Should You Buy a Motorhome from a Dealer, Private Seller, or Reseller

Should you buy from a registered motor vehicle trader?

Going to a registered motor vehicle trader is often the most secure and straightforward path to buying a motorhome. A trader is a professional business that buys and sells vehicles, operating from a physical yard with a team of staff. They’re a legally accountable entity, providing a level of security that other channels cannot match. While the initial price might be higher than a private sale, you're paying for something very valuable: peace of mind.

The power of legal protection

Legal protection is the single biggest advantage of buying from a registered trader. In New Zealand, anyone in the business of buying and selling vehicles must be registered. You can check if a company is registered on the official Motor Vehicle Traders Register. All registered traders have legal responsibilities designed to protect you, the consumer.

Your protection comes from two important pieces of legislation:

• The Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA): This is your key safeguard. The CGA ensures that the motorhome you buy is of "acceptable quality". A complex vehicle like a motorhome must be safe, durable, and free from significant defects. It must be fit for its purpose and match the description you were given. The CGA also covers "consequential loss". For example, imagine you buy a motorhome and the faulty fridge ruins $200 worth of food. Under the CGA, the trader could be liable for the fridge repair and the cost of your spoiled groceries. If a fault is minor, the trader must repair it within a reasonable time. If the fault is "substantial"—meaning the vehicle is unsafe, unfit for purpose, or significantly different from its description—you have the right to reject the vehicle and choose a refund, replacement, or repair. This safety net is significant and does not apply in a private sale.
  
  

• The Fair Trading Act (FTA): This act protects you from being misled or treated unfairly. It makes it illegal for a trader to make false claims about a vehicle. For example, if a motorhome is advertised as a 2018 model but you later discover it was first registered in 2016, this is a breach of the FTA.

A critical protection offered by traders is the mandatory Consumer Information Notice (CIN). A registered trader must display a CIN card on every used vehicle they sell. This is a legal document that clearly states key information, including the total cash price (including GST and registration), the exact make, model and year of first registration, the VIN/chassis number, if there is any money owing on the vehicle, and whether it is a damaged import. Each piece of this information is vital. For example, knowing the year of first registration tells you the actual age of the vehicle's habitation components, not just when the base vehicle was built. The CIN means a trader cannot fudge important details like a private seller, making it an important protection for buyers.

The MTA advantage: an extra layer of assurance

Beyond the legal minimum, some traders go a step further to guarantee their quality and service. Look for traders who are Motor Trade Association (MTA) members. The MTA is an independent industry body and membership is voluntary. To become a member, a trader must meet strict criteria and is subject to regular audits to ensure they adhere to a comprehensive Code of Ethics.

The MTA provides a considerably greater level of consumer protection. If you have an issue with an MTA member that you can't resolve directly, you have access to their free and independent mediation and dispute resolution service. This process is designed to be straightforward and fair, providing a clear path to getting issues sorted without the stress and expense of legal action. Wilderness is a proud MTA member, which is part of our commitment to providing our customers the highest level of assurance.

Understanding warranties

A reputable trader will stand by the quality of their vehicles with a comprehensive warranty, separate from your rights under the CGA. A good dealer warranty should cover both the 'vehicle' and the 'house' parts of the motorhome. Always read the warranty document carefully to understand what is covered. This written promise clearly indicates a trader's confidence in their product.

The value of professional after-sales support

The real sign of a good dealer isn't just that they can service a vehicle—many workshops can do that. The most important part of after-sales support is their ability to source Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts directly from the manufacturer and carry a supply of them. Imagine you are in a remote part of the South Island and a specific European water pump fails. A generic workshop might not even be able to identify it, let alone order it. A specialist dealer can identify it from a photo, check their stock and courier it to you. This expertise and direct supply line provides long-term peace of mind that generic repair shops cannot offer.

More pros of buying from a trader

• Compare and contrast with ease: A trader's yard allows you to see a range of makes and models side-by-side. This is a clear advantage over private sales, where you only look at one vehicle at a time. You can physically compare the efficient design of a German motorhome with the features of a New Zealand-built one to see what truly works for you.
  
  

• Detailed specifications and transparency: A dealer should provide a detailed specification sheet or brochure. They should be able to tell you everything about the motorhome, from the specific safety features in the base vehicle (like ABS and traction control) to the payload capacity, insulation type, and the capacity of the batteries in amp-hours and water tanks in litres.
  
  

• Convenience and flexibility: A dealer is a business with regular opening hours. You can usually show up five or six days a week to browse vehicles without needing to make a specific appointment, which is much more convenient than coordinating viewing times with a private seller.
  
  

• Financing options and trade-ins: Traders typically have established relationships with finance companies, making it much easier to secure a loan. If you have a vehicle to trade in, a trader can also simplify this process.
  
  

• Ensured compliance and paperwork: A trader will ensure the motorhome is sold with all the correct and current certifications and they handle all the change of ownership paperwork.

The cons of buying from a trader

• Generally higher purchase price: The peace of mind that comes with a trader purchase has a cost. Prices are higher than private sales to cover business overheads, the cost of mechanically inspecting and professionally preparing the vehicle, the comprehensive warranty provided, and adherence to MTA standards.
  
  

• Negotiation style: While a dealer’s prices are more structured, they do need to move stock, so there can be room to negotiate. This can sometimes be more straightforward than negotiating with a private seller who may have an emotional attachment to their vehicle.

What does it mean to buy a motorhome privately?

Buying a motorhome privately means purchasing it directly from its previous owner. This can be a great option for those who are confident in their ability to assess a vehicle and handle the process themselves. The main draw is the potential for a lower price, but this comes with significantly higher risk.

The pros of a private sale

• Potentially lower purchase price: Without the overheads of a dealership, a private seller can often offer their motorhome at a lower price.
  
  

• Direct owner history: You can speak directly to the person who has owned and used the motorhome, allowing you to ask detailed questions about its history.
  
  

• Negotiation: There is often more room for negotiation in a private sale. However, it’s important to be aware that some private sellers who have invested heavily in personal modifications may have unrealistic expectations about price as they want to get their money back.

The cons of a private sale

• No consumer protection: This is the most significant downside. When you buy privately the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) and Fair Trading Act do not apply. The sale is on a "buyer beware" basis. If you drive away and the engine fails a week later you have no legal recourse.
  
  

• Condition uncertainty: Unless you are a trained mechanic it can be challenging to assess the true condition of a used motorhome.
  
  

• The pre-purchase inspection imperative: Getting a full independent pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended. Do not use a mechanic recommended by the seller. A proper inspection should cover:
  
  

  • Base vehicle: Engine compression test, transmission check, brake wear, suspension and a thorough rust check of the chassis.

  • Habitation systems: A gas system leak test, a full electrical check (on 12v, 240v and gas), a plumbing check of all pumps, taps and the toilet and a function test of all appliances.

  • Habitation body: A detailed water ingress inspection using a moisture meter is non-negotiable. The inspector should check all seals around windows, roof vents, and lockers, and inspect the floor for delamination.
    
    

• Paperwork pitfalls: You are responsible for all due diligence. This includes:
  
  

  • Checking for money owing: Use the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) to ensure there's no outstanding finance on the motorhome.

  • Change of ownership: You and the seller must complete and submit the change of ownership forms correctly.
    
    

• No support system: Once the transaction is complete, you are on your own.

Are resellers and brokers a safe way to buy a motorhome?

A reseller or broker acts as a middleman, selling a motorhome on behalf of a private owner. This is not a common business model in New Zealand; there are very few resellers in the country. They exist primarily to help people who don't have the time, resources, or interest in selling their motorhome themselves and are happy to pay a commission for the service. A potential conflict of interest can exist as the reseller is contracted by and paid by the seller; their primary duty is to the seller not the buyer.

The most critical question you must ask is: "Are you a registered motor vehicle trader and will your company be listed as the seller on the transfer documents?"

If they are a registered trader you should be covered by the CGA. If the sale is technically still between you and the private owner you likely have no more protection than in a fully private sale. Always get this clarified in writing.

Before buying a motorhome, what checks should I perform?

Regardless of where you choose to buy your motorhome there are several essential checks you must perform.

The full budget

The purchase price is only the beginning. Factor in ongoing running costs like:

• Insurance: Comprehensive motorhome insurance can range from $800 to $2000+ per year.
  
  

• Registration: A yearly cost.
  
  

• Road user charges (RUCs): For diesel vehicles, you must pre-pay for the kilometres you travel.
  
  

• Servicing: Budget for annual engine and habitation servicing.
  
  

• Repairs & maintenance: Set aside a contingency fund.
  
  

• Depreciation: A motorhome is a depreciating asset. Factor this into your long-term financial planning.

Read more about the costs of owning a motorhome.

Certification deep dive

• Self-Containment (CSC): Certifies your vehicle can hold fresh and wastewater for three days for the number of people on board.
  
  

• WOF/COF: A Warrant of Fitness (under 3500kg) or Certificate of Fitness (over 3500kg). A COF is more rigorous, covering more safety aspects of a heavy vehicle. Both must be renewed annually.
  
  

• Electrical & gas certificates: These must be issued by a qualified electrician or gasfitter and are typically valid for four years. They certify the safety and compliance of these crucial systems.

Inspecting for water tightness

Water damage is a major risk for any motorhome as it can cause expensive structural damage to the wooden frame. New vehicles come with a watertightness warranty, but on a used vehicle, you must check for this yourself. Carefully inspect all ceiling and wall panels, especially in corners and inside cupboards, for any staining, soft spots or a musty smell. Press firmly on the walls around windows and vents to check for any softness, which can indicate a leak.

Learn more about water tightness.

The thorough test drive

Take it for a long and comprehensive test drive. Drive over some bumpy roads to listen for rattles and squeaks. Try a three-point turn to check the turning circle and visibility. Drive at highway speed to check for vibrations or wandering. While driving, have your partner test every single feature inside from the taps and toilet to the lights, fridge and heater.

Download our free due diligence checklist by filling out the form on this page — it’ll help you tick off every important pre-purchase detail with confidence.