Tesla Insurance NZ 2026: Save on EV Insurance.
Tesla’s popularity in New Zealand has grown rapidly. There are now more than 20,000 Teslas on New Zealand roads, contributing to a wider EV fleet that surpassed 100,000 NZ-new battery electric and plug-in hybrid registrations in early 2026. With more Teslas on the road, the need for the right insurance has grown alongside it. As EVs become more common, getting your head around Tesla insurance costs, and how they stack up against other electric cars like the BYD Atto and Nissan Leaf, is well worth the effort.
In this guide, we break down current Tesla insurance prices in New Zealand, explore the key factors driving these costs, and show you how to compare quotes in minutes with the Quashed Market Scan.
According to our Q1 2026 Quashed Index, the national average for comprehensive car insurance is now $1,267 per year. Our latest data also shows that 81% of Kiwis who shop their car insurance with the Quashed Market Scan find a cheaper policy, with average savings of $377 per year. For Tesla owners, where premiums tend to sit well above the national average, comparing properly is one of the few levers you can pull to keep costs in check.
Tesla cars in NZ
Before we look at the insurance options available for Tesla cars in New Zealand, let’s take a quick look at the lineup.
The Tesla lineup in New Zealand currently includes the Model 3 (compact sedan) and the Model Y (mid-size SUV), with the new six-seat Model Y L joining the range in 2026. The Model S and Model X are no longer part of the active local new-car lineup, and the Cybertruck is not officially sold in New Zealand.
The Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla, with the Premium RWD variant starting at $63,900. It falls under the compact sedan category, offering 520 km of WLTP range. For those after extended range, the Premium Long Range RWD is priced at $71,900 with 750 km WLTP range. The Performance Model 3 is priced at $84,900 and delivers 343 kW of power with 571 km WLTP range, offering enhanced acceleration and all-wheel drive capability.
When comparing the performance models of the Model 3 and Model Y, there are some key distinctions in driving dynamics and purpose:
The higher-spec Performance Model 3 focuses on a sportier, more agile experience, with its lower profile and quick acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. It offers 571 km of WLTP range, making it ideal for those after speed and long-range capability in a sleek sedan package.
The Model Y Performance is also quick, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds, and prioritises space and utility. It has a WLTP range of 580 km, a higher stance, and more cargo room, perfect for drivers who want SUV versatility without sacrificing speed and power.
Both models offer all-wheel drive and the capability to handle a variety of driving conditions, but the choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer the nimbleness of a sedan or the practicality of an SUV.
Is Tesla insurance available in NZ?
You might have heard about Tesla’s own car insurance making waves overseas and giving other insurers a fright about Elon’s next move. Unfortunately, it’s not available here in New Zealand.
In the United States, Tesla Insurance is now available in 14 states (including California, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin), with further expansion underway. The programme is underwritten by State National Insurance and uses real-time data from the vehicle to price risk, so Tesla owners don’t need to install any additional devices for it to work. Pricing is based on six factors: (1) Driving behaviour, (2) Distance travelled, (3) Vehicle type, (4) Home location, (5) Level of cover selected, and (6) Multi-policy discounts.
Tesla New Zealand instead offers an InsureMyTesla programme in partnership with Vero Insurance New Zealand Limited. This should not be confused with the Tesla Insurance programme available in the US. You can compare InsureMyTesla against other NZ insurers anytime on Quashed.
The locally available InsureMyTesla cover, in partnership with Vero, offers benefits including: new car replacement (up to 24 months or 40,000 km after a total loss), 20% standard excess reduction after 90 days (subject to a minimum $500 excess), cover for charging cables, adaptors, and other charging equipment, full glass cover including the panoramic roof (as an optional excess-free benefit), cover for damage to professionally installed vinyl wrap and paint protection film up to $2,000, and the option to exclude drivers under 25.
Standout features include the 24-month or 40,000 km new car replacement benefit (most insurers offer this only for cars under 12 months old, with Tower and MAS providing comparable two-year cover). A repair guarantee on work by approved repairers for as long as you own the vehicle is also included.
Want to find Tesla insurance that fits your needs? Compare InsureMyTesla against other NZ insurers in under two minutes with the Quashed Market Scan, where 81% of Kiwis find a cheaper policy.
Tesla insurance costs in NZ: how your location affects what you pay
Using our data, we assessed the lowest, average, and highest insurance premium costs for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. The assumptions and results are below:
Vehicle: Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y
Sum insured: $54,990 (Model 3) and $56,990 (Model Y)
Excess: $500
Driver profile: Male, aged 35
Policy type: Comprehensive car insurance
Tesla Model 3 insurance costs
Region | Lowest Premium | Average Premium | Highest Premium | Difference % |
Auckland | $2,492/year ($207.67/mo) | $2,773/year ($231.08/mo) | $2,948/year ($245.67/mo) | 18% |
Wellington | $2,346/year ($195.50/mo) | $2,483/year ($206.92/mo) | $2,620/year ($218.33/mo) | 12% |
Christchurch | $2,538/year ($211.50/mo) | $2,639/year ($219.92/mo) | $2,739/year ($228.25/mo) | 8% |
Source: Quashed Market Scan.
Tesla Model Y insurance costs
Region | Lowest Premium | Average Premium | Highest Premium | Difference % |
Auckland | $1,991/year ($165.92/mo) | $2,688/year ($224.00/mo) | $3,147/year ($262.25/mo) | 58% |
Wellington | $2,082/year ($173.50/mo) | $2,410/year ($200.83/mo) | $2,749/year ($229.08/mo) | 32% |
Christchurch | $2,056/year ($171.33/mo) | $2,495/year ($207.92/mo) | $2,755/year ($229.58/mo) | 34% |
Source: Quashed Market Scan.
What can we see in the data?
Analysis of insurance costs for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y across Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch highlights significant regional differences.
Tesla Model 3:
Wellington offers the most competitive overall pricing, with premiums ranging from $2,346 to $2,620 annually and a 12% spread between insurers. This suggests insurers view Wellington as a stable, lower-risk region for Tesla Model 3 drivers.
Auckland sits in the middle, with costs spanning $2,492 to $2,948 (18% spread). While not the cheapest, Auckland Model 3 insurance remains relatively accessible compared to the Model Y.
Christchurch shows the tightest pricing spread, with only an 8% difference between lowest ($2,538) and highest ($2,739) premiums. This indicates consistent insurer pricing and steady risk assessment in the region.
Tesla Model Y:
Auckland shows dramatic pricing variation (58%), with premiums ranging from $1,991 to $3,147 annually. The wide spread suggests highly competitive pricing among some insurers, while others price in higher Auckland-specific risks like dense traffic and theft rates.
Wellington demonstrates moderate variation (32%), with costs between $2,082 and $2,749 per year.
Christchurch falls in between (34%), ranging from $2,056 to $2,755. The variation reflects differing insurer approaches to Model Y risk assessment in the region.
Key insights:
Average Model Y premiums are actually slightly lower than Model 3 across all three regions. In Auckland, the Model Y averages $2,688 versus $2,773 for the Model 3; in Wellington, $2,410 versus $2,483; and in Christchurch, $2,495 versus $2,639. While the Model Y has a marginally higher sum insured in our scenario ($56,990 versus $54,990), the average premium difference favours the Model Y, likely reflecting differences in claims experience and how insurers price the two body styles.
Auckland presents the greatest opportunity for savings on the Model Y (potential savings of $1,156 per year between the highest and lowest quote), while Christchurch offers the most predictable Model 3 pricing.
Regional competition varies significantly. Auckland has the widest range of quotes for the Model Y, making comparison shopping especially valuable.
These differences underscore how location and vehicle model impact Tesla insurance pricing. However, where you live and what you drive are only part of the puzzle. Age is another major factor that influences premiums. Younger drivers often face higher insurance costs due to a higher likelihood of claims, while experienced drivers in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s typically benefit from lower rates.
But how much does age influence Tesla insurance costs? Let’s break down how premiums change across different age groups.
Does age impact Tesla insurance costs?
Insurance premiums for Teslas, like other vehicles, vary based on several factors, and age is a major one. Younger drivers, particularly those in their 20s and early 30s, typically face higher insurance costs due to perceived risk, while more experienced drivers in their 40s, 50s, and 60s often benefit from lower premiums.
To illustrate this, we’ve modelled a scenario on Market Scan:
Vehicle: Tesla Model 3
Sum insured: $54,990
Excess: $500
Driver profile: Female
Policy type: Comprehensive car insurance
Location: Te Aro, Wellington
Source: Quashed Market Scan.
Source: Quashed Market Scan.
What can we see in the data?
The data clearly highlights how age impacts Tesla Model 3 insurance costs, with significant variations across different age groups.
A 30-year-old driver pays the highest premiums in this comparison, with costs ranging from $2,337/year ($194.75/month) to $2,860/year ($238.33/month). This reflects insurers’ perception of higher risk for drivers in their early thirties.
By age 40, premiums drop notably, ranging from $2,070/year ($172.50/month) to $2,464/year ($205.33/month), reflecting roughly an 11 to 14% decrease from age 30. This suggests insurers reward the accumulated driving experience and typically lower claims rates of drivers in their forties.
At age 50, costs show a moderate change, with premiums between $2,002/year ($166.83/month) and $2,279/year ($189.92/month). While the lowest premium at 50 is competitive, the pattern breaks from the typical age-based decline.
60-year-old drivers secure the best rates overall, paying between $1,818/year ($151.50/month) and $2,050/year ($170.83/month). This represents around 22% lower costs compared to 30-year-olds, rewarding decades of driving experience and established safety records.
Key findings:
The savings from age 30 to 60 are substantial, with over $1,000 per year difference between the highest premium for a 30-year-old ($2,860) and the lowest for a 60-year-old ($1,818).
Age-based pricing is not linear. The drop from 30 to 40 is more dramatic than subsequent age brackets, suggesting insurers place particular emphasis on the transition from early to mid-career drivers.
Range of quotes varies by age. 30-year-olds see a $523 spread between insurers, while 60-year-olds see only a $232 spread, indicating more consistent pricing for experienced drivers.
This steady decline in premiums aligns with insurance risk models, which typically reward more experienced drivers with lower rates. As drivers age, they generally develop safer driving habits, accumulate longer claims-free records, and present lower statistical risk to insurers.
Why age matters for Tesla insurance
For Teslas, this pricing trend is especially pronounced because:
Higher repair costs: Teslas require specialised repair shops and expensive parts, making insurers cautious about covering less experienced drivers who might be more prone to accidents. The premium difference of more than $1,000 per year between age groups reflects this heightened concern.
Advanced technology: Features like Autopilot could play a role in reducing claims, but younger drivers may be less familiar with how to use them effectively or may place excessive trust in these systems.
Risk assessment models: Insurers base pricing on historical claim data, and younger drivers statistically file more claims. The data shows that being 30 versus 60 could cost you more than $1,000 per year, a substantial premium based on age and experience alone.
Your age is a key factor in how much you’ll pay for Tesla insurance. While younger drivers face higher costs, maintaining a clean driving record and adjusting policy settings like excess can help reduce premiums over time. It is also fundamentally important to ensure that your sum insured amount is accurate.
How much should I insure my Tesla for?
The sum insured for your Tesla should reflect the current market value of the vehicle, including any upgrades and modifications. For newer Tesla models, consider the replacement cost, accounting for depreciation, repair expenses, and parts availability.
If you’re looking at a used Tesla, it’s worth using Trade Me’s car valuation tool, which is free of charge. This simple, easy-to-use valuation tool helps you determine the approximate market value of your car by analysing recent sales data of similar vehicles listed on the platform.
By entering key details like make, model, year, and mileage, the tool generates a value range to give you an idea of what your car might be worth in today’s market. This is particularly useful when you’re buying, selling, or insuring a vehicle like the Tesla Model 3.
How Tesla insurance compares to the New Zealand average
Comparing Tesla premiums against the broader market puts Tesla insurance costs into context. Based on our latest Q1 2026 Quashed Index data:
The national average for comprehensive car insurance in New Zealand is $1,267 per year ($106 per month).
Auckland drivers pay an average of $1,478 per year ($123 per month).
Wellington drivers pay an average of $1,115 per year ($93 per month).
Canterbury drivers pay an average of $1,166 per year ($97 per month).
Even the lowest Tesla Model 3 quote in our scenario ($2,346 per year for a 35-year-old male in Wellington) sits well above the national comprehensive average. This reflects what we have discussed throughout this guide: higher repair costs, specialised parts, advanced technology, and a smaller pool of certified repairers all push EV premiums up.
Here is the upside. Kiwis who run a Quashed Market Scan for their car insurance find a cheaper policy 81% of the time, with average savings of $377 per year. Across an average New Zealand household paying for car, house, and contents insurance, the loyalty tax of staying put with one insurer can run as high as $1,560 per year.
For Tesla owners, where annual premiums frequently sit between $2,000 and $3,000, even a small percentage saving can translate into hundreds of dollars back in your pocket. It is worth shopping your renewal every year.
Supercharging your Tesla insurance search with Quashed
With Quashed, you can compare Tesla insurance quotes easily, skipping the hassle of multiple websites and endless forms. Our platform provides real-time quotes, personalised options, and an easy way to manage all your policies.
Join over 100,000 Kiwis already using Quashed to make smarter insurance decisions. Run a free Quashed Market Scan in under two minutes and see where your Tesla policy stacks up.
Further reading
Looking for more insights on car insurance? Check out these related guides:
Average Cost of Car, House, and Contents Insurance NZ 2026: The latest Quashed Index data on what Kiwis are paying.
Electric Vehicles: Do They Cost More to Insure?: A deep dive into EV insurance vs petrol vehicles.
Comparing Insurance Costs for Top Cars: See insurance costs of popular vehicles in New Zealand.
Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive?: Breaking down why insurance premiums are rising.
Smart Ways to Slash Your Car Insurance: Practical tips to keep your Tesla insurance costs under control.
Cheapest Versus Best Car Insurance in NZ: How to strike the right balance between cost and coverage.
Key Considerations with Car Insurance: Important things to weigh up before choosing a policy.
FAQs
Is insurance higher on a Tesla?
Yes, it can be, as we’ve shown in our blog, Electric Vehicles: Do They Cost More to Insure? Tesla insurance in New Zealand can be considered expensive compared to vehicles powered by internal combustion engines due to various factors. The advanced technology and high cost of Tesla vehicles often lead to higher collision repair and replacement costs, which insurers take into account when calculating premiums. Additionally, the limited availability of specialised Tesla repair shops can also contribute to higher insurance costs.
Do insurers cover the glass roof on the Tesla?
Usually yes, but it depends on the insurer. Most include the panoramic roof under standard glass cover, though some apply different excesses or sub-limits. Check your policy wording to confirm how your insurer handles it. Many insurers also offer the option to remove the excess for windscreen and glass claims.
How can I reduce my Tesla insurance premiums?
There are several ways to lower the cost of insuring a Tesla:
Shop around: Get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best deal.
Increase your excess: Opting for a higher excess can reduce your premium, but make sure it is an amount you are comfortable paying in the event of a claim.
Maintain a clean driving record: No claims and no traffic violations often lead to discounts.
Bundle policies: Some insurers offer discounts if you combine car insurance with home or contents insurance.
Is Tesla Auto Insurance available in New Zealand?
No, Tesla’s official telematics-based insurance is not available in New Zealand. However, the InsureMyTesla programme, underwritten by Vero, is available for NZ owners. You can obtain a quote through the InsureMyTesla portal and compare it against other options on the Quashed Market Scan.
Are Tesla batteries covered by insurance?
Yes, comprehensive car insurance typically covers accidental damage to your Tesla’s battery. However, normal wear and tear or degradation over time is not covered. Some policies also exclude coverage for battery damage caused by improper charging, so reviewing your policy terms is crucial.
Are repair costs higher for Teslas in New Zealand?
Yes, Tesla repairs in NZ can be expensive. With specialised materials, advanced tech, and a limited number of certified repairers, fixing a Tesla can cost more and take longer than a standard petrol car. Many parts have to be imported, which means longer wait times, and insurers price that risk into your premium.
Does my location affect Tesla insurance premiums?
Absolutely. Where you live can impact how much you pay for Tesla insurance. High-traffic areas like Auckland tend to have higher premiums due to increased accident risk, while regions with fewer Tesla-certified repairers may also see higher costs. On the flip side, if you are in a lower-risk area with less congestion and crime, you might secure a cheaper premium.
What should I check when buying a second-hand Tesla in NZ?
Buying a used Tesla is a smart move, but not all second-hand Teslas are equal. Check the battery health, as degradation can affect range and long-term value. Make sure the vehicle history is clean, including any accident repairs, and confirm whether it was NZ-new or imported (some insurers price imports differently). Tesla’s software updates and warranties also vary between older models, so check if features like Full Self-Driving (FSD) or premium connectivity are transferable.
