Targa New Zealand — FAQs
Competition, Retro Targa, Tour, licensing, safety, pricing & international vehicle shipping.
What categories of entry are available?+
Targa New Zealand offers the Targa Competition (recognised as Targa Classic and Targa Modern) and Retro Targa — a return to the original Targa style.
- Targa Classic Competition: recognised separately, with speeds up to 200 kph.
- Targa Modern Competition: recognised separately from Classic.
- Retro Targa: aimed at older/less-powerful cars (speed limited to 160 kph) using a points system based on minimum stage times.
What is Retro Targa and how are results decided?+
Retro Targa uses minimum stage times with a points allocation system (a hybrid of time trial and rally). Cars are still timed and actual stage times are displayed; results are determined by points:
- Each stage has a minimum time (average speed varies by stage and gets tougher as the event progresses).
- Points: 1 point per second over the minimum time; no penalty for running under the minimum.
- Cap: Missing a stage or being slower than the minimum is capped at 120 points.
- Speed limit: 160 kph for Retro Targa.
- Winner: lowest accumulated points across the event.
Can my vehicle be transported for me?+
Yes. We can arrange transport within New Zealand or internationally via trusted partners. As an example, a typical all-inclusive return from an eastern Australian port to Auckland is approximately NZ$4,000 (terms and conditions apply).
What licence do I need for the Targa Competition?+
Driver and co-driver require an AASA National Tarmac Rally Licence. Apply via AASA: aasa.com.au/licences/national-tarmac-rally-licence.
If you currently hold a National Rally Licence from your country’s ASN, contact the Targa Office before applying to receive a pricing discount code.
What’s in the Road Book, and is reconnaissance allowed?+
The Road Book uses comprehensive tulip diagrams to flag cautions and route guidance. No reconnaissance is permitted. Safety Notes have been in use since 2020.
What safety equipment must the car have for Competition?+
Competition vehicles must comply with the AASA Standing Regulations for Tarmac Rallies and the AASA National Competition Rules.
What safety gear is required for the driver and co-driver?+
Drivers and co-drivers must meet AASA Safety Apparel Standards (helmet, gloves, race suit, boots). A head and neck restraint device (e.g., HANS) is mandatory for all Targa New Zealand events.
What sort of car can I use in the Targa Tour?+
Any car may be used with Targa Office approval. It must be road-registered with a current WOF. We recommend a recent service, new or near-new tyres and brake pads, and at least third-party insurance.
How fast can I go in the Targa Tour?+
- Limited Tour: up to 130 kph.
- Open Tour: limited to 160 kph.
Helmets are required in both groups. Each group has a lead vehicle and a management vehicle for approximately every 10 cars, so you can choose a pace that suits.
What’s the difference between closed-road touring and a competition stage?+
Tour participants drive the same closed-road special stages but travel in a convoy behind a driving coach in an un-timed, non-competitive format.
Do I need a co-driver for the Targa Tour?+
Yes. A co-driver is required at all times. You may share driving; both participants must hold the relevant licences.
What are the co-driver requirements?+
No formal requirements beyond good communication (ideally the same language). You’ll spend long periods together, so choose someone you’re comfortable with. The Road Book is straightforward; a sample is available on request.
What licence do I need for the Targa Tour (and Time Trial)?+
All participants (domestic and international) require an AASA General Speed Event Licence. Apply via AASA.
What safety gear must Tour cars carry?+
Tour cars must have current WOF & registration and carry:
- Reflective warning triangle
- First aid kit
- Tow rope
- 1 kg powder fire extinguisher
- RSLite mobile app (Android/iOS) — used as the GPS unit (setup instructions provided at Drivers’ Briefing)
How much does it cost to enter?+
Pricing varies by event (Targa currently runs two events per year). Early entry is cheaper. Please refer to the event pricing page for current fees.
How does using AASA change the event?+
From a participant’s perspective, no change to the style or format of Targa. Some behind-the-scenes terminology differs under AASA, but the experienced people on the ground remain.
I already have a Motorsport NZ National Rally Licence — do I still need an AASA licence?+
Yes. You still need the relevant AASA licence. The process is simple if you already hold a licence. You’re entitled to hold more than one competition licence; no authority can prevent this.
How do I obtain an Authority Card for my vehicle?+
You can obtain an Authority Card via Motorsport NZ, or through the LVVTA (Low Volume Vehicle Technical Authority), which is in the process of creating a card issued directly.
What other events are AASA involved in?+
In Australia, AASA permits a wide range of motorsport (race, rally, off-road 4WD, speedway, motocross, karting, powerboats, etc.). In New Zealand, AASA has permitted the 24 Hour Lemons event for multiple years and the Targa Tour (2019). Other permit applications include karting, street-racing, and land speed attempts.
How do I ship my car to New Zealand for Targa (Carnet vs Temporary Import Entry)?+
Targa NZ has supported international competitors with motorsport vehicle shipping for 20+ years. Our preferred specialist is Phil Gibbs (G-Force Logistics) — +6421 366 638, [email protected] — offering door-to-door service and full customs paperwork.
| Option | Best For | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| ATA/C.D.P. Carnet | Most recognised temporary import; multi-country touring |
• Often avoids extra temporary registration/WOF steps (for road-registerable vehicles). • Higher setup cost/bond at origin. • Consumables cannot be listed (oils/cleaners/fluids). List separately with values; GST/duty applies and is not refundable. • Tyres (unfitted, on rims) can be included but must be exported again (retain used tyres). • Frequently required if visiting other countries before returning home. |
| Temporary Import Entry (T.I.E.) | Single event; when Carnet fees are prohibitive |
• Needs a signed owner/shipper declaration (event, dates/timeframe, owner details, make/model/year, chassis/engine no., value). • Itemise spares (incl. tyres) with values; consumables on a separate list attract GST/duty (non-refundable). • With a NZ GST-registered guarantor using a deferred GST account, no GST is paid up-front (charged only if the vehicle fails to exit on time). • Without a guarantor, GST is paid then refunded after export (~6–8 weeks). • If routing to/from Australia, obtain an Australian Vehicle Import Permit before the car departs NZ: infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/. |
Registration & WOF: Carnet imports are typically the simplest route to use your car in NZ.. T.I.E. imports may require additional procedures. For guidance, contact the Targa Office on +649 298 8322 or [email protected].
Suggested timeline: 12+ weeks: speak to Phil (choose Carnet vs T.I.E.); ~8 weeks: finalise paperwork/insurance; 4–6 weeks: confirm collection/sailing/clearance; post-event: re-export promptly to meet timeframes and protect GST treatment.
Who is the recommended logistics agent for shipping to Targa New Zealand?+
Phil Gibbs — G-Force Logistics
- Mobile: +6421 366 638
- Email: [email protected]
Phil can advise on the best import pathway, schedule and cost for your country.
What are the rules for tyres and consumables when shipping my car?+
- Consumables (oils, cleaners, screen-wash, grease, etc.) cannot be listed on a Carnet. They must be on a separate packing list with values and will incur GST (and possibly duty), which is not refundable on export.
- Tyres (unfitted, on rims) can be Carnet-listed but must be exported again with the car—even if used—so retain them for departure.
Do I need an Australian import permit if I route via Australia?+
Yes. If your vehicle ships to or from Australia, you must obtain an Australian Vehicle Import Permit before the car departs New Zealand. Apply via: infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/.
Will I need temporary Registration or WOF to use my car on NZ roads?+
Carnet imports are typically the simplest route to use your car in NZ.. T.I.E. imports may require additional procedures. For guidance, contact the Targa Office on +649 298 8322 or [email protected].