Correct as at 26th April 2024. It may be superseded at any time.
Extract taken from: Vehicle Inspection Portal > VIRMs > In-service certification (WoF and CoF) > Light PSVs > Vehicle interior
7 Vehicle interior
7-1 Seats and seat anchorages
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. The vehicle is not fitted with a driver’s seat.
2. A seat is not attached to the vehicle structure by seat anchorages.
Condition and performance
3. A seat frame or seat structure has been weakened, eg due to damage, corrosion or excessive wear.
4. The adjustment mechanism of a driver’s seat:
a) does not operate, or
b) is worn, causing excessive movement of the seat.
5. The attachment of the seat to the seat anchorage is loose or weakened by damage.
6. The attachment of the seat anchorage to the vehicle structure is loose or weakened by damage.
7. There is corrosion damage within 150mm of a seat anchorage (Note 4).
8. There is corrosion damage within 300mm of the anchorage of a seat with integrated seatbelt anchorages (Note 4).
9. A driver’s seat is in such a condition that it does not allow the driver to have proper control of the vehicle.
Modification
10. A modification (Note 3) carried out after 1 March 1999 affects a seat or seat anchorage, and:
a) is not excluded from the requirements for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-1-1), and
b) is missing proof of LVV specialist or accepted overseas certification, ie:
i. the vehicle is not fitted with a valid LVV certification plate, or
ii. the operator is not able to produce a valid modification declaration or authority card , or
iii. the vehicle has not been certified to an accepted overseas system as described in Technical bulletin 13 .
Note 1
A seat may be able to be rotated or placed to face in different directions.
Note 2
Corrosion damage is where the metal has been eaten away, which is evident by pitting. The outward sign of such corrosion damage is typically displayed by the lifting or bubbling of paint. In extreme cases, the area affected by the corrosion damage will fall out and leave a hole.
Note 3 Definitions
Modify means to change a vehicle from its original state by altering, substituting, adding or removing a structure, system, component or equipment, but does not include repair.
Repair means to restore a damaged or worn vehicle, its structure, systems, components or equipment to within safe tolerance of its condition when manufactured, including replacement with undamaged or new structures, systems, components or equipment.
Seat means an assembly, or part of an assembly, intended to seat at least one person, which may or may not be integral to the structure of the vehicle, and includes components, such as rails and runners, that attach to the seat anchorages.
Seat anchorages means the parts of the vehicle structure to which a seat is attached.
Note 4
Where the inspector is presented with a Nissan Terrano or Nissan Mistral vehicle of the type that is fitted with a two-layer (double skin) floor panel, the inspection procedure in Technical bulletin 2 must be followed.
Note 5
Where a seat with an integrated airbag is fitted with a seat cover that is not airbag compatible, this modification is allowed (a pass), but the inspector should advise the operator, for example by putting a note on the checksheet , that the seat airbag may not work properly in a crash. Airbag compatible seat covers are now readily available.
Note 6
- Where a manufacturer fitted or LVV certified seat has been removed, a seatbelt is not required for that position, so any remaining seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage components are not required to be inspected.
- Where an LVV certified seat has been temporarily removed, meaning that the information on the LVV plate differs from the vehicle, this is not on its own a reason for rejection.
- Where seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage components remain fitted, and the vehicle is such that the removed seats can be readily re-fitted and used with the seatbelts, the vehicle inspector must:
- identify which seats were missing when the vehicle was presented for inspection, and
- advise the vehicle operator that the remaining seatbelt components have not been checked, and that if the missing seats are re-fitted at a later stage, it is the vehicle operators' responsibility to ensure that these seats and seatbelts are compliant prior to using them.
If the inspector chooses to inspect any remaining seatbelt components, then they should identify that to the vehicle operator. Any defects should be noted on the checksheet, but must not be failed. The same information as noted above must be recorded on the checksheet to make it clear that the responsibility lies with the vehicle operator if seats are re-fitted.
Table 7-1-1. Modifications that do not require LVV certification
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is not required provided that: |
|---|---|
Aftermarket ‘Retro’ brand child seats designed for children 5–12 years old (up to 38kg) |
|
Seats – modification or replacement or installation of a seat anchorage after 1 March 1999 |
Note LVV certification is not required where the only modification is the removal of seats and/or seatbelts. However, a class change, and a new load rating may be required in some cases. |
| Campervan conversions |
See also Table 3-1-1 and Table 7-5-1 |
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is never required: |
|---|---|
Seat pads or covers (see (Note 5) for seats with integrated airbags) |
|
Any modification for the purpose of law enforcement or the provision of emergency services |
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A motor vehicle must be fitted with a driver’s seat.
2. A seat in a motor vehicle must be fitted to the vehicle structure by means of seat anchorages.
Condition and performance
3. Seats and seat anchorages must be safe, strong, in sound condition and compatible in strength with each other and with the vehicle structure.
4. The driver’s seat and its anchorages must be designed, constructed and maintained to enable the driver to have proper control of the vehicle.
5. Seats and seat anchorages must be securely attached to the vehicle structure.
6. When a seatbelt or any part of the seatbelt is integral to a seat, the seat and seat anchorages must be compatible in strength with the seatbelt or with that part of the seatbelt attached to the seat.
Modification
7. A modification, on or after 1 March 1999 to a seat or seat anchorage must be inspected and certified by an LVV specialist certifier, unless the vehicle:
a) is excluded from the requirement for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-1-1), and
b) has been inspected in accordance with the requirements in this manual, including those for equipment, condition and performance.
Page amended 1 April 2021 (see amendment details).
7-2 PSV seating
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory requirement
1. On a vehicle fitted with a wheelchair or wheelchair and occupant restraint that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000, or on a light PSV fitted with a wheelchair occupant restraint on or after 1 July 2000, a wheelchair or wheelchair and occupant restraint has not been certified by an LVV specialist certifier.
Mandatory and permitted equipment
2. The driver's seat is not adjustable.
3. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
4. There is a seat on the right-hand side of the driver’s seat.
5. A forward-facing passenger seat (other than one fitted with a seatbelt) does not have either another seat, a partition or a guard rail positioned no more than 1m in front of the front edge of the seat.
6. A vehicle, except any outdoor-access vehicle (Note 2), that entered service as a PSV in New Zealand:
a) before 1 July 2000 does not have armrests fitted to the open ends of sideways-facing seats, or
b) on or after 1 July 2000 does not have armrests fitted to sideways-facing seats at intervals of 1.8 m or less as well as to the open ends of sideways-facing seats.
7. A folding crew seat (Note 1):
a) is fitted other than in the stairwell of the front doorway, or
b) does not fold away automatically when unoccupied, or
c) does not have clear signs stating that the seats:
i. are for use by crew members only, or
ii. must be secured in the fold-away position when they are not being used.
Wheelchair and wheelchair-occupant restraints
8. A PSV that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000, and is designed to carry a forward-facing wheelchair and occupant, is not fitted with a restraint system for a wheelchair.
9. A light PSV that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 and that is designed to carry a rearward-facing wheelchair and occupant is not fitted with a backrest head support and a restraint system for a wheelchair.
10. A restraint system for a wheelchair, or for a wheelchair and occupant, on a vehicle that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000, or that was fitted with such equipment on or after 1 July 2000 is not certified by an LVV specialist certifier, or doesn't meet all of the following requirements:
a) a horizontal handrail adjacent to the wheelchair parking position for wheelchair occupants to steady themselves while the passenger service vehicle is moving, or
b) a means of preventing the wheelchair from tipping backwards, or
c) a head support if the back of the wheelchair occupant’s head would be against a window, bulkhead or partition, or
d) a means of preventing the wheelchair from swinging out of position or tipping over, or
e) a sign adjacent to the wheelchair parking position stating that the restraint system must be secured and the wheelchair’s brakes applied, or
f) easily accessible quick-release mechanisms.
Condition and performance
11. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
12. A wheelchair or wheelchair-occupant restraint does not meet the condition and performance requirements of section 7-5, general vehicle pages.
13. The driver does not have safe and reasonably easy access to the driver’s seat.
14. The driving controls are not protected, or located in such a way as to minimise the risk that they will be operated accidentally.
Modification
15. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
16. A seat or seating arrangement, including a wheelchair or wheelchair occupant restraint system, has been modified since the last CoF inspection and there is no written confirmation that items affected by the modification comply with the requirements for entry certification.
Note 1
Crew, in relation to a PSV, means the person or group of persons in control or having responsibility for the operation of the vehicle or the wellbeing of the passengers.
Passenger means a person travelling in a vehicle but does not include the crew.
Note 2
Outdoor-access vehicle means a motor vehicle that is used to provide access to remote areas solely in connection with outdoor activities.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory requirement
1. On a vehicle fitted with a wheelchair or wheelchair and occupant restraint that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000, or on a light PSV fitted with a wheelchair occupant restraint on or after 1 July 2000, a wheelchair occupant restraint must be certified by an LVV specialist certifier.
Mandatory and permitted equipment
2. A driver's seat must be adjustable to ensure the driver has access to the driving controls.
3. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
4. There must not be a seat on the right-hand side of the driver’s seat.
5. Every forward-facing passenger seat must have either another seat, a partition or a guard rail positioned no more than 1 m in front of the front edge of the seat unless the seat is fitted with a seatbelt.
6. A vehicle, except any outdoor-access vehicle (Note 2), that entered service as a PSV in New Zealand:
a) before 1 July 2000 must have armrests fitted to the open ends of sideways-facing seats, or
b) on or after 1 July 2000 must have armrests fitted to sideways-facing seats at intervals of 1.8 m or less as well as to the open ends of sideways-facing seats.
7. Folding crew seats (Note 1):
a) may be fitted only in the stairwell of the front doorway of a PSV, and
b) must fold away automatically when unoccupied, and
c) must have clear signs stating that the seats:
i. are for use by crew members only, and
ii. must be secured in the fold-away position when they are not being used.
Wheelchair and wheelchair-occupant restraints
8. A restraint system for a wheelchair, or for a wheelchair and occupant, must:
a) comply with the design and construction requirements of the version of AS 2942-1987 or the version of AS 29421994/Amdt 1-1998 that was applicable at the time it was attached; or
b) be certified in accordance with Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002 as complying with, or being equivalent to, the technical requirements of the version of AS 2942-1987 or the version of AS 29421994/Amdt 1-1998 that was applicable at the time it was fitted, or
c) comply with all of the following requirements:
i. there must be a horizontal handrail adjacent to the wheelchair parking position for wheelchair occupants to steady themselves while the passenger service vehicle is moving; and
ii. the wheelchair must be prevented from tipping backwards; and
iii. a head support must be fitted if the back of the wheelchair occupant’s head would be against a window, bulkhead or partition; and
iv. a restraint system must be fitted to prevent the wheelchair from swinging out of position or tipping over; and
v. there must be a sign adjacent to the wheelchair parking position stating that the restraint system must be secured and the wheelchair’s brakes applied; and
vi. the restraint system must include easily accessible quick-release mechanisms; and
vii. a vehicle inspector must certify that the seatbelt anchorage or alternative wheelchair restraint system complies with the version of Australian Design Rule 5/03 which was applicable at the time it was installed, or can withstand equal loadings in the case of an alternative restraint system.
9. A PSV that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 that is designed to carry a forward-facing wheelchair and occupant must be fitted with a restraint system for a wheelchair.
10. A light PSV that entered passenger service in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 that is designed to carry a rearward-facing wheelchair and occupant, must be fitted with a backrest head support and a restraint system for a wheelchair.
11. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
12. The driver must have safe and reasonably easy access to the driver’s seat.
13. The driving controls must be protected, or located in such a way as to minimise the risk that they will be operated accidentally.
Modification
14. Refer to section 7-1, general vehicle pages.
15. If a passenger seat, crew seat, wheelchair restraint system, or wheelchair and occupant restraint system is fitted, relocated or modified in a light PSV since it was last certified for operation in-service, the passenger seat, crew seat, wheelchair restraint system or wheelchair and occupant restraint system must comply with the requirements for entry certification.
Page amended 1 April 2024 (see amendment details).
7-3 Head restraints
Reasons for rejection
Condition and performance
1. The external surfaces and padding of a head restraint have deteriorated to the extent that they are likely to injure a vehicle occupant.
2. An adjustable head restraint is unable to remain locked in its adjusted position.
Modification
3. A modification (Note 1) affects a head restraint, and
a) is not excluded from the requirements for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-3-1), and
b) is missing proof of LVV specialist or accepted overseas certification, ie:
i. the vehicle is not fitted with a valid LVV certification plate, or
ii. the operator is not able to produce a valid modification declaration or authority card, or
iii. the vehicle has not been certified to an accepted overseas system as described in Technical bulletin 13.
Note 1 Definitions
Modify means to change a vehicle from its original state by altering, substituting, adding or removing a structure, system, component or equipment, but does not include repair.
Repair means to restore a damaged or worn vehicle, its structure, systems, components or equipment to within safe tolerance of its condition when manufactured, including replacement with undamaged or new structures, systems, components or equipment.
Table 7-3-1. Modifications that do not require LVV certification
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is not required provided that: |
|---|---|
Head restraint removal |
|
Fitting of aftermarket LCD screens to head restraints |
|
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is never required: |
|---|---|
|
|
Note 2
The following vehicles with a GVM of 2500 kg or less are required to comply with such a standard:
- class MA motor vehicles manufactured from 1 March 1999, and
- class MA motor vehicles that were less than 20 years old when they were first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 April 2002, and
- class MB or MC motor vehicles manufactured from 1 October 2003.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Permitted equipment
1. A motor vehicle may be fitted with head restraints.
Condition and performance
2. The external surfaces and padding of a head restraint must not have deteriorated to the extent that the likelihood of injury to an occupant of the vehicle is increased.
3. An adjustable head restraint must remain able to be adjusted and locked into position.
Modification
4. A modification that affects a head restraint must be inspected and certified by an LVV specialist certifier, unless the vehicle is:
a) excluded from the requirement for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-3-1), and
b) has been inspected in accordance with the requirements in this manual, including those for equipment, condition and performance.
Page amended 29 April 2020 (see amendment details).
7-4 PSV aisles
|
Note An unmodified vehicle is not required to comply with section 7-4 provided that it complies with either:
|
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A PSV does not have at least one of the following:
a) an aisle to provide unobstructed access throughout the PSV from each doorway used for passenger entry and exit
b) a door alongside every seat or every row of forward-facing or rearward-facing seats
c) a doorway that gives access to a compartment with fewer than nine seating positions in two rows of seats that face each other and opens into the space between the seats
d) in an outdoor-access vehicle with sideways-facing seats, at least a 300mm space between the front edges of seats which face each other, and at least 300mm foot room for any other seats.
Aisle steps and ramps
2. A flight of aisle steps, an internal ramp or a landing is not provided with handrails, handholds, or handgrips.
Aisles in a PSV used for standing passengers
3. A PSV with a certificate of loading that allows standing passengers is not fitted with handrails, handholds or handgrips whose number and location are appropriate for:
a) the number of passengers permitted to occupy the aisle, or
b) passengers of different heights.
Condition and performance
4. A light, push button, air vent or similar device:
a) projects more than 5mm into the required minimum aisle space, or
b) is not designed to minimise the risk of injury to passengers.
5. A handrail, handhold or handgrip is:
a) not suitable, or
b) not securely attached, or
c) in a condition such that it is likely to injure a person.
6. The aisle step-tread surfaces are:
a) not of a slip-resistant material, or
b) slippery or have deteriorated so that they are no longer safe to use.
Modification
7. An aisle arrangement was modified since the last CoF inspection and there is no written confirmation that items affected by the modification comply with the requirements for entry certification.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. An aisle is required in a PSV to provide unobstructed access throughout the PSV from each doorway used for passenger entry and exit, except where:
a) there is a door alongside every seat or every row of forward- or rearward-facing seats, or
b) a doorway:
i. gives access to a compartment with fewer than nine seating positions in two rows of seats which face each other, and
ii. opens into the space between the seats, or
c) the sideways-facing seats in an outdoor-access vehicle have at least a 300mm space between the front edges of seats which face each other, and there is at least 300mm foot room for any other seats.
Aisle steps and ramps
2. Aisle steps, internal ramps and landings must be provided with suitable handrails, handholds or handgrips.
Aisles in a PSV used for standing passengers
3. If the certificate of loading allows standing passengers to be carried on the PSV, handrails, handholds or handgrips must be fitted, whose number and location must be appropriate for the number of passengers permitted to occupy the aisle and for passengers of different heights.
Performance
4. An aisle, where required, must provide unobstructed access throughout the PSV from each doorway used for passenger entry and exit.
5. The aisle, where required, must be clear of any fixture, except that lights, push buttons, air vents, and similar devices may project up to 5mm into the required minimum aisle-height space, provided it is designed to minimise the risk of injury to passengers.
Aisle steps and ramps
6. The aisle step-tread surfaces must be of a slip-resistant material.
Modification
7. If an aisle in a PSV has been modified since it was last certified for operation in-service, the aisle must meet the requirements for entry certification.
Page amended 1 October 2012 (see amendment details).
7-5 Seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
- see Note 20, Note 21
1. A seatbelt (Note 1) of the type specified in Table 7-5-1 (first registered in NZ before 1/1/1991), Table 7-5-2 (first registered in NZ between 1/1/1991 and 31/3/2002)and Table 7-5-3 (first registered in NZ from 1/4/2002) has not been fitted for the relevant seating position (see (Note 18) for permitted specialist seatbelts), and
a) the requirements for specific motor vehicles in Table 7-5-4 are not met, or
b) the requirements for modification in Table 7-5-5 are not met.
2. A seat that can be rotated or reversed to face in different directions, for which seatbelts are not provided for all directions, has no notice easily visible by the seat occupant that indicates the direction the seat must (or must not) face when the vehicle is moving.
3. A three-point seatbelt imported and distributed by BVL (Business Ventures Limited) and manufactured by Changzhou BWD, China or Jiang Su Jiu Jiu Traffic Facilities Co. Ltd. is installed (see Figure 7-5-6 for samples to help identify the seatbelts).
4. A re-webbed seatbelt is fitted without evidence of exemption from requirements by Waka Kotahi.
Condition
- see Note 20
Seatbelts
- see Figure 7-5-7 for guidance on webbing damage and Figure 7-5-8 for guidance on passable webbing indentations.
5. The seatbelt assembly is not securely fixed to a seatbelt anchorage.
6. A seatbelt component (eg protective plastic cover on buckle, tongue or retractor system) is damaged so that foreign objects may enter the interior components, or that they may cause damage to the interior components, mechanisms or webbing.
7. The seatbelt webbing (including webbing attached to the buckle) has:
a) a cut, including a cut on the surface, or
b) a rip or tear, or
c) fraying, or
d) stretching (eg the belt has unusual web patterns or the webbing is deformed, will not lie flat, or is curled or rippled) (see Figure 7-5-8 for exceptions), or
e) fading so that most of the colour has been bleached, and:
i. shows signs of chalking, or a powdery residue is evident on the webbing, or
ii. it has become stiff
f) been dyed to conceal fading, or
g) contamination from grease, paint, solvents or similar products.
h) been replaced or shows other signs of repair (Note 14) and there is no evidence of approval from the seatbelt manufacturer.
Note Such approval is very unlikely.
8. The seatbelt stitching:
a) is damaged or insecure, or
b) shows signs of home repair, eg gluing, stitching by hand or home sewing machine, staples, bolts, or rivets, or
c) indicates that the 'rip stitch' system has been activated, ie the stitching is broken and a 'REPLACE BELT' label has been exposed near the lower seatbelt anchorage, or this label has been cut off.
9. A buckle and tongue:
a) are mismatched, or
b) do not lock, or
c) do not remain locked, or
d) do not release easily, or
e) are insecure when coupled.
10. A component is missing (Note 19), or is cracked, distorted, damaged or deteriorated in such a way that:
a) its strength or integrity is reduced, or
b) it may damage another component or the webbing, or
c) foreign matter may enter the interior of the mechanism, or
d) the seatbelt or a seatbelt component cannot function as intended (does not apply to securely locked seatbelt height adjusters).
11. A seatbelt stalk:
a) (wire-cable type) shows broken wires, or
b) (plastic-covered webbing type) webbing has deteriorated, or is frayed, cut or faded, or
c) (solid metal type) is corroded, cracked or buckled, or
d) is not the correct type for the vehicle or the seating position.
12. A seatbelt pretensioning system has not been replaced after activation.
Seatbelt anchorages
13. A seatbelt anchorage (Note 12):
a) is not securely fixed to the vehicle structure, or
b) is not securely fixed to the seat if the seatbelt is an integral part of the seat, or
c) is corroded, damaged or shows signs of tampering, or
d) has evidence of corrosion damage (Note 13) (Note 17) or structural damage within 150mm of a lower seatbelt anchorage mounted in a wheel arch, or within 300mm of any other seatbelt anchorage.
Performance
- see Note 19
14. The seatbelt webbing of a retractor-type seatbelt does not easily pull out from the retractor.
15. The seatbelt webbing of a retractor-type seatbelt has difficulty retracting, eg is slow or intermittent, or does not fully retract.
16. A static seatbelt cannot be adjusted to fit a variety of persons.
17. The seatbelt is not of sufficient length to fit a variety of persons.
18. A seatbelt is located so that it cannot be readily fastened or released by the wearer.
19. The web and/or vehicle sensitivity of a dual-sensitive retractor type seatbelt fitted in a front seating position does not function correctly.
20. The vehicle sensitivity of a single-sensitive retractor type seatbelt fitted in a front seating position does not function correctly.
21. The web sensitivity of a dual-sensitive retractor type seatbelt fitted in a rear seating position does not function correctly.
22. The vehicle sensitivity of a single-sensitive retractor type seatbelt fitted in a rear seating position does not function correctly.
Modification
23. A modification affects a seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage – including fitting of an alternative type of seatbelt, or a modification (since 1 January 1992) that affects a seatbelt anchorage, and
a) is not excluded from the requirements for LVV specialist certification (Table 7–5–5), and
b) is missing proof of LVV specialist or accepted overseas certification, ie:
i. the vehicle is not fitted with a valid LVV certification plate, or
ii. the operator is not able to produce a valid modification declaration or authority card, or
iii. the vehicle has not been certified to an accepted overseas system as described in Technical bulletin 13 .
24. The seatbelt assembly has been removed after it was rejected for one or more reasons for rejection due to Condition or Performance (above), whether or not the seatbelt is required to be fitted.
Note 1
Seatbelt means an assembly of straps made of webbing or metal with a securing buckle, adjusting devices and attachments, including any device for absorbing energy or for retracting the webbing, that is:
a) able to be anchored to the interior of a vehicle, and
b) designed to diminish the risk of injury to its wearer in the event of a collision or abrupt deceleration of the vehicle by
limiting the mobility of the wearer’s body.
Note 2
Retractor means a device to accommodate parts, or all, of the webbing of a seatbelt.
Note 3
Single-sensitive means a seatbelt retractor that, during normal driving conditions, allows freedom of movement by the wearer of the seatbelt by means of length-adjusting components that automatically adjust the seatbelt to the wearer, and that comprises a locking mechanism activated in an emergency by deceleration of the vehicle (ie the seatbelt is vehicle sensitive).
Note 4
Dual-sensitive means a seatbelt retractor that, during normal driving conditions, allows freedom of movement by the wearer of the seatbelt by means of length-adjusting components that automatically adjust the strap to the wearer, and that is activated by two or more of the following:
a) deceleration of the vehicle, or
b) acceleration of the strap from the retractor, or
c) other means of activation.
Note 5
Seating position means a seat or part of a seat that is of a suitable size and shape for one person.
Note 6
Outer seating position means a seating position next to a side wall of a vehicle where there is no more than 500mm between the longitudinal centre of the seat and the side wall.
Note 7
Middle seating position means a seating position in a vehicle that is not an outer seating position.
Note 8
Rear seating position means a seating position in a vehicle behind the driver.
Note 9
Monocoque, in relation to a motor vehicle, means that the chassis of the vehicle is integral to the body.
Note 10
Retrofit, in relation to a seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage in a motor vehicle, means to fit a seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage in a location where a seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage has not been fitted before.
Note 11
Motorhome means a motor vehicle, other than a trailer, that is permanently equipped with features intended to make the vehicle suitable as a dwelling place, and must include at least one sleeping berth and one table, both of which may be of a design that allows them to be retracted or folded away.
For the purposes of this section, motorhomes and campervans are interchangeable terms.
Note 12
Seatbelt anchorage means the parts of a vehicle structure, seat structure or any other part of the vehicle to which a seatbelt assembly is attached.
Note 13
Corrosion damage is where the metal has been eaten away, which is evident by pitting. The outward signs of such corrosion damage is typically displayed by the lifting or bubbling of paint. In extreme cases the area affected by the corrosion damage will fall out and leave a hole.
Note 14
Modify means to change a vehicle from its original state by altering, substituting, adding or removing a structure, system, component or equipment, but does not include repair.
Repair means to restore a damaged or worn vehicle, its structure, systems, components or equipment to within safe tolerance of its condition when manufactured, including replacement with undamaged or new structures, systems, components or equipment.
- Any repairs, such as webbing or retractor replacement, must be approved by the seatbelt manufacturer. Any modification, such as fitting a different type of seatbelt or a seatbelt extension, must be approved by the seatbelt or vehicle manufacturer. It is very unlikely that a repair or modification will be approved by the vehicle or seatbelt manufacturer. Where such approval is claimed, the inspector must request appropriate evidence.
Note 15
Specialist seatbelt means a seatbelt that is designed for specialist purposes, and includes a full harness seatbelt used for motorsport activities.
Note 16
Permanent structure means a non-removable structure capable of sustaining loads associated with seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages.
Note 17
Where the inspector is presented with a Nissan Terrano or Nissan Mistral vehicle of the type that is fitted with a two-layer (double skin) floor panel, the inspection procedure in Technical bulletin 2 must be followed.
Note 18
A vehicle may be fitted with seatbelts other than of type L, S, R1 or R2 only if the seatbelts are of a specialist type (eg full harness seatbelts), and:
a) the specialist seatbelts are the vehicle manufacturer’s original equipment specification, or
b) the specialist seatbelts have been fitted for a specific purpose (eg motorsport), and the operator produces a valid LVV authority card, or
c) the vehicle is scratchbuilt and the specialist seatbelts are noted on the LVV plate.
Note 19
Some class MA vehicles must have a type R2 webbing clamp seatbelt in a front outer seating position when a type R1 or R2 seatbelt in that position failed an in-service inspection because of its condition or performance. Refer to Technical bulletin 5 for requirements and exceptions.
Note 20
Where a seat has been removed, a seatbelt is not required for that position, and any remaining seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage components are not required to be inspected. Where seatbelt or seatbelt anchorage components remain fitted, and the vehicle is such that the removed seats can be readily re-fitted and used with the seatbelts, the vehicle inspector must:
- Identify which seats were missing when the vehicle was presented for inspection, and
- Advise the vehicle operator that the remaining seatbelt components have not been checked, and that if the missing seats are re-fitted at a later stage, it is the vehicle operators' responsibility to ensure that these seats and seatbelts are compliant prior to using them.
If the inspector chooses to inspect any remaining seatbelt components, then they should identify that to the vehicle operator. Any defects should be noted on the checksheet, but must not be failed. The same information as noted above must be recorded on the checksheet to make it clear that the responsibility lies with the vehicle operator if seats are re-fitted.
Note 21
Except as provided by Table 7-5-5, any seatbelt fitted to a seating position of a vehicle—either having been entry certified (as originally manufactured or modified) or subsequently specialist certified—must remain and be restored when damaged. It cannot be removed on the grounds that Table 7-5-1, Table 7-5-2, or Table 7-5-3 doesn’t require the seatbelt.
Key to Table 7-5-1, Table 7-5-2 and Table 7-5-3: Types of seatbelts1
– | No seatbelt required |
L | Lap seatbelt |
S | Static lap-and-diagonal seatbelt without a retractor (Note 2) |
R1 | Single-sensitive emergency-locking retractor (ELR) lap and diagonal seatbelt (Note 3) |
R2 | Multiple- (dual-) sensitive emergency-locking retractor lap-and-diagonal seatbelt (Note 4) |
1 A requirement for a specified type of seatbelt may be met by the type specified or another type below it in the key.
Table 7-5-1. Vehicles first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1991
Vehicle class | Seating position (Note 5) | First registered anywhere | |
|---|---|---|---|
1/1/1955–31/10/1979 | 1/11/1979–31/12/1990 | ||
MA, MB, MC | Front outer and driver’s (Note 6) | S2 | R21, 3 |
Front middle (Note 7) | – | L | |
Rear outer (Note 8) | – | R2 or R1 or S | |
Rear middle | – | L | |
NA (tare <2000 kg) | Front outer and driver’s | S2 | R21 |
Front middle | – | L | |
1 A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be fitted with type S or type R1 seatbelts in the front outer seating position.
2 May retain OE seatbelts, but replacement seatbelts must be of type S, R1 or R2.
3 A class MA vehicle must have a type R2 webbing clamp seatbelt in a front outer seating position, when a type R1 or R2 seatbelt in that position failed an in-service inspection because of its condition or performance.
Refer to Technical bulletin 5 for requirements and exceptions.
Key to Table 7-5-1, Table 7-5-2 and Table 7-5-3: Types of seatbelts1
– | No seatbelt required |
L | Lap seatbelt |
S | Static lap-and-diagonal seatbelt without a retractor (Note 2) |
R1 | Single-sensitive emergency-locking retractor (ELR) lap and diagonal seatbelt (Note 3) |
R2 | Multiple- (dual-) sensitive emergency-locking retractor lap-and-diagonal seatbelt (Note 4) |
1 A requirement for a specified type of seatbelt may be met by the type specified or another type below it in the key.
Table 7-5-2. Vehicles first registered in New Zealand 1 January 1991 to 31 March 2002
Vehicle class | Seating position | First registered anywhere | |
|---|---|---|---|
1/1/1955– | 1/11/1979– | ||
MA, MB, MC | Front outer and driver’s | S1, 2 | R25, 6 |
Front middle | – | L | |
Rear outer | – | R2 or R1 or S1 | |
Rear middle | – | L or S or R1 or R2 | |
NA | Front outer and driver’s | S1, 2 | R25 |
Front middle | – | L | |
MD1, MD2 | Front outer and driver’s | – | R23, 4, 5 |
Front middle | – | L4 | |
1 Tare weight less than 2000 kg.
2 May retain OE belts, but replacement belts must be of type S, R1 or R2.
3 Applies to MD2 only if of monocoque construction (Note 9).
4 If seatbelts are not fitted, but anchorages are fitted, must have seatbelts fitted from 1 October 2002. If anchorages are not fitted, seatbelts must be retrofitted from 1 October 2003.
5 Front type R1 seatbelts may remain fitted if they were fitted as OE and have a declaration issued by an entry certifier, or a plate affixed to the vehicle in a position approved by the Transport Agency (see Figure 7-5-2, Figure 7-5-3, Figure 7-5-4, Figure 7-5-5 and Figure 7-5-6). If missing, refer the vehicle to an entry certifier.
6 A class MA vehicle must have a type R2 webbing clamp seatbelt in a front outer seating position, when a type R1 or R2 seatbelt in that position failed an in-service inspection because of its condition or performance. Refer to Technical bulletin 5 for requirements and exceptions.
Key to Table 7-5-1, Table 7-5-2 and Table 7-5-3: Types of seatbelts1
– | No seatbelt required |
L | Lap seatbelt |
S | Static lap-and-diagonal seatbelt without a retractor (Note 2) |
R1 | Single-sensitive emergency-locking retractor (ELR) lap and diagonal seatbelt (Note 3) |
R2 | Multiple- (dual-) sensitive emergency-locking retractor lap-and-diagonal seatbelt (Note 4) |
1 A requirement for a specified type of seatbelt may be met by the type specified or another type below it in the key.
Table 7-5-3. Vehicles first registered in New Zealand from 1 April 2002
Vehicle class | Seating position | Manufactured | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
1/1/1955–31/10/1979 | 1/11/1979–30/9/2003 | 1/10/2003– | ||
MA, MB, MC | Front outer and driver’s | S1, 2 | R25, 6 | R25, 6 |
Front middle | – | L | L | |
Rear outer | – | R2 or R1 or S1 | L8 or R2 or R1 | |
Rear middle | – | L or S or R1 or R2 | L or S or R1 or R2 | |
NA (excluding motorhomes manufactured from 1 October 2003, refer to Table 7-5-4) | Front outer and driver’s | S1, 2 | R25 | R25 |
Front middle | – | L | L | |
Rear outer | – | – | R2 or R1 | |
Rear middle | – | – | L or S or R1 or R2 | |
MD1, MD27 | Front outer and driver’s | – | R23, 4, 5 | R25 |
Front middle | – | L3, 4 | L | |
Rear outer | – | – | L8 or R2 or R1 | |
Rear middle | – | – | L or S or R1 or R2 | |
1 Tare weight less than 2000 kg.
2 May retain OE belts, but replacement belts must be of type S, R1 or R2.
3 Applies to MD2 only if of monocoque construction (Note 9).
4 If seatbelts are not fitted, but anchorages are fitted, must have seatbelts fitted from 1 October 2002. If anchorages are not fitted, seatbelts must be retrofitted from 1 October 2003 (Note 10).
5 Front type R1 seatbelts may remain fitted if they were fitted as OE and have a declaration issued by an entry certifier, or a plate affixed to the vehicle in a position approved by the Transport Agency (see Figures 7-5-2 to 7-5-6). If missing, refer the vehicle to an entry certifier.
6 A class MA vehicle must have a type R2 webbing clamp seatbelt in a front outer seating position, when a type R1 or R2 seatbelt in that position failed an in-service inspection because of its condition or performance. Refer to Technical bulletin 5 for requirements and exceptions.
7MD2 vehicles must be issued with a CoF, please refer the vehicle to the nearest CoF testing station.
8 For motorhomes only.
Table 7-5-4. Requirements for specific motor vehicles
Specific vehicles | Mandatory equipment |
|---|---|
Sideways-facing seating positions | 1. A Land Rover manufactured before 1 January 1991 does not require a seatbelt to be fitted. 2. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand before 1 October 2002 must have a seatbelt of any type fitted. 3. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 October 2002 must have a lap seatbelt fitted. |
Vehicles without a structure to fit required seatbelts | 4. A vehicle manufactured before 1 October 2003 may be fitted with lap belts in any seating position if the vehicle has a permanent structure that ends less than 500mm above the top of the uncompressed seat cushion (measured from a point 150mm forward of the lowest part of the back cushion), and OE upper seatbelt anchorages are not fitted. 5. A class MA or MC vehicle manufactured before 1 October 2003 may be fitted with static lap-and-diagonal seatbelts in outer seating positions instead of R2 type seatbelts if the vehicle has a permanent structure that ends less than 500mm above the top of the uncompressed seat cushion (measured from a point 150mm forward of the lowest part of the back cushion). 6. A class MA or MC vehicle first registered outside New Zealand before 1 November 1979 that does not have B-pillars, and does not have seatbelts or seatbelt anchorages fitted for the front-outer seating positions, may be fitted with lap belts if the inspector has determined that it is not practicable to retrofit upper anchorages for static lap-and-diagonal seatbelts, and the lower anchorages have been certified to the LVV Code if retrofitted after 1 April 2002, or LVV code or ST120395 if retrofitted prior to 1 April 2002. Note The vehicle inspector may accept documentation issued by the LVVTA (see Figure 7-5-5) that verifies that the vehicle does not have a suitable structure to fit required seatbelts. |
Motorhomes | 7. Motorhomes manufactured prior to 1 October 2003 or motor vehicles converted to motorhomes prior to 1 October 2003 must have seatbelts fitted that are appropriate for the class of vehicle in which the vehicle was registered when it was registered as a motorhome. 8. Motorhomes manufactured from 1 October 2003 or motor vehicles converted to motorhomes from 1 October 2003 must be fitted with the following seatbelts and notice: a) front seating positions: seatbelts must be fitted as specified for class MB vehicles in Table 7–5–3 b) rear seating positions: at least as many lap (type L) or lap-and-diagonal (type R1 or R2) seatbelts as there are sleeping berths minus the number of front seating positions. c) a notice must be displayed in a prominent location that recommends, on safety grounds, that when the vehicle is travelling, passengers use seats that are fitted with seatbelts, and that advises passengers that it is compulsory to wear fitted seatbelts. |
Motor vehicles that transport detained persons | 9. A motor vehicle designed exclusively for transporting a person detained by the NZ Police or the Department of Corrections or a person acting on their behalf must comply with requirements for front seating positions, but does not have to comply with requirements for other seating positions. |
Table 7-5-5. Modifications that do not require LVV certification
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is not required provided that: |
|---|---|
Seatbelts |
– affect the performance of the child restraint, or – cause injury to a vehicle occupant, or – cause damage to the seatbelt. |
Top-tether anchorage for a child seat or harness |
|
Stereo equipment and speakers |
If fitted to the rear parcel shelf:
If fitted to a part of the vehicle other than the rear parcel shelf:
|
| Campervan conversions |
There is evidence of certification of the modification from the company that carried out the modification, i.e. a secondary certification plate or label in the case of a motorhome conversion (see Technical bulletin 13). See also Table 3-1-1 and Table 7-7-1 |
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is never required: |
|---|---|
Rear seatbelts fitted to class MD1, MD2 and NA vehicles before 1 March 1999 |
|
Replacing a type R1 or R2 seatbelt with a webclamp R1 or R2 seatbelt (eg where Technical bulletin 5 applies) | |
Any modification for the purposes of law enforcement or the provision of emergency services | |
Removal of seatbelts (full or partial) where the seating position has been removed. |
Table 7-5-6. Specific seatbelt exemptions
Key to exemption codes | |
|---|---|
Front out-board seating positions | |
F1 | Seatbelts may be static or single sensitive. |
F2 | Seatbelts may be single sensitive, that is web or vehicle sensitive. |
F3 | Seatbelts may be vehicle sensitive only. |
F4 | Seatbelts may be web sensitive only. |
F5 | Driver’s seatbelt may be approved lap belt. |
Seating positions behind the driver | |
R1 | All seatbelts may be approved lap belts. |
R2 | Forward-facing folding seats may be fitted with approved lap belts. |
R3 | Side-facing folding seats behind the driver are not required to have seatbelts fitted. |
R4 | Rear seats occupied by prisoners are not required to have seatbelts. |
Note Exemptions (other than R4 and F5) are only available for vehicles first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1991.
The following exemptions are applicable only to vehicles first registered in New Zealand before 1 January 1991:
Bedford CF: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: 97360JZ7: 860638, 860640, 860641, 860643, 860644. 97560JZ7: 859025, 859026, 859027, 859029, 859031, 859032, 859035, 860581. 97370JZ7: 855826, 855827, 855835, 855836, 856133, 856769, 856733, 856775, 858021, 858026, 858027, 859127, 858593, 858594, 858596, 858599, 859200, 859469, 859471, 859473, 859474, 859475, 859477, 859479, 859529, 859531, 859533, 859535, 859536, 860163, 860837, 860848, 860938, 860939, 860941, 860944, 862061, 862067. 97G70JZ7: 856782, 860142, 860144, 860147, 860148, 860150, 860152, 861858, 861859, 861860, 861861, 861862, 861863, 861868, 862265, 862266, 862267, 862268, 862270, 862271, 862273, 862274, 862276. 97570JZ7: 853277, 855402, 855405, 855407, 855408, 855409, 855410, 855411, 855412, 856702, 856709, 856711, 856713, 858402, 858404, 858408, 858410, 858641, 858642, 858643, 858644, 859087, 859088, 859089, 959093, 859096, 861456, 861457, 861459, 861953, 861954. 97770JZ7: 851548. 97360JZ7: 800842, 860634, 860644, 861767. 97370JZ7: 851296, 853467, 854403, 854404, 854529, 854836, 855418, 855729, 855734, 855735, 855766, 855826, 856051, 856133, 856261, 856616, 856653, 856769, 856917, 857154, 857157, 858024, 858593, 858594, 859014, 859020, 859024, 859196, 859197, 859474, 859530, 860160, 860848, 860933, 860942, 862061, 862065, 862288, 862458, 862468, 862653, 863080, 863204, 863205, 863208, 863210, 863211, 863212, 864817. 97G70JZ7: 854097, 855062, 855063, 856783, 856790, 857907, 859349, 859350, 859358, 860141, 860142, 860144, 860148, 861858, 861860, 861867, 862265, 862276, 862271. 97560JZ7: 859035. 87570JZ7: 852305, 854309, 854310, 854314, 854319, 854463, 854544, 855774, 855780, 855783, 857463, 857714, 858406, 858412, 861460. 97670JZ7: 860145. 97770JZ7: 852373, 856250
Citroen 2CV: Exemption code R1
Chrysler Avenger: Exemption code R1: Vehicles with model prefix: BP
Daihatsu Charade: Exemption codes F1, R1: Serial numbers: XTE: G10-GMG: 830230, 830331, 830379, 830388, 830402, 830416, 830442, 830453, 830490, 830518, 830540, 830558, 830571, 830579, 830602, 830611, 830631, 830646, 830663, 830672, 830697, 830713, 830733, 830747, 830761, 830792, 830801, 830815, 823244, 823291, 823313, 823428, 831579, 831609, 831630, 831643, 831679, 831747, 831777, 831833, 831849, 831885, 831917, 831963, 831973, 832018, 832064, 854309. XG: G10-GMD: 830280, 830305, 830393, 830510, 830599, 830617, 830654, 830691, 830711, 830719, 830764, 830798, 830820. XG: G10-GKD: 830345, 830526, 830637, 830683, 830770
Daihatsu Delta: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: VT24T-C: 90990, 91015, 91016, 91028, 91029, 91032, 91033, 91054, 91091, 91094-91099, 91100-91128, 91165-91200. V24W-C: 91129, 91131, 91133-91138. S60P: 022366
Daihatsu Rocky: Exemption codes R2, R3: Models: F75RV-BG, F75RV-MBGT and F85-VBG
Datsun 180SX: Exemption code F4: Serial numbers: KHS110: 000074, 000124, 000580, 000583, 000585, 000589, 000591, 000594, 000597, 000603, 000607, 000611, 000615, 000618, 000621, 000624, 000630, 000640, 000644, 000645, 000649, 000651, 000655, 000658, 000660, 000663, 000680, 000687, 000689, 000695, 000697, 0006999
Datsun Cherry: Exemption code F1: Series: BF10
Fiat 128: Exemption code F2: FA289 to FA336
Ford Cortina wagon: Exemption code R1: Serial numbers: CLBNVJ: 35642, 38051, 38052, 38053. CLBNVL: 30889, 31516. CLBNVT: 32987, 32998, 35480, 35488, 35498, 35502, 35503, 35504, 35505, 35507, 35508, 35511, 35514, 35524, 35526, 35532, 35533, 35545, 35581, 36548. CLBNVY: 32881, 32885, 32909, 32925, 32926, 32969
Ford Cortina sedan: Exemption code R1: CLBFVE: 28977, 29656. CLBFVJ: 37727, 37745, 37758, 37761, 37798, 37799, 37808, 37818, 37855, 37890, 37906, 37957, 37958, 37984, 38354, 38373, 38374. CLBFVL: 29738, 30749, 30845, 31404, 31429, 31448, 32172, 32313, 32688. CLBFVY: 30320, 30815, 31448, 32629, 32374, 32391, 32680, 35024, 35030. CLBFVS: 32352, 32361, 32796, 32840, 32844, 32852, 32861, 34220, 34248, 34255, 34258, 34262, 34264, 34265, 34267, 34269, 34272, 34274, 34280, 34296, 34298, 34299, 34310, 34322, 34328, 34341, 34962, 34963, 34986, 35173, 35183, 35233, 35246, 35267, 35271, 35277, 35280, 35281, 35282, 35285, 35291, 35330, 35333, 35340, 35367, 35369, 35370, 35384, 35395, 35396, 35401, 35402, 35407, 35408, 35410, 35411, 35412, 35416, 35419, 35420, 35430, 35434, 35442, 35444, 35450, 35452, 35454, 35457, 35612, 35728, 36589, 36590, 36591, 36593, 36598, 36600, 36604, 36605, 36607, 36608, 36614, 36615, 36616, 36618, 36623, 36630, 36631, 36633, 36892, 36893, 36894, 36896, 36898, 36900, 36901, 36908, 36911, 36921, 37451, 37593, 37595, 37627, 37642. CLBFVT: 35534, 35566, 36539, 36541, 36546, 36547, 36549, 36553, 36554, 36555, 36556, 35564, 36565, 36569, 36571, 36577, 36923, 36925, 36926, 36927, 36929, 36941, 36946, 36950, 36951, 36952, 36953, 36956, 36960, 36964, 36965, 36966, 36972, 36975, 36979, 36980, 36981, 36982, 36983, 3685, 36990, 37641, 37642, 37644, 37645, 37649, 37651, 37652, 37653, 37656, 37657, 37659, 37660, 37661, 37664, 37666, 37670, 37674, 37675, 37676, 37677, 37679, 37680, 37686, 37692, 37694, 37697, 37698, 3799, 37700, 37701, 37702, 37704, 37705, 37706, 37707, 37708, 37710, 37711, 37714, 37716, 37733, 37736, 37737, 37775, 37992, 37994, 37996, 37997, 37999, 38000, 38001, 38002, 38004, 38007, 38008, 38011, 38012, 38013, 38018, 38022, 38024, 38028, 38030, 38032, 38035, 38037, 38038, 38039, 39648. BABFWD: 44439, 44444, 44446, 44449, 44450
Ford Escort wagon: Exemption code R1: Serial numbers: CLADVS: 30987, 30998, 31001, 31018, 31022, 31024, 31025, 31033, 39140. CLADVT: 37320
Holden HZ utility: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: 8N80TJZ7: 0048Z, 00049, 00053, 00059, 00065, 00904, 00907, 00913, 00918, 00923, 00929, 00931, 00934, 00941, 00949, 00950, 00951, 00953, 00954, 00956. 8N80DJZ7: 99950Z, 99956, 99959, 99966, 99969, 99977, 99981, 99984, 99985, 99987, 99991. 8N80JZ7: 00891, 00893, 00898, 00902, 00903, 00905, 00908, 00911, 00916, 00917, 00947, 00948, 00986, 00993, 00996, 01002, 01003, 01008, 01038, 01042, 01062, 01100, 01101, 01102, 01103, 01026, 01050, 01070, 01074, 01090, 01085, 01087, 01092, 01093, 01094, 01152, 99951, 99955. 8N80DJZ7: 98169Z. 8N80LJZ7: 0128Z, 01990Z, 97844Z, 97854Z, 98216Z, 99259Z, 99276Z. 8N80TJZ7: 00051Z, 00893Z, 00922Z, 00932Z, 00946Z, 00957Z, 97107Z
Holden One Ton chassis/cab: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: 8M60JZ7: 01113, 01117, 01121, 01123Z, 01124, 01125, 01136, 01138, 01141, 01142, 01145, 01146, 01169, 98821, 98833, 98846, 98851. 8M60LJZ7: 01105Z, 01124Z, 01136Z, 01141Z, 96554Z, 98725Z, 98801Z, 98857Z, 98861Z, 99902Z
Isuzu Gemini model PF50: Exemption code F3: Serial numbers: 6709544 to 548, 6709806 to 810, 6714557 to 576, 6715252 to 261, 6715835 to 844, 6720255 to 264, 6702417 to 436, 6720675 to 681, 6725925 to 934, 6726142 to 151, 6726286 to 295, 6726536 to 545, 6731789 to 791, 6732010 to 017, 6732219 to 227, 6732425 to 432, 6732635 to 642, 6732826 to 829, 6736172 to 181
Isuzu KAG51 light commercial: Exemption code F1
Isuzu Space cab TFR17HPRRML: Exemption code R1
Isuzu TLD23: Exemption code F1
Kawasaki KAP-300 Mule 500: Exemption code F5
Land Rover all models: Exemption code R3
Mitsubishi L300 all types (includes Delica): Exemption codes F1, R1
Mitsubishi Colt 1400 light commercial: Exemption code F1
Mitsubishi Galant Sigma Estate: Exemption code R1: Any chassis number less than GQ7445 1753
NZ Police prisoner vans: Exemption code R4
Renault Alpine V6 GT D50005: Exemption code R1
Renault Alpine V6 GT Turbo D50105: Exemption code R1
Subaru 1600 GFT: Exemption code R1: Serial numbers: 002019, 002121, 002122, 002123, 002124, 002127, 002128, 002129, 002130, 002131, 002132, 002133, 002134, 002135, 002136, 002137, 002138, 002139, 002140, 002144, 002149, 002150, 002151, 002153, 002158, 002161, 002162, 002163, 002164, 002169, 002172, 002173, 002174, 002175, 002176, 002177, 002178, 002180, 002182, 002183, 002184, 002185, 002186, 002187, 002188, 002191, 002192, 002197, 002201, 002202, 002430, 002431, 002432, 002433, 002436, 002443, 002444, 002446, 002447, 002448, 002449, 002453, 002454, 002455, 002456, 002457, 002458, 002459, 002460, 002461, 002465, 002469, 002470, 002476, 002478
Subaru Domingo van: Exemption code R1: 1986 and 1987 models
Subaru 700 van: Exemption code R1: 1986 and 1987 models
Suzuki ST80: Exemption code F1: ST80 KRA: 0003, 0010, 0034, 0036, 0044, 0049, 0050, 0079, 0096
Suzuki ST90: Exemption code F1: ST90 KRA: 0097 to 0132. ST90 VRA: 0133 to 0493
Toyota Corolla mode: Exemption code F4: Serial numbers: KE 35R-KSB: up to serial number 3681
Toyota Corona estate: Exemption code R1: Serial numbers: TT132RG-TWKDS: up to unit number 781. TT132RG-TWHDS: up to unit number 381
Toyota Dyna chassis/cab: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: RU20R-QRBT3 (petrol): up to serial number 171. RU30R-QRDHT3 (diesel): up to serial number 151
Toyota Hi-Ace van: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: RH20RV-JRE: up to serial number 1381
Toyota Hi-Ace chassis/cab: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: RH11R-JR3: up to serial number 391
Toyota Hilux chassis/cab: Exemption code F1: Serial numbers: RN40R-JRS3: up to serial number 401. RN41R-JR3 up to serial number 171
Toyota Hilux 850 double cab: Exemption code R1: Serial numbers: YN 65: 0002226, 0002916 to 0002925, 0002946 to 0002955, 0002993 to 0003002, 0003235 to 0003264, 0003306 to 0003335, 0003489 to 0003498, 0003733 to 0003742, 0003827 to 0003836, 0003951 to 0003960, 0003994 to 0004003, 0004075 to 0004084.
Toyota Lite Ace: Exemption code R1: Model: KM20RV-JRZ or YM20RV-MR
Figure 7-5-1. Corrosion limits around seatbelt anchorages
>
See also figures for corrosion limits to structure (section 3-1), hinge and latch anchorages (section 6-1), and front or rear suspension anchorages (section 9-1).
Figure 7-5-2. Example of seatbelt declaration: Approved Certifier’s Declaration
Figure 7-5-3. Example of seatbelt declaration: TSD Agent’s Declaration
Figure 7-5-4. Example of plate fitted to a vehicle that may retain single-sensitive front seatbelts
Figure 7-5-5. FS012 Upper seatbelt anchorage request form
Figure 7-5-6. Identifying seatbelts by BVL (Business Ventures Limited) and manufactured by Changzhou BWD, China or Jiang Su Jiu Jiu Traffic Facilities Co. Ltd.
Figure 7-5-7. Examples for seatbelt webbing damage guidance
| Pass | Marginal (see note below) | Fail |
|---|---|---|
Light edge fluff: very little damage to outer weave |
Moderate edge fluff: some damage to outer weave |
Heavy edge fluffing/fraying or pulled ‘tufts’ of thread: outer weave heavily compromised |
Deformation in webbing with no cut threads or significant pulls |
Significant pull in webbing, no cut threads. Pull may start to disappear if webbing is worked |
Cut threads/hole |
Note: If marginal, pass if the belt is still in good condition other than the marginal damage. Advise owner that the seatbelt is worn and recommend a replacement.
Figure 7-5-8. Child restraint indentations on seatbelt webbing
The following examples of damage to seatbelt webbing from certain types of child restraints should be passed for WoF and CoF purposes, assuming no threads are cut.
 |  |  |
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A motor vehicle must be fitted with seatbelts (for seating positions) as specified in Table 7-5-1, Table 7-5-2 and Table 7-5-3, or as specified for specific vehicles in Table 7-5-4, or as specified in requirement 2 below, unless an exemption in Table 7-5-5 applies.
2. A seat that can be rotated or reversed to face in different directions: if seatbelts are not provided for all directions, a notice easily visible by the seat occupant must be placed inside the vehicle, indicating the direction the seat must face so that a seatbelt may be worn while the vehicle is moving.
Permitted equipment
3. A vehicle fitted with a seatbelt and seatbelt anchorage in a position where these are not required must meet the condition and performance requirements for seatbelts and seatbelt anchorages.
Condition
Seatbelts (see Figure 7-5-7)
4. A seatbelt must be of a design suitable for the vehicle, and must be strong, secure and in sound condition.
5. Seatbelt webbing must not be cut, stretched, frayed or faded, or have otherwise deteriorated so as to reduce the performance of the seatbelt.
6. Seatbelt webbing must be securely attached to the tongue or the adjusting buckle and to any fittings that secure a seatbelt to the seatbelt anchorages.
7. The strands of the steel cables of a seatbelt stalk must not be damaged or have deteriorated, and the seatbelt stalk must not have any other weaknesses that could reduce its performance.
8. Seatbelt buckles, retractor mechanisms or any other fittings intended to ensure the safe use of the seatbelt must not have deteriorated below safe tolerance.
Seatbelt anchorages
9. A seatbelt anchorage and its mounting location:
a) must be of a strength appropriate to both the motor vehicle and the attached seatbelt
b) must be structurally sound and free of corrosion, and
c) must not be damaged or distorted.
10. When a seatbelt or part of a seatbelt is integral to a seat, the seat and seat anchorages must be compatible in strength with the seatbelt or with that part of the seatbelt attached to the seat.
Performance
11. A seatbelt must be in good working order.
12. A seatbelt must be able to be adjusted by the wearer.
13. A seatbelt must be able to be readily fastened and released by the wearer.
Modification
14. A seatbelt must not have been modified (Note 14) since 1 January 1992, except where:
a) the modification is approved by the seatbelt or vehicle manufacturer
b) the seatbelt has been modified temporarily to accommodate a child restraint, provided the modification:
i. does not affect the performance of the child restraint, and
ii. is not likely to cause injury to a vehicle occupant, and
iii. does not cause damage to the seatbelt.
15. The fitting of an alternative type of seatbelt (Note 15) or a modification that affects a seatbelt anchorage must be inspected and certified by an LVV specialist certifier, unless the vehicle is:
a) excluded from the requirement for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-5-5), and
b) has been inspected in accordance with the requirements in this manual, including those for equipment, condition and performance.
Page amended 1 October 2022 (see amendment details).
7-6 Frontal impact airbags
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A deployed frontal impact airbag has not been replaced.
2. An OE airbag warning light system has been removed from a vehicle fitted with airbags.
3. A motor vehicle has a sign, light or other device that indicates the vehicle is fitted with an airbag when it is not fitted with an airbag.
Condition and performance
4. An airbag cover:
a) is damaged, or
b) has deteriorated (does not include deterioration of the dash surface due to the effects of sunlight), or
c) shows signs of tampering or inadequate repair.
5. Additional equipment has been fitted that may affect the proper performance of the airbag.
6. The airbag warning light:
a) does not operate, or
b) indicates a fault in the system.
Modification
7. A modification (Note 2) affects an airbag system (eg an airbag has been removed, or made inoperable, including retrofitting a switch), and:
a) is not excluded from the requirements for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-6-1), and
b) is missing proof of LVV specialist or accepted overseas certification, ie:
i. the vehicle is not fitted with a valid LVV certification plate, or
ii. the operator is not able to produce a valid modification declaration or authority card, or
iii. the vehicle has not been certified to an accepted overseas system as described in Technical bulletin 13.
8. A motor vehicle that has had an airbag system removed or made inoperable and been certified as above does not:
a) have all OE signs, lights, or other devices that indicated the vehicle was fitted with an airbag removed, or
b) if the signs, lights, or other devices cannot be readily removed, have a label that indicates an airbag has been removed permanently attached in a prominent location where it is clearly visible to any occupant of the seating position that was previously protected by the airbag.
Note 1 Definitions
Modify means to change a vehicle from its original state by altering, substituting, adding or removing a structure, system, component or equipment, but does not include repair.
Repair means to restore a damaged or worn vehicle, its structure, systems, components or equipment to within safe tolerance of its condition when manufactured, including replacement with undamaged or new structures, systems, components or equipment.
Note 2
Some modifications are permitted, but they must always be LVV certified. The only modifications permitted are:
1. fitting a switch to render an airbag temporarily inoperable, and
2. the removal or permanent deactivation of an airbag in a vehicle that:
- is at least 14 years old, or
- has been adapted for a person with a disability, or
- has been extensively modified for motorsport use.
Table 7-6-1. Modifications that do not require LVV certification
Fitting of or modification to: | LVV certification is never required: |
|---|---|
Any modification for the purposes of law enforcement or the provision of emergency services |
|
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A frontal impact airbag and its operating system must remain operational if the vehicle was originally manufactured with a frontal impact airbag.
2. An airbag warning light system must remain operational if it was fitted by the vehicle manufacturer.
3. A motor vehicle must not have a sign, light, or other device that indicates the vehicle is fitted with an airbag if it is not fitted with an airbag.
4. A motor vehicle must not have a light or other device indicating an airbag operating system is operable if it is inoperable.
Permitted equipment
5. A switch may be installed as OE to render an airbag temporarily inoperable.
Condition and performance
6. An airbag and its operating system must be safe and in good condition.
7. An airbag warning light fitted by the manufacturer must remain operational.
Modification
8. A motor vehicle that has had an airbag removed or made inoperable must either:
a) have all OE signs lights, or other devices that indicated the vehicle was fitted with an airbag removed, or
b) if the signs, lights, or other devices cannot be readily removed, have a label that indicates an airbag has been removed permanently attached in a prominent location where it is clearly visible to any occupant of the seating position that was previously protected by the airbag.
9. A modification that affects an airbag system must be inspected and certified by an LVV specialist certifier, unless the vehicle is:
a) excluded from the requirement for LVV specialist certification (Table 7-6-1), and
b) has been inspected in accordance with the requirements in this manual, including those for equipment, condition and performance.
Page amended 1 December 2016 (see amendment details).
7-7 Interior impact
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. An outdoor-access vehicle is not fitted with energy-absorbent material on all the interior surfaces that could come into contact with the occupants when the vehicle is vigorously manoeuvring or in a crash.
2. A motor vehicle that entered service as a PSV in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 is not fitted with energy-absorbent material to:
a) the tops of exposed partitions, which are less than 1.2m high, situated in front of seats, or
b) the tops of seats, except in the following limited areas:
i. at the upper corners of seat backs which are dedicated handholds and which are integrated parts of the seat frames
ii. where the upper point of a lap-and-diagonal seatbelt is fitted.
Condition and performance
3. Refer to general vehicle pages.
4. Energy-absorbent material is missing, damaged or has deteriorated to the extent that the likelihood of injury to passengers is increased.
Modifications
5. Refer to general vehicle pages.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. If the vehicle is an outdoor-access vehicle it must be fitted with energy-absorbent material on the interior surfaces that could come into contact with the occupants when the vehicle is vigorously manoeuvring or in a crash.
2. A motor vehicle that entered service as a PSV in New Zealand on or after 1 July 2000 must be fitted with energy-absorbent material to:
a) the tops of exposed partitions, which are less than 1.2m high, situated in front of seats, and
b) the tops of seats, except in a limited area:
i. at the upper corners of seat backs which are dedicated handholds and which are integrated parts of the seat frames, or
ii. to which the upper point of a lap-and-diagonal seatbelt is fitted.
Condition and performance
4. Refer to general vehicle pages.
Page amended 29 April 2020 (see amendment details)
7-8 PSV heating and ventillation
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A PSV does not have ventilation that is provided by at least one of the following:
a) opening windows or roof hatches,
b) forced ventilation.
2. The driver does not have at least one independently adjustable means of ventilation.
Condition and performance
3. A window or roof hatch used for ventilation cannot be easily opened.
4. A forced ventilation system:
a) does not operate, or
b) has insufficient air flow.
5. An interior heating system is installed in a way that does not minimise the risk of occupants being burned.
6. The operation of an interior heating, ventilation or air-conditioning system introduces harmful gases into the vehicle.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A PSV must have ventilation that is provided by:
a) opening windows or roof hatches, or
b) forced ventilation.
2. The driver must have at least one independently adjustable means of ventilation.
Condition and performance
3. The ventilation system must provide adequate ventilation throughout the length of the passenger compartment.
4. An interior heating system must be installed in a way that will minimise the risk of occupants being burned.
5. An interior heating or air-conditioning system must be designed and constructed so that no harmful fumes associated with its operation can be introduced into the vehicle.
6. Ventilation air intakes must be in a position which minimises the possibility of introducing exhaust gases or other harmful fumes into the passenger compartment.
7-9 PSV fire protection
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory and permitted equipment
Fire extinguishers
1. A PSV that has more than 12 seating positions is not equipped with a fire extinguisher.
2. The fire extinguishers in a PSV with more than 12 seating positions are not appropriate for:
a) the size of the vehicle, or
b) the materials used in the construction of the vehicle, or
c) the type of fuel used, eg a trolley bus has a fire extinguisher filled with water.
3. A passenger compartment (Note 1) that has more than 12 seating positions does not have at least one fire extinguisher.
4. A fire extinguisher does not have clear and simple operating instructions, in English or with pictorial symbols, attached to it.
5. A PSV required to have a fire extinguisher does not have a fire extinguisher located near the driver:
a) that is also clearly visible to passengers, or
b) where there is clearly visible signage that indicates its location to passengers.
6. If a fire extinguisher is located within a closed container, the container does not:
a) have a cover that is readily removable or breakable by a passenger, or
b) clearly display instructions that explain how to access the fire extinguisher in an emergency, or
c) enable a driver to confirm that the fire extinguisher is present by:
i. being sufficiently transparent to enable a clear view of the fire extinguisher; or
ii. being equipped with an audible or visual alarm system that alerts the driver if the extinguisher is not in place when the vehicle’s engine is running.
Condition and performance
Fire extinguishers
7. A fire extinguisher:
a) does not have a date of inspection recorded on or near the fire extinguisher, or
b) is past its specified re-inspection period (usually printed on the extinguisher), or
c) is not within six months of the last recorded inspection, where no re-inspection period is specified, or
d) is showing ‘low’ on its charge indicator, or
e) is not sealed, that is it may have been discharged and needs recharging or replacement.
Note 1
Compartment, for the purposes of fire extinguishers, means
a) the separated driver's compartment
b) the upper and lower passenger compartments of a double-decked vehicle
c) the front and rear sections of the passenger compartment of an articulated bus
d) the passenger compartment of a single-decked non-articulated bus.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
Fire extinguishers
1. A PSV that has more than 12 seating positions must be equipped with fire extinguishers that are appropriate for:
a) the size of the vehicle, and
b) the materials used in the construction of the vehicle, and
c) the type of fuel used.
2. Every passenger compartment (Note 1) must have at least one fire extinguisher if that passenger compartment has more than 12 seating positions.
3. Clear and simple operating instructions, in English or with pictorial symbols, must be attached to each fire extinguisher.
4. One of the fire extinguishers must be located near the driver, and must:
a) be clearly visible to passengers; or
b) have clearly visible signage that indicates its location to passengers.
5. If a fire extinguisher is located within a closed container, the container must:
a) have a cover that is readily removable or breakable by a passenger; and
b) clearly display instructions that explain how to access the fire extinguisher in an emergency; and
c) enable a driver to confirm that the fire extinguisher is present by:
i. being sufficiently transparent to enable a clear view of the fire extinguisher; or
ii. being equipped with an audible or visual alarm system that alerts the driver if the extinguisher is not in place when the vehicle’s engine is running.
Condition and performance
Fire extinguishers
6. A fire extinguisher must be:
a) inspected regularly as is appropriate for the particular make and model of fire extinguisher, and the date of the inspection must be recorded on or near the fire extinguisher, and
b) sealed so it is clearly apparent if it has been discharged and needs recharging or replacement.
Page amended 1 October 2012 (see amendment details).
7-10 PSV signs and instructions
Reasons for rejection
Condition and performance
1. A sign or instruction is:
a) not in a simple typeface, or
b) not in a colour which contrasts with the background of the sign, or
c) obscured by other fittings, or
d) incomplete, or
e) illegible.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Condition and performance
1. Signs and instructions:
a) must be in a simple typeface, and
b) must be in a colour which contrasts with the background of the sign, and
c) must not be obscured by other fittings.
7-11 PSV emergency passenger signals
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A vehicle in which direct communication between the passengers and driver is restricted by a partition, obstruction or for some other reason, has no other form of communication between the passengers and the driver in case of emergency (Note 1).
Condition and performance
2. An emergency communication system between passengers and driver:
a) is in poor condition, or
b) does not operate as intended.
Note 1
This does not include signalling equipment designed to indicate to the driver that a passenger wishes to alight at the next stop.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. If direct communication with the driver is restricted by a partition, obstruction or for some other reason, signalling equipment must be installed to provide the passengers with some other form of communication with the driver in case of emergency.
7-12 Speedometer
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 December 1951 that is capable of a speed exceeding 50km/h is not fitted with a speedometer, and the vehicle operator cannot produce acceptable written evidence (Note 2) that:
a) the speedometer has been removed for repair, or
b) there are no undue delays by the vehicle owner in having the speedometer replaced.
Condition and performance
2. The speedometer:
a) does not operate as intended when the vehicle is moving forward (Note 3), or
b) is obscured from the driver’s position, or
c) does not indicate the vehicle’s speed in km/h or mph.
3. Reason for rejection 2(a), 2(b) or 2(c) applies and the vehicle operator cannot produce acceptable written evidence (Note 2) that repair of the speedometer or associated equipment is impracticable or that a suitable replacement is not available.
Note 1
Speedometer means an instrument in a motor vehicle that continuously indicates to the driver the forward speed of the vehicle in either kilometres per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph). For clarification: This definition does not include the speed provided by a GPS system.
Note 2
Acceptable written evidence is documentation provided by the speedometer repairer or supplier. A copy of the documentation must be kept on file with the checksheet.
Note 3
If an odometer is not fitted, not working or unable to be read an appropriate note must be entered into the ‘Comments’ section of the checksheet and '000001' entered into the odometer field of the checksheet and '000001' entered into WoF online or LANDATA. This may display as “1” on some screens.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A vehicle first registered in New Zealand on or after 1 December 1951 that is capable of a speed exceeding 50km/h must be fitted with a speedometer (Note 1).
2. A vehicle is not required to have a speedometer if the speedometer or associated equipment:
a) has been removed for repair and there are no undue delays by the vehicle owner in having it replaced, or
b) is out of repair, repair is impracticable and a suitable replacement is not available.
Condition and performance
3. The speedometer must be in good working order and operate while the vehicle is moving forward.
Modification
4. A speedometer that is affected by a modification:
a) must meet the requirements for equipment, condition and performance, and
b) does not require LVV specialist certification.
7-13 Audible warning devices
Reasons for rejection
Mandatory equipment
1. A motor vehicle is:
a) not fitted with a horn, or
b) fitted with a bell or whistle (Note 2), or
c) not an emergency vehicle (Note 1) and is fitted with a siren (Note 2).
2. A horn cannot be easily operated from the driver’s seating position.
Performance
3. The horn does not operate when activated.
4. The horn operates when not activated.
5. The sound from the horn is not steady and continuous, eg the horn plays a tune.
6. The horn is not audible at a distance of 100 m.
7. A siren fitted to an emergency vehicle operates when not activated.
Note 1
Emergency vehicle means a vehicle used for the attendance of emergencies and operated:
a) by an enforcement officer, or
b) by an ambulance service, or
c) as a fire service vehicle, or
d) as a civil defence emergency vehicle, or
e) as a New Zealand Defence Force emergency vehicle.
Note 2
A vehicle may be fitted with a bell, whistle or siren that is part of an anti-theft car alarm, personal security alarm or reversing warning device.
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment
1. A vehicle must be fitted with a device (horn) that is audible to other road users.
Permitted equipment
2. A vehicle may be fitted with a bell, whistle or siren only as follows:
a) a siren fitted to an emergency vehicle (Note 1), or
b) a siren, bell or whistle that is part of an anti-theft car alarm, personal security alarm or a reversing warning device.
Performance
3. The device must be in good working order.
4. The device must be capable of giving a warning that is audible under normal traffic conditions from a distance of at least 100 m.
Modification
5. An audible warning device that is affected by a modification:
a) must meet the requirements for equipment and performance, and
b) does not require LVV specialist certification.