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The skilled mechanics at Coastal Autos take pride in ensuring your vehicle is safe on the road and our service advisers efficiently manage your job from booking to drop off and pick up. When you book your vehicle for a Warrant of Fitness inspection (WoF), we'll make sure you're informed of the outcome straight away. When you pick up your vehicle, you'll get an easy-to-understand summary of any repairs that are required to pass the WoF along with an estimate of costs.
Price list, WoF Vehicle $79; WoF Trailer $58; WoF Caravan $68

WoF inspections in Papamoa

A Warrant of Fitness (WoF) is your vehicle’s legally required safety stamp - it checks the key systems that keep you, your passengers, and other road users safe. It’s not a full health check, though, so for engine and mechanical reliability, consider a pre‑purchase or full service inspection, especially if you're buying a used car. Here's what you need to know:​

A Warrant of Fitness (WoF) is your vehicle’s legally required safety stamp - it checks the key systems that keep you, your passengers, and other road users safe. It’s not a full health check, though, so for engine and mechanical reliability, consider a pre‑purchase or full service inspection, especially if you're buying a used car. Here's what you need to know:

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What’s inspected?

Inspections focus on critical safety features only. They include:

  • Tyres – tread depth and overall condition

  • Brakes – performance and braking efficiency

  • Steering & suspension – alignment, wear, and mechanical function

  • Lights – all lights must be operational

  • Glazing & wipers – windscreen condition and washer/wiper operation

  • Seat belts & airbags – integrity and correct function

  • Doors – must open and close safely

  • Speedometer – must work accurately

  • Exhaust & fuel system – no leaks and within noise/ emission limits

  • Structural integrity – no unsafe rust etc. 

  • Not inspected: engine performance, fluid levels, gearbox, clutch, differential, paint, or non-structural elements .

Why it matters

  • WoF certifies current roadworthiness, but doesn’t guarantee long-term vehicle reliability 

  • Driving without a valid WoF sticker can result in a fine of NZ $200, and authorities can still deem a vehicle unroadworthy at any time 

 

What if it fails?

  • Your vehicle must be fixed and repaired within 28 days. It may only be driven to the repair shop or re-test facility, and only if it’s safe to do so

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NZTA (New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi) is introducing new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) rules starting 1 November 2026 to adjust inspection frequencies, add new safety checks, and increase fines for expired warrants. [1, 2, 3]

 

New WoF Inspection Frequencies

  • New Light Vehicles: The second WoF moves out from 3 years to 4 years from the date of first registration (effective 1 November 2026).

  • Vehicles Aged 4–14 Years (Registered on or after 1 November 2019): Move to a 2-year WoF cycle starting 1 November 2026.

  • Vehicles Aged 4–14 Years (Registered between 1 November 2013 and 31 October 2019): Move to a 2-year WoF cycle starting 1 November 2027.

  • Older Vehicles (Over 26 years / pre-2000): Shift from 6-monthly WoFs to annual (12-month) WoFs starting 1 November 2026.

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