Trailer WoF changes from 1 November 2026: how often your trailer needs one
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Short answer: From 1 November 2026, light trailers follow the same WoF schedule as cars. If your trailer was first registered on or after 1 November 2019 and is under 14 years old, your next WoF lasts two years. Trailers first registered between 1 November 2013 and 31 October 2019 stay on a yearly WoF until 1 November 2027, then move to two-yearly. Trailers 14 years and older stay yearly.
What changed?
NZTA changed how often light vehicles need a warrant of fitness, and light trailers (3,500kg or less) are included. That covers everyday box trailers, boat trailers and caravans. The change is being phased in over two years, based on when the trailer was first registered.
Which trailers move to a two-yearly WoF?
| First registered | WoF from 1 Nov 2026 |
|---|---|
| On or after 1 November 2019, and under 14 years old | Every two years, from your first inspection on or after 1 November 2026 |
| 1 November 2013 to 31 October 2019 | Yearly until 1 November 2027, then every two years while under 14 |
| 14 years or older | Yearly (no change) |
| Before 1 January 2000 | Yearly (previously six-monthly) |
Does my current WoF get extended?
No. The date on your current WoF label still stands. The new frequency starts at your next inspection on or after 1 November 2026.
How do I check my trailer's first registration date?
It's the date the trailer was first registered anywhere, which is on your rego record. If you're not sure, bring your rego details when you book and we'll check it.
Why you should still check your trailer between WoFs
A WoF only shows your trailer was safe on the day it was checked. With two years between inspections, it's on you to keep it road-ready. Every few months, check:
- tyres for tread, cracks and pressure
- lights and reflectors all working
- coupling, safety chain and drawbar for wear or rust
- wheel bearings for noise or play (spin the wheels)
- brakes, if your trailer has them
Boat trailers dunked in salt water need more care, not less. Our post on what a trailer service involves covers what we look at.
Book your trailer WoF
Book your trailer WoF with us and we'll get it sorted. If anything needs fixing, we can repair it in our Glenfield workshop, where we've been building and repairing trailers on the North Shore since 1991. Book a trailer WoF or call 09 444 5571. Need new trailer lights? We stock them.
FAQ
Do trailers get a two-year WoF in NZ now?
Some do. From 1 November 2026, light trailers first registered on or after 1 November 2019 and under 14 years old get a two-year WoF at their next inspection.
My trailer was registered in 2017. When does it go two-yearly?
It stays on a yearly WoF until 1 November 2027. After that, it moves to every two years while it's under 14 years old.
Is my old trailer affected?
Trailers 14 years and older stay on a yearly WoF. Trailers first registered before 2000 move from six-monthly to yearly.
Do I still need to maintain my trailer between WoFs?
Yes. You're responsible for keeping it safe at all times, so check tyres, lights, coupling and bearings regularly.
Source: NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, warrant of fitness.