From 1 April 2022, the Clean Car Discount scheme will mean rebates and fees are applied to imported new and used vehicles based on their CO2 emissions. It does not affect vehicles already on the road in NZ. Having said that, because new and used vehicles new to NZ will be dearer, the price of all cars will go up.
Buyers purchasing high CO2 emission vehicles will pay a higher price in recognition of the increased environmental costs they are imposing. The higher the CO2 rating the greater the fee. Buyers choosing zero or low-emission vehicles will receive a rebate, the lower the emissions the greater the rebate.
Surprisingly, there is no relief for people who need to buy vehicles for which there is no viable electric alternative.