Import a Car from New Zealand to Australia
Prestige Car Imports helps Australians source and import vehicles from New Zealand. We assist with finding the right car, checking its history and condition, arranging inspections, handling payment securely and managing the entire import process through to compliance and getting the vehicle on the road in Australia.
New Zealand offers a strong supply of right-hand-drive vehicles, Japanese imports and 25+ year old enthusiast and classic cars, with shipping that is generally quicker than many other overseas markets.
Why Import From New Zealand?
Close to Australia
New Zealand is one of the closest overseas markets to Australia. Once a vehicle has been purchased, the import process can often take around 10 weeks from purchase to being ready to drive in Australia, depending on shipping and compliance.
Huge RHD & JDM market
New Zealand has a large supply of right-hand-drive vehicles, including many cars originally imported from Japan. This gives buyers access to a broad range of enthusiast, performance and classic vehicles.
Climate & choice
New Zealand’s climate can make it an attractive alternative to some overseas markets where severe corrosion is a major concern. Condition still varies from vehicle to vehicle, which is why we recommend inspecting and checking the history before purchase.
Why Import With Prestige Car Imports?
Australian based
Prestige Car Imports is based in Melbourne, Australia.
New Zealand contacts
We have contacts across New Zealand who assist with inspections and vehicle checks.
Vehicle inspections
Where practical, we can arrange inspections before purchase.
History checks
We can help confirm ownership history, finance owing, stolen status, odometer history, registration history, accident/write-off information, VIN details and available service history.
Seller verification
We help confirm the vehicle exists and verify the seller before funds are sent.
Complete process assistance
We assist from sourcing through to shipping, customs, quarantine, compliance and getting the vehicle on the road.
How Importing From New Zealand Works
Tell us the vehicle you are considering, or what you are looking for. We inspect and check history where practical, help with a secure purchase, then help with shipping, customs, quarantine, compliance and getting the vehicle on the road.
1
Talk to us
Tell us what vehicle you are considering or what you are looking for.
2
Engage Prestige Car Imports
When you are ready to proceed with sourcing or inspection work, the $1,190 AUD engagement/deposit fee becomes payable.
3
Find the vehicle
We can help source from Trade Me, private sellers, dealers, Facebook Marketplace and specialist sellers.
4
Inspection & history checks
Where practical, we arrange an inspection and check the available history before you decide whether to proceed.
5
Negotiate & approve
We help communicate with the seller where required. You approve the vehicle and purchase before we proceed.
6
Purchase
We assist with arranging payment securely, whether the vehicle is being purchased from a private seller or dealer.
7
Shipping & import
We arrange inland transport where required, export, shipping, customs, quarantine and other applicable requirements.
8
Compliance & on the road
We help arrange Australian compliance and the process of getting the vehicle ready for registration in your state.
Typically around 10 weeks from purchase in New Zealand to being road-ready in Australia, depending on shipping and compliance.
Finding a Car in New Zealand
Trade Me is one of the main places we source vehicles from in New Zealand, but we can also assist with private sellers, dealers, specialist dealers and Facebook Marketplace. If you have already found a vehicle, send us the listing and we can help assess the car, the seller and the import process before you commit.
Inspections & Vehicle History
We can arrange inspections across much of New Zealand through our local contacts, with the best coverage in the major cities. Before recommending that a client proceed, we can also help review the available vehicle history and background information.
Ownership history
Finance owing
Stolen vehicle status
Odometer history
Registration history
Accident or write-off information
VIN checks
Available service history
Finance owing
Stolen vehicle status
Odometer history
Registration history
Accident or write-off information
VIN checks
Available service history
History checks are an important part of assessing a vehicle, but they are not a substitute for inspecting the actual car where an inspection can be arranged.
What Cars Can You Import From New Zealand?
Not every vehicle can be imported into Australia. Eligibility depends on the actual vehicle.
Vehicles 25 years or older may be eligible under the rolling 25-year import pathway, subject to the applicable requirements.
Many newer vehicles are only eligible if they appear on the federal Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles (SEVS) approved list or another applicable import pathway.
If the car you want is not on the list and is not 25 years old, still ask — some vehicles can be imported another way.
If you are unsure whether a specific vehicle is eligible, send us the make, model and year before purchasing and we can help check the available import pathway.
What Does It Cost to Import From New Zealand?
There is no single landed price. The NZD purchase price, exchange rate, inland New Zealand transport, shipping, customs/clearance, duty where it applies, GST, luxury car tax where it applies, compliance, our fee and your state on-road costs all change the total.
When you are ready to begin sourcing or inspection work, the initial engagement/deposit payment is $1,190 AUD. Prestige Car Imports’ total fee depends on the vehicle and the transaction. You pay in stages as invoices fall due, rather than everything up front.
Estimates do not include state roadworthy, registration or stamp duty.
Import cost example
Ferrari 348
A vehicle Prestige Car Imports helped import from New Zealand. Figures below are from this example. Note: this is an estimate, not a quote. Exchange rate used: 1 AUD = 1.20 NZD.
| Car cost | NZD $125,000 |
| Exchange rate | 1 AUD = 1.20 NZD |
| Vehicle value in AUD | A$104,166.67 |
| Shipping, customs, heat treatment and BAF | A$5,500 |
| 5% duty | A$5,208.33 |
| CIF | A$114,875 |
| 10% GST | A$11,487.50 |
| Landed incl. GST | A$126,362.50 |
| Luxury Car Tax (LCT) | A$13,738.65 |
| Compliance | A$2,200 |
| Prestige Car Imports fee | A$4,990 |
| TOTAL | A$147,291.15 |
Estimate Import Costs
Use our New Zealand Import Cost Calculator to estimate the landed cost based on the vehicle price, then contact us for a more detailed estimate on the actual car.
Prestige Car Imports
Unit 4/43-45 Launceston St, Williamstown
-
This was the first car I’ve imported. I was really uneasy about importing a car. I reached out to Prestage Car Imports through an add on Facebook and Dyson was the person that answered. He was very professional and upfront about the … More process what was involved and most importantly the time frame it was going to take. After that initial phone call I knew Prestage Car Imports were the people I was going to go with. I didn’t even bother contacting anyone else. I was still very hesitant about going through with importing a car. In the end I bit the bullet and done it. Now that I have the vehicle in my possession I’m very happy and pleased with the condition of the car. A big thank you to Dyson and Tayla for the dedication and work. I would highly recommend Prestage Car Imports. This won’t be my only import.
Ben Campbell -
Dyson is knowledgeable and I definitely never felt that he was annoyed by my questions or repeated messages, he's always accommodating and respectful. He's a true businessman.
You can text him anytime and he always came back to … More me.
I initially approached him for a certain car but he showed me that it cannot be imported and directed me to a different car.
Car arrived safely and I drove it with pleasure, he wasn't bothered that I chose my own compliance warehouse in Sydney as my ones can do cars within 48 hours, very quick.
Downsides, car required a set of tyres, a new battery and service, but that is reasonable and can be expected.
Overall, I would recommend Dyson if you want to buy from Japanese auctions, as he had best prices so far. Doesn't matter which state you're in, Dyson is able to help -
Review
I recently purchased a car from Prestige Cars and couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the beginning, the Dyson and Tayla was friendly, professional and easy to deal with. There was no pressure, and everything was explained … More clearly throughout the process.
The car was exactly as described, the whole process was smooth and straightforward, and the team went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of.
I would definitely recommend Prestige Cars to anyone looking for a quality vehicle and a dealership that genuinely cares about its customers. I’d happily buy from them again. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -
Just wanted to give a huge shoutout to Dyson and the team at Prestige Car Imports.
I recently purchased an R35 GT-R from Japan, and the whole experience was far easier than I ever expected. Importing a car can seem pretty daunting when … More you're doing it for the first time, but Dyson guided me through every step and was always available to answer questions and provide updates.
Communication was excellent from start to finish, and I always felt confident that everything was being handled properly. The car arrived exactly as described and exceeded my expectations.
If you're thinking about importing a car from Japan, I'd highly recommend talking to Dyson. He's knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cares about helping you find the right car.
Couldn't be happier with my GT-R and the service I received. Thanks again, Dyson! -
Here’s a polished Google review that sounds genuine and highlights the key points you mentioned:
I had an excellent experience with Prestige Car Imports when importing my 2021 Toyota Crown RS Advance. From the very beginning, they were … More professional, transparent, and incredibly easy to deal with.
They initially advised that the process would take around 3–4 months from the auction date, but I had my car delivered in just 2.5 months, which exceeded my expectations. The final cost was also within the indicative budget they had provided, with no surprises along the way.
What really stood out was their communication. They kept me updated throughout the entire process, were always on top of everything, and I never had to chase them for updates. Their professionalism and honesty made the whole experience completely stress-free.
I highly recommend Prestige Car Imports to anyone looking to import a vehicle. I wouldn’t hesitate to use their services again in the future! -
Dyson was really great to deal with, was able to answer any question I had. He was attentive to anything that was needed in regards to import papers to picking the right car and getting compliance sorted.
-
Absolutely amazing service from Prestige Car Imports! Dyson made the whole import process incredibly easy and stress-free. His communication was outstanding, and the car arrived exactly as described. You can tell he genuinely cares about … More his customers. I couldn't be happier with my purchase and highly recommend Prestige Car Imports to anyone looking to import a car!
-
Dyson, Daniel and Tayla know the true definition of exceptional customer service. They went above and beyond for my needs and are always very responsive to messages. For the whole importing process all 3x of them have dealt each step with … More grace. I am very keen on importing more cars with you in the future. Thanks guys!
-
Dyson was very helpful through the whole importation process and made it smooth and easy. Communication was great and would always get back very quickly to answer any questions big or small.
Would highly recommend using Prestige if your … More looking at importing a car. Absolutely love mine! -
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
An outstanding experience from start to finish. Dyson is 100% dedicated and made importing a vehicle from Japan smooth, easy, with great communication, honest advice and attention to detail throughout.
The vehicle arrived exactly … More as described and exceeded expectations. Highly recommend Dyson to anyone considering importing a vehicle - you’ll be in very capable hands. -
Super smooth process and great communication every step of the way. 100% would definitely recommend.
-
Imported dream car from UK. Highly professional and personalised service from inspection, port delivery, shipping, customs, compliance to registratiin. Many thanks ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-
Recently had the pleasure of meeting Dyson as he imported my boyfriend’s dream WRX, really down to earth guy and very professional, only wanting the best for his clients. Would rate him a 10 if I could!!
-
I had the pleasure of importing my GDA 06 WRX through Dyson and Tayla, and to be completely honest, I couldn’t have had a better experience. I wouldn’t consider any other importer.
Dyson is extremely patient and takes his time to walk … More you through the process of importing a car He’s very down to earth and is very knowledgeable when it comes to the trade.
The compliance process was also seamless—Tayla handled it extremely well, and I’m happy with how quick it was. I will 100% be going with Prestige Car Imports for my next car without a question! Thank you for the amazing customer service!! -
I couldn’t recommend Prestige Car Imports highly enough. From my first enquiry right through to delivery Dyson has gone above and beyond my wildest expectations, from helping to source a high quality vehicle, negotiations, import logistics … More and compliance.
Dyson is impressively responsive and always keeps you informed with progress and any questions you might have.
Massive thank you to Dyson & Tayla at Prestige Car Imports. -
Recently used prestige car imports to get my Ferrari 612 Scaglietti imported from Hong Kong. Was a great experience with no complaints whatsoever, everything was very well explained and documented making me feel very comfortable during … More the whole experience. Many photos and updates were given throughout and I never had to go chasing any information. The car arrived exactly as explained and I absolutely love it. Will definitely be using these guys again 🙏
-
Great experience getting my Toyota Crown through Dyson at Prestige Car Imports. Clear communication, no pressure, and everything went smoothly. Couldn’t be happier with the car or the service. Highly recommend!
-
Amazing service from Dyson! I emailed him regarding importing a particular car (Toyota Corolla Touring WxB) which he had answered every question and concern I had all in thorough detail which helped me out so much! I highly recommend Prestige … More Imports even if you just have a few questions to ask, couldn’t thank him enough for his time and help. Definitely will be getting my future imports through him 🥰
-
-
Amazing service from start to finish. Dyson and Tayla were extremely responsive via WhatsApp and were an absolute pleasure to deal with. The team sourced the exact car I was after, secured it at a great price and handled all paperwork efficiently … More with no delays. The whole process was smooth, transparent and stress-free. I'd highly recommend Prestige Car Imports and look forward to importing more cars with them in the future!
-
Thank you to Dyson, Tayla and the team for the insanely smooth process of importing my new Toyota Crown GWS224.
The service provided was amazing. From the first enquiry, Dyson thoroughly and promptly ran me through the importing process … More and answered any questions I had. I had a lot of confidence in Prestige Car Import's services after the initial chat - more so than with other importers I enquired with.
After paying the broker's fee, the team got to work on sourcing the model I was after. Within 5 days, we found one I was happy with, won the bid at a great price and made payment to the seller.
All paper and admin work was handled promptly ensuring there were no delays. These guys are efficient, thorough and transparent. Exactly what you want when importing a car.
The car arrived in spectacular condition and I am still stunned about just how easy the entire process was (and this was all done without even meeting the team or going to the businesses address.)
I highly recommend Prestige Car Imports. It was all just too easy! -
Dyson and his team have been incredible in helping me with my first time importing a vehicle. He made the process extremely easy and understandable, and was there to help with every step along the way, from purchasing the car to compliance … More and registration. Being able to view the auctions on his website was very useful. Dyson was very kind and patient in helping me find the right car for my budget, letting me know of sub-par dealers, organising inspections on dealer and auction cars to confirm their condition, and never pushed/rushed me to purchase or bid on a car, to make sure I was getting the best car for my budget. I can't thank Dyson and his team enough for how pleasant they have made my first experience importing a car. They will definitely be my first choice if I import another vehicle in the future.
-
-
Fantastic Service ! Having dealt with Dyson regarding the importation of a vehicle from the UK to Australia the communication & professionalism was simply outstanding . I would not hesitate in recommending and hope to do business … More again in the future.
-
Ive had an excellent experience from Dyson and the team at Prestige. The import process was an absolute breeze and the level of communication given every step of the way from Prestige has been outstanding and thats why I think Prestige … More is the best in the game. I
would highly reccomend these guys to anyone.
Thanks guys 🙏 -
Dyson’s committed attitude to customer service is second to none. He went above and beyond multiple times and was crucial in making my child hood dream come true and found the perfect car for me, a gated manual 2004 Gallardo that was in … More my budget. Communication was clear and consistent all the way through the process of importing the car. He took care of everything and made my first experience in importing my own vehicle and easy one. I would and will recommend prestige to anyone and everyone and If I ever need to import another vehicle in the future I will always return to prestige. Thank you Dyson!
-
Dyson has been a great help. Very patient, understanding and helpful with my endless questions. He has been very forthcoming with any info or image requests. Im looking forward to hopefully closing a deal with him in the near future! Thanks, … More Dyson.
-
I have spoken to Dyson previously. Although I have North purchased a car yet he has been very informative and helpful in answering my questions.
-
Can’t recommend Dyson and the team at prestige car imports enough
I thought it would be near impossible to find the exact crown I wanted especially in the immaculate condition this one’s in, I didn’t think I’d find one that could meet my … More ridiculously high standards, but he found me one in a surprisingly short amount of time and helped me every step of the way from winning the auction and importing and sorting out compliance and making sure everything went smoothly and answering every question I had
They’re extremely knowledgeable and helpful and I’d recommend them to anyone thinking about importing a car I wouldn’t use anyone else
Thanks again to Dyson and the team for finding the perfect car and going above and beyond organising and helping with everything -
Don’t be hesitate import a car from him.he has wide dealer connection every where in the world.
-
Dyson is an absolute top bloke, he made the import process nice and simple, quick and easy. As it was my first time importing it was very daunting but with a bit of patience Dyson found me the perfect car that i was looking for. I will … More definitely be importing through Prestige Car Imports again.
-
I recently imported a Toyota Crown from Japan through Dyson at Prestige Car Imports. The process was smooth, and Dyson's expertise was evident throughout. My Crown arrived in amazing condition - it's honestly the best car I've … More driven, a significant upgrade from my previous Nissan Skyline.
Dyson was professional, kept me well-informed, and handled all aspects of the import efficiently. For anyone considering importing a car, I highly recommend Dyson's services at Prestige Car Imports. Overall, it was an excellent experience. -
Just want to extend a massive thank you to Dyson for finding and delivering out my unicorn 1999 Toyota JZX100 Mark II. Three other import agents told me they don’t bother looking for these cars anymore because they’re hard to find in good … More condition as I was aware of. I called Dyson and the man delivered. Took delivery not too long ago. If you’re looking for someone that knows their craft, has all the right contacts and stays with you every step of the way then drops your car to your doorstep with everything handled this is your guy!!
Owe Dyson big time! Thanks so much brother, forever grateful! Wish I could add another three stars to the rating! -
First time I ever import a car and was always worry about the process, Dyson was so professional and explained everything down to the last detail and made me feel confident and comfortable with the process.
His professionalism and fast … More responses made this a very pleasant process from start to finish.
Also he was very specific with the specifications and price range I had to work with and found me the perfect car
Absolutely love the car amazing deal and over the moon with everything.
Highly recommend Dyson and will be using him again in the near future for another import and also recommending to all my friends and family members.
Keep up the amazing work mate, love your work ethic. 🤩❤️ -
I was in touch with Dyson after seeing an add on instagram. Sent him an email with what I was looking for and within a day, the car I have been looking for was for sale at auction.
The process was unreasonably smooth with the purchase … More and 4 months later, I am now driving my dream car.
Couldn’t recommend Prestige Car Imports any higher! Definitely getting my future cars the same way. -
Dyson has been the very accomodating, understanding, transparent and straightforward throughout my whole experience with Prestige Car Imports.
From my initial call for a viewing till the end process of having the car on the road, Dyson … More was on top of everything and always making sure that everything was smooth sailing.
it was my first time purchasing a car of this calibre and I had a lot of worries and lack of knowledge with the processes but Dyson was an absolute champion all throughout, making sure I’m well informed about everything.
Another big thing I appreciate a lot is that.. Dyson is a very very busy man but he’ll always find time to answer any of my queries/questions.. sometimes even on ungodly times.(sorry and thank you Dyson haha)
It is also very hard to miss it… You can definitely see his burning passion for cars and his drive to share that to everyone else.
I would definitely recommend Dyson to anyone looking to get their hands on their dream import car.
Facebook reviews
Common Questions About Importing From New Zealand
Yes, where the vehicle is eligible. Prestige Car Imports helps Australians source, inspect, purchase and import vehicles from New Zealand through to compliance and getting the car on the road.
Typically around 10 weeks from purchase in New Zealand to being road-ready in Australia, depending on shipping and compliance. New Zealand is one of the closer overseas markets, so shipping is generally quicker than many other countries.
Where practical, yes. We have contacts across New Zealand who assist with inspections and vehicle checks, with the best coverage in the major cities. You get the condition information before you decide whether to proceed.
Yes. We can help review ownership history, finance owing, stolen status, odometer history, registration history, accident or write-off information, VIN details and available service history. History checks are important, but they are not a substitute for inspecting the actual car where an inspection can be arranged.
Eligibility depends on the actual vehicle. Vehicles 25 years or older may qualify under the rolling 25-year pathway, subject to the applicable requirements. Many newer vehicles are only eligible if they appear on the federal SEVS approved list or another applicable import pathway. Send the make, model and year before you buy and we can help check.
Yes. Send us the listing. We can help assess the car, the seller and the import process before you commit, then assist with inspection, history checks, secure payment and the rest of the import if you proceed.
Ready to Import From New Zealand?
Tell us the car you are looking for or send us a listing. We will talk through eligibility, likely costs and the process before you commit.