Owners of light diesel vehicles, i.e. those less than 3,500 kg, that are used almost exclusively off-road, now have the option of applying for a permanent exemption from paying road user charges (RUC), reports the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
Celia Patrick, the NZTA’s group manager of access and use, says the new exemption type is one of the last sections of the RUC Act 2012 to be introduced, and replaces all existing RUC exemptions for off-road light diesel vehicles.
“The new exemption recognises industrial users, such as those in the farming, forestry and horticultural sectors, who frequently use light diesel vehicles mostly off-road,” says Ms Patrick.
“An exemption granted on these grounds remains valid for as long as the nominated person retains ownership of the vehicle and complies with the conditions of the exemption.”
The conditions of the exemption mean the vehicle must:
* Be driven almost exclusively off-road.
* Be driven on public roads only within 10km of the boundary of the property where the vehicle usually kept.
* Have the exemption sticker displayed in the windscreen at all times.
“For some people, the new exemption will reduce the time and cost of applying for off-road refunds. But people who use their light diesel vehicles on public roads for significant periods, will need to stay with the current system of buying a RUC licence, keeping appropriate records, and then applying for an off-road refund for the distance the vehicle was driven off public roads,” says Ms Patrick.
Vehicle owners can apply online for an exemption from RUC, or phone the NZTA on 0800 655 644 for an application form. Each application attracts an administration fee of $115 (including GST). The application form along with more information about RUC is available at www.nzta.govt.nz/ruc.
