Is a Dash Cam Legal in NZ? What to Know Before You Fit One
Yes, dash cams are widely used in New Zealand and there is no general ban on fitting one. The points that need care are where you mount it so it does not block your view of the road, whether you record audio, and what you do with the footage afterwards, because other people appear in it. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Where to mount it
Keep the camera out of your main view of the road. Behind the rear-view mirror, or low on the glass, is the usual spot. A camera in your line of sight could be a problem at a warrant of fitness inspection or if it blocks your view while driving. If you are unsure, check the guidance from NZTA or ask your inspector.
Audio recording
Audio is where most of the risk sits. Recording people's conversations without them knowing can raise privacy problems, so many drivers turn audio recording off. If your dash cam records sound and you carry passengers, tell them.
Sharing footage
Number plates and people in the background can be personal information. Think before you post footage online, and consider blurring plates and faces if you do. If the footage shows dangerous driving or a crash, giving it to the police is usually better than posting it. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner has guidance on dash cams and privacy.
Work vehicles
If you drive a work vehicle, the employer has its own obligations about how footage is collected and used. Check your workplace policy before fitting one.
A tidy, hard-wired install
A hard-wired dash cam keeps the cable out of sight along the headlining and pillar, frees your 12V socket and can use parking mode with a low-voltage cut-off. We fit them at your home or work, and you can read about it on our dash cam installation page. To choose a camera first, see our dash cam buying guide for NZ. Adding a reversing camera at the same time? See reverse camera installation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use dash cam footage as evidence?
Footage is often useful when you report a crash or a dangerous driver. Keep the original file, note the date and time, and give it to the police or your insurer when asked.
Do I need to tell passengers I am recording?
If your dash cam records audio, telling passengers is the fair and safer approach. Many people simply switch audio off.
Does a dash cam affect my warrant of fitness?
It can if it blocks your view of the road. Mount it behind the mirror or low on the glass, and check with your inspector if you are unsure.
Can I post my dash cam footage on social media?
You can, but think about the people and number plates in it. Blur them if you do, and consider giving serious incidents to the police instead.