When it comes to navigating the diverse landscapes of New Zealand, the Mazda Demio has emerged as a popular choice for drivers, especially among backpackers looking to buy their own car for travel purposes. With its compact size, fuel efficiency, and reliable performance, the Mazda Demio is well-suited for exploring the scenic roads and hidden gems of this beautiful country.
Before diving into the details, it’s important to note that buying a car in New Zealand comes with its own set of pros and cons. While owning a car offers the flexibility to customize your travel experience and potentially save money compared to renting, it also involves additional responsibilities and risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to make informed decisions throughout the process.
When searching for a Mazda Demio for sale in New Zealand, it’s important to consider factors such as specifications, reviews, price, features, fuel economy, and dimensions. These details will help you determine if the Mazda Demio meets your specific needs and preferences. Additionally, setting a budget, being open to adjustments, and considering the condition of the car will further aid in finding the right fit.
The next step is finding the best places to search for cars. Online platforms such as Facebook groups, trademe, and backpackerboard are popular choices for finding Mazda Demio listings. However, it’s crucial to carefully review the details of each listing and schedule meetings with multiple sellers to ensure you don’t miss out on a good deal.
Before finalizing your purchase, it’s highly recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic. This will help assess the overall condition of the vehicle and identify any potential issues that may require costly repairs in the future. Additionally, obtaining a Vehicle Information Report (VIR) will provide valuable information about the car’s history and ownership.
Once you’ve purchased your Mazda Demio, there are a few important steps to follow. Firstly, completing the change of ownership process at an NZ Post office is essential. This ensures that the car is legally registered under your name. It’s also advisable to get insurance for your car to protect against theft and damages.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider factors such as specifications, reviews, price, features, fuel economy, and dimensions when looking for a Mazda Demio for sale in New Zealand.
- Set a budget and be open to adjustments while exploring the listings.
- Have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic to assess the condition of the vehicle.
- Obtain a Vehicle Information Report (VIR) for valuable insights into the car’s history and ownership.
- Complete the change of ownership process at an NZ Post office and ensure you have insurance coverage.
The Mazda Demio – A Popular Choice for New Zealand Thieves
Unfortunately, the Mazda Demio has earned the infamous reputation of being the most stolen car in New Zealand. According to insurance claims data from AMI, the Demio accounted for a staggering 10% of all vehicle theft claims received between 2019 and 2021, despite constituting only 1.5% of the country’s fleet. This alarming statistic emphasizes the need for vehicle owners to take robust security precautions and ensure that their insurance details are up-to-date.
On a positive note, the Mazda Demio also boasts a remarkable stolen car recovery rate. Approximately 94% of stolen Demio cars are successfully recovered, surpassing the average recovery rate of 70%. This signifies the effectiveness of New Zealand’s law enforcement efforts and provides hope for Demio owners if their vehicle falls victim to theft.
In addition to the Mazda Demio, other popular car models targeted by thieves in New Zealand include the Mazda Atenza (Mazda 6), Nissan Tiida, Subaru Legacy, and Mazda Familia. These vehicles, along with the Demio, stand out as attractive targets due to their popularity and relatively high market demand.
The region with the highest number of vehicle theft claims in New Zealand is Auckland, followed closely by Canterbury. Vehicle owners residing in these areas should exercise heightened vigilance and adopt preventative security measures to mitigate the risk of car theft. This includes parking their cars in secure locations, such as locked garages or well-lit areas, and utilizing additional security features like steering wheel locks or car alarms.
The Top Imported Cars in New Zealand
Car importing in New Zealand has become increasingly popular, and there are certain cars that stand out as the top choices. These imported cars offer unique features and cater to the diverse preferences and needs of Kiwi drivers.
1. Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a utility powerhouse and is renowned for its rugged durability and reliability. It is highly versatile and suitable for both urban streets and off-road adventures.
2. Mazda Demio
The Mazda Demio, also known as the Mazda2 in some markets, is a compact and fuel-efficient car that is popular among city dwellers. Its small size makes it easy to navigate through tight spaces, and its economical engines align with New Zealand’s focus on sustainability.
3. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is an adventure-ready SUV that appeals to those who love exploring New Zealand’s varied terrain. With its all-wheel-drive system and spacious interior, it offers comfort and versatility for both urban and off-road driving.
4. Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf represents the electric revolution and is favored by those who seek sustainable transportation. Its zero-emission electric powertrain and impressive range make it a practical option for city commuting.
5. BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a luxury vehicle that combines style and performance. It offers a sophisticated design, advanced technology, and powerful engines, appealing to drivers who value both comfort and driving dynamics.
These top imported cars provide New Zealand drivers with a wide range of options, from practicality and sustainability to luxury and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mazda Demio is a popular choice among drivers in New Zealand, especially backpackers looking to buy their own cars for travel purposes. The flexibility and freedom of buying a car in New Zealand make it an attractive option, but it also comes with responsibilities. It’s important to obtain the necessary certifications, such as the Warrant of Fitness and registration, and to stay up-to-date with renewals.
However, it’s essential to be aware of car theft risks, especially with the Mazda Demio being a popular target. Taking security precautions, such as parking in secure locations and ensuring insurance details are current, can help minimize the risk. Car importing has also become popular in New Zealand, and the Toyota Hilux, Mazda Demio, Subaru Forester, Nissan Leaf, and BMW X5 are among the top choices. Each of these imported cars offers unique features and benefits to meet the diverse preferences and needs of Kiwi drivers.
Whether buying a Mazda Demio or importing a car to New Zealand, it’s crucial to consider factors such as budget, specific requirements, and local regulations. This ensures a smooth and successful process, allowing drivers to enjoy the convenience and pleasure of owning a car in New Zealand.
FAQ
What should I consider when buying a backpacker car in New Zealand?
When buying a backpacker car, it’s important to consider factors such as whether it is self-contained or non-self-contained, the build year, odometer reading, number of seats, sleeping options, and the condition of the WoF and rego. It’s recommended to set a budget and be open to adjusting it as needed.
Where can I search for cars in New Zealand?
The best places to search for cars are online platforms such as Facebook groups, Trademe, and Backpackerboard. It’s important to carefully review the details of each listing and schedule meetings with multiple sellers to avoid missing out on a good deal.
Should I have a pre-purchase inspection done before buying a car?
Yes, it’s crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic to assess the condition of the vehicle and avoid unexpected repairs. Additionally, obtaining a Vehicle Information Report (VIR) can provide valuable information about the car’s history and ownership.
What is the change of ownership process for a car in New Zealand?
Once the car is purchased, the change of ownership process should be completed at an NZ Post office. It’s also recommended to get insurance for the car to protect against theft and damages.
What are the ongoing responsibilities after buying a car in New Zealand?
Ongoing responsibilities include renewing the car’s registration (rego), obtaining a Warrant of Fitness (WoF), and scheduling regular service checks.
Is the Mazda Demio a popular choice for car thieves in New Zealand?
Yes, unfortunately, the Mazda Demio has earned the reputation of being the most stolen car in New Zealand.
What are the top choices for imported cars in New Zealand?
The top choices for imported cars in New Zealand include the Toyota Hilux, Mazda Demio, Subaru Forester, Nissan Leaf, and BMW X5.
