The Ultimate Guide to Buying Personalised Number Plates in NZ

Before you start dreaming up your perfect plate, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

You can buy brand new plates from KiwiPlates, the official provider in New Zealand. This is a great option if you have a specific combination in mind and want to be the first to own it. Or, you can browse the treasure trove of second-hand plates on Trade Me. You might find a hidden gem or a plate that's perfect for your car's model or your sense of humour.

This is a big one. When you buy a personalised plate, you're not just buying the physical plate; you're buying the right to display that combination of letters and numbers. This is called the "entitlement." When you buy a second-hand plate, you need to make sure the seller completes a "Transfer of Entitlement" form. This is a legal document that transfers the entitlement to you. Without it, the plate isn't legally yours, even if you have the physical plate.

While you can get creative, there are a few rules. Plates can have up to six characters (five for motorbikes and trailers) and can be a mix of letters and numbers. However, you can't have a plate that's offensive, confusing, or too similar to an existing plate. You can view the rules in the Number Plates section of the NZTA website.

It's not just about the letters and numbers - the look of the plate itself matters too.

• Backgrounds and Colours: When buying new, you often have a choice of styles. The classic black background with white or silver characters is ever-popular, but you can also find plates with a yellow background, a New Zealand-branded design (like a silver fern), or even plates co-branded with car manufacturers like Ford or Holden.

• Plate vs. Plate Frame: It's important to know the difference. The number plate is the official, legal aluminium plate that displays your unique combination. A plate frame (or surround) is a separate accessory that you can buy to mount around the edge of your number plate for added style. The frame is purely decorative, while the plate is the legal requirement.

While many see personalised plates as a fun accessory, some can be a serious investment. The right combination can become incredibly sought-after, fetching prices that rival luxury cars. Short plates with one or two characters, iconic words, or highly desirable combinations can be worth a fortune. For example, a rare plate was recently listed on Trade Me for a staggering $200,000. So, when you're browsing, remember that you might not just be buying a piece of metal, but a potentially valuable and appreciating asset.

You may also come across "show plates." These are novelty plates made for display purposes - perfect for car shows, a garage wall, or photoshoots. Because they are not intended for road use, they don't have to follow NZTA rules, allowing for more creative fonts, graphics, and sizes. Just remember, as the name suggests, they are for show only and are not legal to use on your vehicle on public roads.

Ready to take the plunge? Here's how to get your hands on a personalised plate:

Browse KiwiPlates for a new creation or check out the awesome plates selection on Trade Me Motors for a second-hand bargain.

If you're buying new, simply follow the steps on the KiwiPlates website. If you're buying second-hand, make sure you and the seller agree on a price and that the "Transfer of Entitlement" form is part of the deal.

The seller needs to complete the "Transfer of Entitlement" form and send it to LicenSys, the plate manufacturer. It's a good idea to get a copy of the completed form for your records.

Once the entitlement is in your name, you can get the plates made (if they're new) or put the existing plates on your car. You'll need to go to an NZTA agent (like AA or VTNZ) to get the plates officially assigned to your vehicle.

Need some inspiration? Here are some of the fun and creative plates we've spotted on Trade Me Motors recently:

• V8PWR1: No explanation needed!
• RELQIK: Perfect for a speed demon
• MYPAPA: For the dad who's a legend
• HOGMN: One for the Harley Davidson fans
• AVI8TR: For the pilot or aviation enthusiast
• LILTWK: A bit of fun for a modified ride
• G02H3L: A cheeky plate with a bit of attitude