Car Loans New Zealand
Financing a vehicle in New Zealand — whether new, used, or electric — involves choosing between bank loans, dealer finance, and specialist vehicle lenders. This section covers everything you need to compare rates, understand the process, and find the best deal.
Car loan quick facts (NZ 2026)
• Typical rate range: 9–24% p.a. secured
• Minimum term: 6 months
• Maximum term: 7 years
• Security: Usually the vehicle being purchased
• PPSR registration: Required for all secured vehicle loans
• Always check PPSR before buying a used car — it's free at ppsr.govt.nz
• Typical rate range: 9–24% p.a. secured
• Minimum term: 6 months
• Maximum term: 7 years
• Security: Usually the vehicle being purchased
• PPSR registration: Required for all secured vehicle loans
• Always check PPSR before buying a used car — it's free at ppsr.govt.nz
Car Loan Guides in This Section
Finding the Best Loan
- Best Car Loans NZ 2026 — top-rated lenders and what makes a car loan competitive
- Car Loan Rates NZ 2026 — current rate ranges from all major lenders
Types of Vehicle Finance
- Dealer Finance vs Bank Loan NZ — which route saves more money
- Used Car Loans NZ — financing a second-hand vehicle
- EV Loans NZ — green vehicle finance and incentives
Getting Approved
- How to Get a Car Loan in NZ — step-by-step application guide
Lender Reviews
- MTF Finance Review NZ — NZ’s largest specialist auto lender
Key Lenders for Car Finance in NZ
| Lender | Type | Rate range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTF Finance | Specialist | ~10–24% p.a. | Largest dedicated auto lender, dealer network |
| Kiwibank | Bank | ~9.95–14.95% p.a. | Competitive bank rate; green loan for EVs |
| ANZ | Bank | ~9.95–15.95% p.a. | Large dealer partner network |
| ASB | Bank | ~9.95–15.95% p.a. | Online application |
| Finance Now | Non-bank | ~9.95–22% p.a. | Flexible, used cars including older vehicles |
| Avanti Finance | Non-bank | ~13–26% p.a. | More accessible for adverse credit |
Bank vs Specialist: Which Is Cheaper?
For borrowers with good credit, bank car loans are generally cheaper than specialist lenders. However:
- MTF Finance often works alongside dealers and can offer competitive rates for well-qualified buyers
- Non-bank lenders provide options for older vehicles (10+ years) or non-standard buyers that banks may decline
- Dealer finance can offer 0% promotional periods but typically higher standard rates
Always compare total cost including fees, not just the advertised rate.
The Loans Section
This section is part of the Loans hub, which also covers personal loans, student loans, and credit cards.
For general borrowing guidance, see Personal Loans NZ.