Just got the reply below from VTNZ on this. Doesn't sound as ruthless as the local inspector made out but still seems a bit ridiculous to me - a WoF is a WoF. If a vehicle can pass a normal WoF, it should be safe to drive on the road regardless of whether the registration has been paid or not as not having a current rego has (obviously) zero effect on the safety of the car. More to the point; what makes VTNZ and the AA any more qualified than anyone else to carry out vehicle inspections? Anyway...here's what they said.
- What is involved with the ‘safety check’? ie. Is this a thorough warrant of fitness check, or will the inspector be taking the interior/exterior panels off? If the latter is true, where can I obtain a copy of the inspection manual that is used?
Yes there is some removal of interior trims required and exterior trims such as the inner guard liners. See link to the Entry Certification VIRM: http://vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/entry-certification/i-and-c/vehicle-structure/inspection-specifications
You will also need to refer to the brake section as brakes are also disassembled. http://vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/entry-certification/i-and-c/brakes/inspection-specifications
- When the car was registered, it had an LVVC for adjustable suspension which is still in the vehicle (as is the LVVC plate); does this still stand? If not, is it acceptable to just install factory suspension or is there more to it than that?
The LVVTA Certification plate is still valid provided the modifications detailed on the plate match the vehicle. If you were to return the vehicle back to standard you would have to have the vehicle assessed by a LVV certifier for the plate to be removed or amended.
- Can I get a pre-‘safety check’ done so that I can take my time to fix any issues prior to it going through the actual test? If so how much does this cost?
We can do a pre-compliance check, however there is a risk that some issues are not identified as unless we remove trims etc. it cannot be completely inspected