Speed Camera Fines in New Zealand: Complete 2025 Guide
Caught by a speed camera? Here's everything you need to know about speeding fines in New Zealand.
Speed Camera Fine Amounts
Fines depend on how much you exceeded the limit:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine | |------------------|------| | 1-10 km/h | $30 | | 11-15 km/h | $80 | | 16-20 km/h | $120 | | 21-25 km/h | $170 | | 26-30 km/h | $230 | | 31-35 km/h | $300 | | 36-40 km/h | $400 | | 41-45 km/h | $510 | | 46-50 km/h | $630 | | Over 50 km/h | Court |
Important: Speeding by more than 40 km/h can result in a 28-day licence suspension. Exceeding 50 km/h over the limit may result in dangerous driving charges.
Fine amounts sourced from NZ Police (2025)
Camera vs Officer-Issued Fines
Speed camera fines do not carry demerit points. This is a key difference from officer-issued tickets.
If you're stopped by a police officer (rather than caught by camera), demerit points apply:
| Speed Over Limit | Demerit Points | |------------------|----------------| | Up to 10 km/h | 10 | | 10-20 km/h | 20 | | 20-30 km/h | 35 | | 30-35 km/h | 40 | | Over 35 km/h | 50 |
How the System Works
Camera Detection
- Camera captures your vehicle exceeding the limit
- Image reviewed for clarity and accuracy
- Vehicle owner identified through number plate
- Infringement notice sent (now often via email or MyNZTA)
Time Frame
- Notices usually arrive within 2-4 weeks
- You have 28 days to pay or request a hearing
Note: From 1 July 2025, NZTA operates the safety camera network and can issue notices digitally.
Payment Options
You can pay your fine:
- Online: Via MyNZTA or the payment portal on your notice
- Phone: Call the infringement number on your notice
- In person: At service centres
- By post: Send payment with your notice
Payment Plans
If you can't pay immediately, you can request a payment plan.
Demerit Points System
New Zealand uses a demerit point system for officer-issued offences:
- 100 points in 2 years: 3-month licence suspension
- Points stay on record: For 2 years from offence date
- 50 point warning: NZTA sends a warning letter
Remember: Camera-detected offences don't add demerit points, but officer-issued tickets do.
Disputing a Fine
If you believe the fine is incorrect:
- You can request a court hearing within 28 days
- You'll need to explain why you dispute the fine
- Evidence from cameras is typically very clear
- Consider whether it's worth your time
Valid Dispute Reasons
- Vehicle was stolen at the time
- Someone else was driving (you must identify them)
- Technical error (rare)
Rental Car Fines
If you're a tourist:
- Rental companies pass fines to you
- They may add an administration fee
- Pay promptly to avoid complications
Prevention is Best
The best approach is avoiding fines altogether:
- Know the speed limits
- Use our camera map to stay aware
- Leave plenty of travel time
- Drive to conditions, not just limits
Find Camera Locations
View all cameras on our interactive map to stay informed.
This content has been fact-checked against official sources but may contain inaccuracies. This is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For current fine amounts and legal requirements, consult NZ Police and NZTA.