| Submissions for this consultation have now closed |
We’ve consulted on amendments to the following Rules for heavy vehicles:
- Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016 (VDAM)
- Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicles 2004 (HV Rule)
Consultation closed on 17 December 2025.
What we sought feedback on
The Government wants to ensure the land transport regulatory system contributes positively to New Zealand’s economic growth, delivering a safer, more productive transport system that efficiently targets risk.
Proposed Rule changes aim to reduce administrative requirements for heavy vehicles and use regulatory and enforcement resources more efficiently.
We sought feedback on these proposed changes:
- Removing 44T-50MAX permits: the VDAM Rule requires vehicles weighing between 44 and 50 tonnes (50MAX vehicles) to have permits to operate. We are proposing to remove the requirement for 50MAX vehicles to have a permit, where these vehicles meet specific design standards and are operated on pre-approved routes.
- Removing H plates: H plates are yellow signs or stickers displayed on High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) to show they’re operating under a permit in the VDAM Rule. We’re proposing to remove the requirement to display H plates. Operators would still need to hold valid permits or documentation, and enforcement agencies would continue to rely on these records.
- Incorporating the Bolster Attachment Code by reference: The Bolster Attachment Code (the Code) sets out detailed requirements for heavy vehicles fitted with bolsters carrying logs. The Code must currently be written into the HV Rule, meaning any new version requires a formal HV Rule change for the Code to have legal effect. We’re proposing to incorporate the Code by reference. This would allow the Code to be updated quickly and easily, without needing to amend the Rule each time.
- Minor amendment to definitions in the HV Rule: The term ‘low volume vehicle’ is defined in the HV Rule, but isn’t used anywhere else in the HV Rule, and doesn’t serve a regulatory purpose. We’re proposing to amend the HV Rule to remove this unused definition.
Supporting documents during consultation
What’s next
All feedback is being considered before the Minister of Transport makes a decision. Any Land Transport Rule amendments would likely be signed in mid-2026.If a Rule changes, we will:
- publish a notice in the government gazette (required by law)
- notify industry contacts, service providers and people who provided feedback
- update our website, including providing a summary of submissions and amended rules.
If a Rule doesn’t change, we will:
- notify industry contacts and service providers
- update our website to provide a summary of submissions.
If you have a question about this consultation, send it to:
rules@nzta.govt.nz
This work is part of the Government’s Land Transport Rules Reform Programme:
Land Transport Rules Reform Programme(external link)
