Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
Over the last 15 years or so, High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) have become more visible on New Zealand roads. They are heavier, longer, and – surprisingly for some – more efficient, safer, and greener.
HPMV’s increased freight capacity reduces the number of required vehicle trips, resulting in emission reductions, reduced congestion, and reduced accident risk ( Report to the Ministry of Transport, 2015).
HPMVs also pay significantly higher rates of Road User Charges than other heavy vehicles, based on their impact on the pavement. This ensures they contribute proportionally to road maintenance and improvement.
HPMVs operate under permits issued by NZTA and local councils, on roads and bridges that can accommodate the additional mass and length of the larger vehicles. NZTA processed 7,000 heavy vehicle permits in 2023.
Unfortunately for road freight companies and their customers, applying for a HPMV permit can be a complicated process. This includes navigating NZTA’s permitting portal, carefully measuring the vehicle, entering the data correctly, and then waiting for the permit to be granted.
“Many operators find it difficult to know where to start with the HPMV process and no one really knows who to call to help.” says Jim.
“We wanted to show how to start the process, and what operators will need to have in front of them to complete the task. The ability to pause the video and work through the stages should be helpful for people who only do this process from time to time.”
“These guides show operators how to register their business on the NZTA permitting portal, measure a vehicle when applying for a permit, and upload a permit application to NZTA.”
Reforms boosting freight productivity
In addition to providing educational resources, Transporting New Zealand has consistently advocated for the Government to simplify permitting processes and get more efficient trucks on the road.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop recently announced a comprehensive reform of New Zealand’s land transport rules, that provide an excellent opportunity to facilitate such improvements.
Transporting New Zealand has been providing feedback to regulators on how to unlock greater productivity, and continues to work with government officials.
