This is an HTML version of an attachment to the Official Information request 'Low powered electric commuter vehicles'.








   
 
 
11 September 2019 
 
 
Warren Hurst 
[FYI request #11097 email] 
     REF: NZT-4283 
 
Dear Warren 
 
Thank you for your email of 30 August 2019 regarding the use of golf carts on New Zealand roads. 
 
Golf carts are unable to be registered as they are not designed for road use and therefore do not meet 
the required safety standards, most crucially being those that relate to lighting and brakes. While it is 
possible to retrofit lighting in order to meet the required standards, this is not possible for the brakes 
on golf carts.  
 
If a 3-wheeled golf cart has a maximum speed that does not exceed 50 kilometres per hour and an 
engine cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cc, or a power source other than a piston engine, it may be 
registered as a LB class vehicle, provided the standards are met.  
 
Prior to committing to the purchase, the Transport Agency does recommend you speak with both the 
manufacturer and the certification body that tested and confirmed compliance, to ensure that the 
vehicle meets the required brake standard. 
 
You can find the full list of standards a LB class vehicle is required to meet at the following link: 
https://www.nzta.govt.nz/vehicles/vehicle-types/motorcycles-and-mopeds/#Classes-LA-and-LB. 
 
If you would like to discuss this matter further, you are welcome to contact Tania Barnett, Customer 
Advisor – Ministerials by email at [email address] or by phone on 0800 108 809.  
 
Yours sincerely  
 
Michelle Charlton 
Senior Manager Customer Services