Selling a car in New Zealand shouldn’t be stressful. Use this guide to follow a safe, legal, and simple process – from paperwork and change of ownership to picking the best-selling route. It’s written to give you clear steps and a sense of security, while comparing options (private, dealer, or cash-for-cars).
Quick summary: 5 steps to sell a car in NZ
- 1. Prepare the car (clean, photos, basic fixes, confirm WOF/rego status).
- 2. Gather documents (ownership/rego, ID, sale agreement, finance details).
- 3. Choose how to sell (private, dealer trade-in, or cash-for-cars).
- 4. Complete NZTA change of ownership (seller & buyer).
- 5. Get paid safely - release keys/papers only after funds clear.
Prepare the car
- Clean & minor tidy-ups: interior/exterior, remove personal items; quick wins like bulbs/wipers.
- WOF/rego status: be transparent; if selling as-is without WOF, state it clearly.
- Photos that sell: daytime, front/back/sides, interior, odometer, engine bay; uncluttered background.
- Price positioning: check comparable listings and pick a realistic range to reduce time-wasters.
Gather documents
- Ownership/rego details and seller photo ID.
- Sale agreement (especially for private sales). If no current WOF, note “as-is, where-is.”
- Finance details if money is owing – line up settlement before transfer.
- Service history & receipts (optional but confidence-boosting).
Choose how to sell (compare your options)
Private sale (TradeMe / Facebook Marketplace):
- Pros: Usually the highest price; you control timing and presentation.
- Cons: More effort (messages, viewings, test drives); risk of no-shows/scams; slower.
- Best for: Popular models in good condition when you have time.
Dealership trade-in:
- Pros: Fast and convenient, especially if you’re buying another car.
- Cons: Typically lower payout than private sale.
- Best for: Convenience over price.
Cash-for-cars (car removal):
- Pros: Fastest (often same-day), free pickup, no WOF/rego needed; simple paperwork; works for damaged/deregistered cars.
- Cons: Usually less than a top private sale price.
- Best for: Old, unwanted, non-running, accident, or time-critical sales.
Want the fastest option? Get a no-obligation cash quote.
Complete change of ownership
- Both parties (seller and buyer) must complete the NZTA change of ownership (online or via form).
- Capture and keep confirmation (email or receipt) for your records.
- If the buyer delays their part, follow up promptly; your seller confirmation is your protection.
Get paid securely
- Prefer instant bank transfer; avoid cheques.
Release keys/documents only after funds clear. - Meet in safe, public locations; consider a bank branch for cash deposits if needed.
- Remove personal data from the car (Bluetooth, GPS, apps).
Safety & scams: simple rules that protect you
- Don’t accept overpayments or unusual requests (shipping, third-party pickups) without verified funds.
- Beware of fake payment screenshots or delayed transfers.
- Never let the car go on a test drive alone; check a valid licence; set a short route.
- Trust your instincts – if something feels off, pause the deal.
Final checklist (print or save)
- Clean car; remove personal items
- Photos taken (exterior, interior, odometer)
- Ownership/rego details + photo ID
- Sale agreement prepared (note “as-is” if applicable)
- Finance settlement plan (if any)
- NZTA change of ownership (seller & buyer)
- Payment cleared before handing over keys/papers
Fast sale in Waikato, Bay of Plenty & Taranaki
We offer same-day pickup and secure payment across Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Taranaki – ideal if your car is unwanted, damaged, or deregistered. No WOF/rego required.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No, private car sales are not taxed unless you are a registered motor vehicle trader.
Yes, but the buyer must sign a form acknowledging the car is sold “as-is, where-is.” Get an offer now from Cash for Cars team.
You must settle the finance before transferring ownership. Some buyers (dealers, cash-for-cars services) may pay it off directly.
Change of ownership form, photo ID, rego/WOF details, and a sale agreement.
Related Resources
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