The process a lender undertakes to verify that a loan is genuinely affordable for the borrower before approving it. Under the CCCFA, NZ lenders are required by law to make reasonable enquiries into income, expenses, and existing commitments before approving any consumer credit contract. An application can be declined if the lender determines the loan is not affordable, even if the borrower wants to proceed.
A NZ open finance infrastructure provider. Akahu connects to NZ bank accounts using a secure, credential-based connection and enables third parties to access account data with the account holder's permission. Some NZ lenders use Akahu to access bank statement data as part of the affordability assessment process.
The legal framework that requires NZ financial institutions - including lenders and licensed financial advice providers - to verify the identity of their customers before providing financial services. Under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009, identity and address verification is a legal obligation, not a policy choice. This is why ID documents are required for every loan application.
The total cost of a loan expressed as an annual percentage, including interest and fees. The APR gives a more complete picture of the cost of borrowing than the interest rate alone. In NZ, the maximum APR on consumer loans is 29.95% per annum.
A loan is in arrears when one or more repayments have been missed and not made up. Being in arrears typically triggers a fee from the lender and, if not resolved, may be recorded as a missed payment on the credit file. Contacting the lender as soon as repayment difficulty arises is the most effective way to manage arrears before they escalate.
The maximum permissible loaded weight of a towable vehicle - including its contents - as specified by the manufacturer. Relevant to caravan and trailer finance because a tow vehicle must have a towing capacity rating equal to or greater than the ATM of the unit being towed. Exceeding the ATM is a legal and safety breach.
A record of transactions on a bank account over a specified period. For loan applications in NZ, lenders typically require three months of bank statements from all active accounts. Bank statements verify income, identify actual spending patterns and existing commitments, and allow lenders to assess how the account is managed - information the credit file alone cannot provide. Electronic submission via a service such as illion is the preferred method for most NZ lenders.
A short-term credit arrangement that allows purchases to be split into interest-free instalments, typically over a few weeks or months. Common NZ providers include Afterpay, Laybuy, and Zip. BNPL repayments appear as regular outgoings on bank statements and are factored into the affordability assessment as existing commitments, even if the individual amounts are small.
The primary piece of NZ consumer credit legislation. The CCCFA requires lenders to make reasonable enquiries into affordability and suitability before approving a loan, disclose all costs and terms before signing, and provide borrowers with a cancellation right. It also limits certain fees, requires plain-English disclosure, and gives borrowers rights when experiencing hardship. Most consumer lending in NZ - personal loans, car loans, hire purchase - is governed by the CCCFA.
One of three credit bureaux operating in NZ (alongside Equifax and Experian). Centrix collects and holds credit information on NZ borrowers, including repayment history, credit enquiries, and defaults. Lenders use Centrix data as part of credit assessments. Borrowers can request a free credit report from Centrix at centrix.co.nz.
A document provided by a motor vehicle dealer that sets out information about the vehicle, including the purchase price, any outstanding finance, and whether the Consumer Guarantees Act applies. Required as part of the documentation for a vehicle purchase from a dealer and submitted to the lender as part of the finance application.
A Financial Advice Provider licence class issued by the Financial Markets Authority. A Class 1 FAP can provide regulated financial advice across a range of retail financial products, including consumer credit products such as personal loans and vehicle finance. Nomu Finance Limited holds a Class 1 FAP licence (FSP1011169). Licence status is publicly verifiable on the Financial Service Providers Register at fsp.govt.nz.
Vehicle insurance that covers accidental damage, theft, and fire for the insured vehicle - as distinct from third-party insurance, which covers only damage caused to other vehicles or property. Most NZ lenders require comprehensive insurance to be in place for the duration of a secured vehicle loan, as the vehicle serves as collateral and the lender has an interest in ensuring it is protected.
NZ legislation that requires goods and services sold by traders to be of acceptable quality and fit for purpose. For vehicle purchases from a dealer, the CGA applies - the vehicle must be roadworthy and suitable for normal use. For private vehicle sales, the CGA does not apply - the buyer takes on the condition risk.
The right under the CCCFA to cancel a consumer credit contract after signing. In NZ, borrowers have five working days from the date they receive the disclosure statement to cancel the contract. The cooling-off period applies to most consumer credit contracts, including personal loans and vehicle finance. No reason needs to be given to exercise this right.
An organisation that collects and maintains credit information about individuals. In NZ, there are three credit bureaux: Centrix, Equifax, and Experian. Each bureau may hold slightly different information and use different scoring models. Borrowers can request a free credit report from each bureau.
A record created on a credit file when a lender accesses it as part of a credit application assessment. Multiple credit enquiries in a short period can signal financial urgency to subsequent lenders and may affect how applications are assessed. Checking your own credit file is a personal enquiry - it does not appear as a credit application and does not affect the score.
A record of an individual's credit history, held by credit bureaux. A NZ credit file typically includes credit enquiries, repayment history (for the last 24 months), defaults, court judgments, and basic identification information. Lenders review the credit file as part of the loan assessment process. Borrowers have the right to access their own file for free.
NZ legislation that governs how credit bureaux collect, use, and retain credit information. Under the Code, most negative credit events - including defaults - can remain on a credit file for up to five years. The Code also gives individuals the right to access their credit information and dispute errors.
A numerical summary of an individual's creditworthiness, calculated from the information in their credit file. NZ credit scores typically range from 0 to 1,000, with higher scores indicating lower assessed risk. Scores are calculated by credit bureaux - Centrix, Equifax, and Experian each use their own model, so scores may differ between bureaux.
A measure of a borrower's total debt obligations relative to their income, expressed as a percentage or ratio. A higher DTI indicates a greater proportion of income is already committed to existing debt repayments, which reduces the surplus available for a new loan repayment. Lenders use DTI as one input in the affordability assessment.
A formal record on a credit file indicating that a borrower has failed to meet the terms of a credit agreement - typically after one or more missed payments that have not been resolved despite contact from the lender. A default is distinct from arrears, which refers to missed payments that have not yet reached the threshold for a formal default record. Defaults generally remain on a NZ credit file for up to five years.
A document that NZ lenders are required by the CCCFA to provide to borrowers before any consumer credit contract is signed. The disclosure statement must clearly set out the interest rate, all fees and charges, the total amount repayable, the repayment schedule, what security is being taken, and the borrower's right to cancel. Reviewing the disclosure statement carefully before signing is a key protection for borrowers.
A fee charged by some lenders when a loan is repaid before the end of the agreed term. For fixed-rate loans, an early repayment fee may reflect the lender's actual loss from the early repayment - capped under the CCCFA at the amount of actual loss. For most unsecured personal loans, early repayment fees are not commonly charged, but the specific terms should be confirmed in the loan contract before signing.
One of three credit bureaux operating in NZ. Equifax collects and maintains credit information including repayment history, defaults, and credit enquiries. Borrowers can request a free credit report from Equifax at mycreditfile.co.nz.
A one-off fee charged by the lender when a loan is set up. The establishment fee is typically deducted from the loan proceeds at settlement or added to the loan balance. Establishment fees vary between lenders and loan types and are disclosed in the loan disclosure statement before signing.
One of three credit bureaux operating in NZ. Experian collects credit information and issues credit reports and scores. Borrowers can request a free report from Experian at experian.com/credit/credit-report.
A business or individual licensed by the Financial Markets Authority to provide regulated financial advice. FAP licence holders are subject to ongoing regulatory oversight and must adhere to a code of professional conduct, including duties to act in the client's best interests and disclose conflicts of interest. Nomu Finance Limited is a licensed FAP (FSP1011169). Licence status is verifiable at fsp.govt.nz.
An interest rate that is set at the start of a loan and does not change for the duration of the loan term. Fixed rates make repayments predictable and protect the borrower from rate increases. Most personal and vehicle loans in NZ are fixed rate.
NZ legislation that governs the provision of financial services and financial advice. The FMCA established the licensing regime for Financial Advice Providers (FAPs) and sets out the duties and obligations of licensed advisers. It operates alongside the CCCFA for consumer credit contexts.
A publicly searchable register maintained by the Companies Office of all financial service providers registered in NZ. Registration confirms that a provider is legally authorised to operate as a financial service provider. Consumers can verify a lender's or broker's registration status and licence details at fsp.govt.nz.
Guaranteed Asset Protection insurance. If a financed vehicle is written off or stolen, standard comprehensive insurance typically pays out the market value of the vehicle at the time of the loss - which may be less than the outstanding loan balance, particularly for newer vehicles that depreciate quickly. GAP insurance covers the difference between the insurance payout and the remaining loan balance.
A person who agrees to take responsibility for a loan if the primary borrower is unable to meet repayments. A guarantor is subject to their own credit and affordability assessment as part of the application. Guarantors are sometimes required for applicants with limited credit history or for learner-licence holders applying for vehicle finance.
A situation where a borrower is experiencing genuine difficulty meeting loan repayments due to circumstances beyond their control - such as illness, job loss, or relationship breakdown. Under the CCCFA, borrowers have the right to apply to their lender for a hardship variation - such as a temporary reduction in repayments or a repayment deferral. Lenders are required to consider the application. Free financial mentoring is available from MoneyTalks at moneytalks.co.nz.
A NZ credit and data services company. illion's Bank Statements service is used by many NZ lenders to receive electronic bank statements directly from a borrower's bank account - with the borrower's permission - as part of the affordability assessment. The connection is read-only and does not allow the lender to initiate payments or retain ongoing access after the assessment is complete.
The cost of borrowing money, expressed as an annual percentage of the loan balance. The interest rate determines how much interest accrues on the outstanding principal over the loan term. In NZ, most personal and vehicle loans carry a fixed interest rate. The interest rate alone does not capture the full cost of a loan - the total amount repayable, including fees, is the most useful comparison figure.
A fee charged by a broker or financial advice provider for introducing a borrower to a lender and arranging the loan. The introducer fee is separate from any establishment fee charged by the lender. Under the CCCFA, both fees must be disclosed to the borrower before the loan is signed. Nomu Finance may charge an introducer fee on loans arranged through its panel.
A financial adviser who operates under a FAP licence issued by the Financial Markets Authority. Licensed financial advisers have legal duties including acting in the client's best interests, disclosing conflicts of interest, and ensuring recommendations are suitable for the individual's circumstances. Nomu Finance operates as a licensed financial advice provider (FAP), not a direct lender.
The period over which a loan is repaid, usually expressed in months or years. NZ personal and vehicle loans commonly run from 12 to 84 months. A longer term means lower repayments but more total interest paid. A shorter term means higher repayments but lower total cost.
The ratio of the loan amount to the value of the asset being used as security. For vehicle loans, the LVR is the loan amount divided by the vehicle's registered market value. Most NZ lenders will not advance significantly more than the vehicle's registered value - typically up to 130% of registered value. A higher LVR represents higher risk for the lender.
The highest Annual Percentage Rate permitted on consumer loans in NZ under the CCCFA. The current maximum APR is 29.95% per annum. This cap applies to most consumer credit contracts, including personal loans, vehicle loans, and hire purchase agreements.
Insurance that covers the cost of unexpected mechanical and electrical failures on a vehicle. MBI is distinct from standard comprehensive insurance, which covers accidents, theft, and fire. MBI is particularly relevant for used vehicles where the manufacturer's warranty has expired. Cover typically applies at any licensed workshop.
The use of secure, permissioned data connections to allow third parties to access financial account information - with the account holder's consent. In NZ, services such as Akahu provide open finance infrastructure. Open finance connections are read-only and allow lenders to receive bank statement data as part of affordability assessments without requiring manual PDF uploads.
A publicly searchable NZ register of security interests over personal property, including vehicles. If a vehicle has existing finance registered against it, that interest is recorded on the PPSR and may follow the vehicle to a new owner. Checking the PPSR before purchasing any used vehicle - particularly a private sale - confirms whether existing registered finance exists. Search at ppsr.govt.nz.
An indicative loan approval issued before a specific vehicle or purchase is identified, based on the borrower's profile and a requested loan amount. Pre-approval gives a clear budget before visiting dealers or browsing private listings. It is typically subject to the specific vehicle or purchase meeting the lender's criteria when identified. Pre-approval is not a guaranteed final approval.
The original amount borrowed, excluding interest and fees. As repayments are made, the outstanding principal reduces. Interest is charged on the outstanding principal balance, so the total interest paid over the loan term decreases as the principal reduces.
The market value of a vehicle as listed in the NZTA vehicle register, typically based on standard trade guides. Lenders use the registered value as a reference point when assessing secured vehicle loans - they will generally not advance significantly more than the registered value. For newer or popular vehicles, the registered value is reliable; for older, unusual, or imported vehicles, it may be harder to establish.
A temporary pause on loan repayments, agreed with the lender. Interest typically continues to accrue during a repayment holiday, which increases the total cost of the loan. Repayment holidays may be available as a hardship provision or as a feature of specific loan products - confirm the terms with the lender.
The principle - embedded in NZ law through the CCCFA - that lenders must ensure a loan is affordable and suitable for the borrower before approving it. Responsible lending requirements prevent lenders from approving credit that creates unsustainable debt, regardless of whether the borrower requests it.
The interest rate that applies after an introductory or promotional rate period ends. Common in retail interest-free finance - a 0% interest-free period is followed by a standard rate (the revert rate) on any remaining balance. NZ retail finance revert rates are typically between 25% and 29.95% per annum. Always check the revert rate before committing to interest-free finance.
A legal document recording the terms of a vehicle or property sale between a buyer and seller. For private vehicle purchases, a completed sale and purchase agreement is required by most NZ lenders as part of the finance documentation. Nomu Finance can provide a sale and purchase agreement template for private vehicle purchases.
A loan that is backed by an asset - typically the vehicle being purchased - which the lender registers as collateral. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender may repossess and sell the asset to recover the outstanding balance. Secured loans generally attract lower interest rates than unsecured loans because the collateral reduces the lender's risk.
A certificate issued to caravans and motorhomes confirming they can operate independently of external services - water, toilet, and waste - for at least three days. Required for freedom camping on NZ council-controlled public land. Certificates expire and must be renewed. Portable toilets are no longer accepted under current NZ certification requirements.
The completion of a loan - the point at which funds are disbursed to the borrower or directly to the vendor. For vehicle purchases, settlement typically means the lender pays the dealer or private seller directly and the borrower receives the vehicle. Settlement generally occurs within 24 hours of loan approval and signing when all documentation is in order.
The total amount a borrower will pay over the full loan term, including principal, all interest, and all fees. The total amount repayable is the clearest single figure for comparing the actual cost of different loan options at the same amount and term. It is required to be disclosed in the CCCFA disclosure statement before signing.
A loan that is not backed by a specific asset as collateral. If the borrower defaults, the lender's recovery options are through legal action rather than repossession of an asset. Unsecured loans typically carry higher interest rates than secured loans, reflecting the increased risk to the lender. Personal expense loans - debt consolidation, medical costs, home improvements - are typically structured as unsecured.
An interest rate that can change over the loan term, typically in response to changes in market rates. Variable rate personal loans are less common in NZ consumer lending - most NZ personal and vehicle loans carry a fixed rate. A variable rate creates uncertainty in repayment amounts, which can complicate budgeting.
A document used in dealer vehicle sales in NZ that records the terms of the sale, including vehicle details, price, and any conditions. The VOSA is required by lenders as part of the finance documentation for a dealer vehicle purchase, alongside the Customer Information Notice (CIN).
A certificate confirming that a vehicle met minimum safety standards at the time of inspection, issued by an NZTA-approved inspection service. A current WOF does not guarantee overall mechanical condition - it confirms the vehicle passed a safety check at a specific point in time. Most lenders require a current WOF as part of the vehicle assessment for a secured loan. Motorhomes require a WOF; towable caravans may also require one depending on age.