Car insurance in New Zealand ranges from basic third-party cover to fully comprehensive policies. This section covers everything you need to make the right choice — whether you’re a first-time buyer, a young driver, or shopping for an EV.
Car Insurance Guides
- Comprehensive vs Third-Party Car Insurance NZ
- Car Insurance Excess NZ — How It Works and How to Choose
- Car Insurance for Young Drivers NZ
- Electric Vehicle Insurance NZ
Provider Reviews
- AA Insurance Car Review NZ
- AMI Car Insurance Review NZ
- Tower Car Insurance Review NZ
- Youi Car Insurance Review NZ
Key NZ Car Insurance Facts
ACC covers injury — not vehicle damage: In New Zealand, ACC covers personal injury from car accidents regardless of fault. Car insurance covers vehicle damage, third-party property, and liability — not personal injury.
Third-party insurance is not compulsory in NZ: Unlike many countries, NZ has no legal requirement for third-party motor vehicle insurance. ACC is compulsory (funded by a levy on petrol and registration), but insuring your vehicle against damage you cause to others is optional. However, driving without third-party cover is a significant financial risk.
Types of cover available:
- Comprehensive: Covers your car AND third-party damage
- Third-party, fire & theft: Covers damage you cause to others, plus your car if stolen or fire-damaged
- Third-party only: Covers damage you cause to others’ property only