What we do
We administer and maintain the Motor Vehicle Traders Register in New Zealand. We also investigate some non-compliance and MVSA offences, and maintain a public list of banned persons.
Registering motor vehicle traders
We administer and maintain the Motor Vehicle Traders Register in New Zealand. The register holds essential information about registered motor vehicle traders and their business. Traders can register, and maintain and renew their registration, via this website.
Apply to register as a motor vehicle trader
The Motor Vehicle Sales Act explains who must register as a motor vehicle trader.
Anyone can search the Register to find out if a motor vehicle trader is registered.
Investigating trader activities
We investigate offences against the Motor Vehicle Sales Act, including odometer tampering, and motor vehicle traders who are trading illegally.
Other complaints about vehicle purchases are handled by agencies such as the Commerce Commission and the Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal.
Banned persons
There are a number of activities that can result in a trader being banned from trading in motor vehicles, such as trading within 5 years of a dishonesty conviction, or failing to comply with Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal orders.
The Act requires us to maintain a public list of banned persons. This lists individuals and companies that are currently banned.