Illegal trader convicted

An unregistered car seller has been fined for breaching the Motor Vehicle Sales Act (MVSA).

Sidharth Puri was convicted after the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) brought three charges against him of illegal trading.

MBIE’s investigation found that Puri sold 33 vehicles while unregistered over a three-year period from January 1, 2021, to August 31, 2023. He also continued to sell cars despite being notified that he was banned.

The 45-year-old pleaded guilty to all charges at Auckland District Court on December 8 and was ordered to pay a fine of $12,000.

In considering the sentencing, the judge factored in the risk that unregistered motor-vehicle traders pose to the public and the economic benefits Puri enjoyed by not becoming registered.

The aggravating factor was that the Aucklander was notified he was banned from registering and operating as dealer on August 14, 2023, and proceeded to sell vehicles while banned on August 31.

The registrar of motor-vehicle traders, Duncan Connor, says: “The MVSA has certain provisions to protect the public when purchasing a vehicle with greater protection offered to consumers when purchasing a car from a registered trader.

“Unregistered traders are prohibited from selling more than six vehicles in a 12-month period. In exceeding this limit, Puri broke the law. MBIE will not hesitate to investigate and prosecute those that deliberately breach the MVSA.”

Under section 95 of the act, those found breaking the law can face fines of up to $50,000 for an individual or $200,000 for a company.