VIA welcomes reforms

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has welcomed the government’s plan to overhaul land transport rules, describing the reforms as “the breakout moment the sector has been waiting for”.

Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport, announced details on June 19 of a seven-stream work programme targeting a number of areas.

VIA says one of the streams, a complete overhaul of the vehicle regulatory system, directly answers its long-standing call for a simpler, outcomes-based rulebook.

Greig Epps, chief executive, adds: “Right now we’re forced to navigate more than 20 different land transport rules, seven separate vehicle inspection requirement manuals, and about 50 technical bulletins tacked onto the entry compliance manual. 

“That’s regulatory archaeology. Every layer of paper adds cost without adding safety.”

He also notes the government’s pledge to streamline import requirements and recognise overseas standards is “exactly the reset the industry – and ordinary Kiwi motorists – need”.

“If we focus on the result we all want – safe, clean vehicles at a fair price – then align the best international standards to that goal, compliance stops being a cost sink and starts being a productivity lever.”

VIA has argued for a two-tier framework with one rule that states the desired outcomes, and a dynamic list of accepted global standards that inspectors and importers can reference in real time.

Epps, pictured, says the association will work with officials to uncover and fix duplicated rules and outdated requirements as consultation begins.

“We’re ready to bring practical fixes to the table so the reform doesn’t get bogged down in theory.

“This is a chance to cut red tape, lower costs for families, and keep the fleet moving toward safer, lower-emission vehicles.”