sport competition and is operated in accordance with the conditions of a valid motor sport authority card. D Vehicles operated by diplomats The vehicle must be operated by a person who is, for the time being, entitled to diplomatic immunity from jurisdiction. E Vehicles exempt from registration and licensing The vehicle must be exempt from registration and licensing requirements. F Former crown vehicles The vehicle must be formerly owned by the Crown. G Motorcycles with side cars The motorcycle may have a sidecar fitted to the right-hand side of the motorcycle. 5-2 Document requirements Table 5-2-1 details the documentation requirements for each left-hand drive category. The documentation must be sighted by the entry certifier processing the left-hand drive vehicle. Table 5-2-1. Documentation requirements for left-hand drive vehicles Category Required documentation A See Technical bulletin 33 B Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title), and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name). C Category 1 Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title) or a manufacturer’s completion certificate, and, evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name). Category 2 Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title) or a manufacturer’s completion certificate, and, evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name), and written confirmation from the Transport Agency that it is satisfied the operation of the vehicle requires it to be a left-hand drive vehicle or that the vehicle is only available as a left-hand drive vehicle. Category 3 Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title) or a manufacturer’s completion certificate, and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name), and written confirmation from the Transport Agency writing that it is satisfied that the vehicle has special characteristics, or is equipped for special operational purposes, such that conversion to right-hand drive is impractical. Category 4 Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title) or a manufacturer’s completion certificate, and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name), and written confirmation from the original vehicle manufacturer (eg Ford, General Motors) that the vehicle was manufactured as a hearse. Category 5 Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title) or a manufacturer’s completion certificate, and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg a purchase receipt, bill of sale, or similar in the owner’s name). D Overseas registration papers (pink slip or certificate of title), and a recent letter of accreditation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade stating that the importer has been posted to New Zealand. E Written evidence from the Transport Agency that the vehicle is exempt from registration and licencing requirements, and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg purchase receipt, bill of sale). F Written evidence from a governemnt department that the vehicle was formerly owned by the crown, and evidence of vehicle ownership (eg purchase receipt, bill of sale).. G Evidence of vehicle ownership (eg purchase receipt, bill of sale) Note 1 All documents supplied in support of an application to register a left-hand drive vehicle must be original. Note 2 If the owner is unable to supply the required documents, the vehicle must not be certified. Note 3 Entry certifiers must retain copies of all documentation in their original form for a minimum of two years. If the vehicle owner requests that original documents be returned to them, verified copies must be retained in the vehicle file. The recipient’s name and the reason for return must be recorded in the LANDATA notes. Note 4 Left-hand drive vehicles that were entry certified into New Zealand before 1 April 2010 are also able to be continued to be registered, and so are vehicles temporarily imported into New Zealand. Note 5 LHD vehicles imported temporarily must be cleared through the New Zealand Customs Service with the appropriate documents – Carnet de Passage en Douanes, Triptyque or the relevant New Zealand Customs Service import declaration form. The vehicle will then need to be registered as an overseas vehicle and pass a warrant of fitness inspection. This will allow you to operate the vehicle on overseas plates for up to 12 months. 5-3 Completing the left-hand drive process A left-hand drive vehicle must be recorded as the appropriate type in the ‘special permit types’ field in the ‘VIN authority allocation/confirmation’ screen. Table 5-3-1 lists valid permit type codes. Table 5-3-1. Special permit type codes Code Description A Left-hand drive – Category A (Note 1) B Left-hand drive – Category B C1 Left-hand drive – Category C1 C2 Left-hand drive – Category C2 C3 Left-hand drive – Category C3 C4 Left-hand drive – Category C4 C5 Left-hand drive – Category C5 D Left-hand drive – Category D E Left-hand drive – Category E F Left-hand drive – Category F G Left-hand drive – Category G Note 1 Where code A is entered, a note stating the following must be added to the vehicle notes: ‘Vehicle ceases to qualify for left-hand drive exemption if the registered person changes before [DDMMYYYY]’. The date specified must be either four years after first registration in New Zealand or when the vehicle reaches 20 years of age, whichever is earlier. Once all the required documentation has been checked and the certification completed, the entry certifier prints an MR2A form and fills in the owner’s name (Category A only) before handing it to the owner. A copy of the completed MR2A showing the name of the person who the permit was issued to must be archived with the vehicle file. Category A vehicles must have NOTES entered in LANDATA showing the restrictions on change of ownership to complete the process. The LHD permit number may have already been entered in LANDATA notes by the Transport Agency. If it hasn’t, it ismost likely that the vehicle did not exist in LANDATA at the time when the permit was issued. In this case. Please advise the Transport Agency accordingly so that the Permit details can be added to NOTES. See Technical bulletin 33: Category A left-hand drive vehicles for more extensive information. Any queries about individual cases involving left-hand drive vehicles not covered by these procedures should be referred to the Transport Agency call centre, on 0800 699 000. Reprinting MR2A forms See Inspection and certification 1-9, section 2.2 Reprinting an MR2A for a left-hand drive vehicle. Page updated 17 May 2023 (see details).