Compare quotes from NZ motorcycle insurance providers side-by-side. Find the right cover for your road bike, cruiser, sports bike, or adventure tourer. 100% free.
Select the category that best describes your bike.
Approximate current market value.
Your region affects your premium.
How motorcycle insurance works in New Zealand and why most riders choose to have it.
Motorcycle insurance is a contract between you and an insurance provider that covers damage to your bike, other people's property, or both - depending on your level of cover. Like car insurance, it is not compulsory in New Zealand, but riding without it carries significant financial risk.
ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) covers personal injuries from motorcycle accidents, but it does not cover damage to your motorcycle, your riding gear, or other people's property. If you cause an accident without insurance, you are personally liable for all property damage costs.
Motorcyclists face unique risks compared to car drivers. Bikes are more vulnerable to theft, more exposed to weather damage, and riders are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. Quality riding gear alone - helmet, jacket, pants, boots, and gloves - can cost $2,000 to $5,000+, and some policies include gear cover.
Key point: Motorcycles are among the most commonly stolen vehicles in New Zealand. Even a basic Third Party Fire & Theft policy (from around $250/year) protects against theft while also covering you for damage to other people's property.
When taking out comprehensive cover, you will typically choose between agreed value and market value. Agreed value locks in a payout amount upfront - particularly useful for modified or rare bikes where market value may not reflect true worth. Market value means the insurer pays what the bike is worth at claim time.
For more information about insurance in New Zealand, see the FMA's insurance guide.
There are three main types of motorcycle insurance available in New Zealand.
The most basic cover. Only pays for damage you cause to other people's vehicles or property. Your bike is not covered.
Mid-tier cover. Covers others' property plus your bike if stolen or damaged by fire. A common choice for mid-value bikes.
Full protection. Covers your bike and others' property from accidents, theft, fire, weather, vandalism, and natural disasters. May include riding gear.
The right policy depends on your bike, how you ride, and how much risk you are comfortable carrying.
A side-by-side comparison of providers offering motorcycle insurance in New Zealand.
| Provider | Cover Types | Online Quotes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| AA Insurance | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | All-rounder |
| AMI | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Multi-policy |
| State | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Bundling |
| Tower | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Competitive pricing |
| Vero | Comp, TPFT | Broker only | Via broker |
| Star Insurance | Comp, TPFT | ✓ | Specialist bikes |
| Cove | Comp, TP | ✓ | Digital-first |
| Swann Insurance | Comp, TPFT, TP | ✓ | Motorcycle specialist |
Comp = Comprehensive | TPFT = Third Party, Fire & Theft | TP = Third Party Only
Disclaimer: Features and cover options may change. Always verify details directly with the provider before purchasing. If you have noticed something incorrect, please let us know.
An in-depth look at the most popular motorcycle insurance providers in New Zealand.
Cove is New Zealand's fastest-growing digital insurance brand. Get a motorcycle insurance quote in under 60 seconds, manage everything online, and enjoy clear policy wording with no hidden surprises.
One of NZ's largest insurers. Offers motorcycle cover with all three levels of protection. AA Roadside Assistance may be included with comprehensive policies.
One of NZ's most trusted brands with strong nationwide presence. Offers motorcycle insurance with competitive multi-policy discounts.
Known for competitive pricing and a straightforward online quote process. Tower offers motorcycle insurance with flexible excess options.
Specialist insurer known for covering imported, modified, and performance vehicles including motorcycles. A strong option for non-standard bikes.
Motorcycle insurance specialist with a strong focus on riders. Offers tailored policies with riding gear cover and accessories protection.
Long-standing NZ brand under IAG. Strong multi-policy discounts when bundled with home or contents insurance.
Disclaimer: Ratings are editorial assessments based on publicly available information. Prices shown are indicative estimates only. Always verify features and pricing directly with the provider.
A comparison of what each level of motorcycle insurance typically includes.
| Feature | Third Party | TPFT | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damage to other people's property | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Theft of your motorcycle | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fire damage to your motorcycle | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Accidental damage to your motorcycle | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Weather & natural disaster damage | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Vandalism | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Riding gear cover | ✗ | ✗ | Some policies |
| Accessories & modifications | ✗ | ✗ | If declared |
What motorcycle insurance typically does not cover.
Most policies exclude any form of racing, competition, or track day use. Some providers offer separate track day cover as an add-on. Always check before heading to the circuit.
Claims will typically be declined if the rider does not hold a valid motorcycle licence for the class of bike being ridden, or if a learner rider breaches licence conditions.
Aftermarket modifications (exhaust, engine tuning, suspension) that are not declared to the insurer may void your cover. Always disclose modifications when taking out or renewing a policy.
Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs will void your cover. Claims will be declined if you were over the legal blood alcohol limit at the time of the incident.
Standard insurance does not cover mechanical or electrical failures. Separate mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) is available for this. Wear and tear is also excluded.
Some policies exclude off-road use unless the bike is registered for on-road and off-road riding. Check your PDS if you ride trails or gravel roads regularly.
The main factors insurers consider when calculating your premium.
Sports bikes and high-powered machines cost more to insure due to higher accident statistics. A 1000cc supersport may cost 2 - 3x more than a 300cc commuter.
Younger riders (under 25) pay significantly more. Riders with a full licence and several years of claims-free riding benefit from lower premiums.
Urban areas (especially Auckland) attract higher premiums due to higher theft and accident rates. Rural areas may be cheaper but still vary by region.
Secure parking (locked garage), disc locks, chains, alarms, and GPS trackers can all reduce your premium. How and where you store your bike matters.
Most NZ insurers offer up to 60 - 65% discount after 5+ claim-free years. One at-fault claim can reset your discount, though NCB protection may be available.
Daily commuters typically pay more than weekend-only riders. Some insurers offer limited-use discounts if you ride fewer than a set number of kilometres per year.
Indicative annual comprehensive premiums by motorcycle type for a rider aged 30 - 50 with a clean record.
Disclaimer: These figures are indicative estimates based on publicly available data and general market observations as of early 2026. Actual premiums will vary. These are not quotes.
Practical ways to reduce your motorcycle insurance premium in New Zealand.
Prices vary significantly between providers. Getting 3 - 4 quotes takes minutes and could save you hundreds per year.
A higher voluntary excess lowers your premium. Just ensure you can comfortably afford the excess if you need to claim.
Disc locks, heavy-duty chains, alarms, and GPS trackers can all reduce your premium. Keeping your bike in a locked garage helps too.
Monthly payments usually include fees and interest that add 5 - 10% to the total cost. Paying upfront saves money over the year.
Up to 65% discount is available after 5+ claim-free years. Consider whether small claims are worth the NCB impact.
Many insurers offer multi-policy discounts when you bundle motorcycle, car, home, or contents insurance together.
Restricting your policy to named riders only (rather than any rider) can lower your premium, especially if all named riders are over 25.
If your bike is worth under $3,000, Third Party Fire & Theft may be more cost-effective than comprehensive cover.
How to switch motorcycle insurance providers and what to check at renewal time.
Start comparing quotes from other providers 2 - 4 weeks before your renewal date. Have your current policy details handy for accurate comparisons.
Ensure you are comparing the same level of cover, excess, and agreed/market value. Check that riding gear cover and accessories are included if you need them.
Take out the new policy to start on the same day your old one ends. Ensure there is no gap in cover - even a single day uninsured is a risk.
Contact your current insurer to cancel. Most policies can be cancelled at any time without penalty. Confirm your no-claims bonus transfer in writing.
What to do if you need to make a claim on your motorcycle insurance.
Move to a safe location. Call 111 if anyone is injured. For non-emergencies, call police on 105 if required.
Take photos of all damage, the scene, and any other vehicles involved. Get contact and insurance details from other parties.
Lodge your claim as soon as possible. Most insurers offer 24/7 claims lines and online claim forms.
An assessor will evaluate the damage. Your insurer will advise whether the bike will be repaired or written off.
Once approved, repairs are arranged or a payout is made. You pay your excess. Keep records of all communications.
Key things that make motorcycle insurance in New Zealand different.
New Zealand's ACC scheme covers personal injury costs for all motorcycle accidents regardless of fault. This includes medical treatment, rehabilitation, and weekly compensation if you cannot work. However, ACC does not cover damage to your motorcycle, gear, or other people's property. Motorcycle riders pay a higher ACC levy than car drivers, reflecting the higher injury risk. This levy is included in your annual registration fee via Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
New Zealand's varied terrain and weather create unique risks for motorcyclists. Roads range from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding rural routes with gravel shoulders. Weather can change rapidly, especially in the South Island and mountainous regions. Natural disaster cover (earthquakes, floods, volcanic activity) is typically included in comprehensive policies but may carry a separate, higher excess. The riding season runs year-round for many Kiwi riders, though winter brings additional hazards like frost, ice, and reduced visibility. Many insurers may factor in regional weather risks when calculating your premium.
What to look for in your motorcycle insurance PDS before you buy.
The PDS outlines exactly what events and types of damage are covered. For motorcycle insurance, check whether riding gear, accessories, and pillion passengers are included.
Look for exclusions specific to motorcycles: track days, racing, off-road use, unlicensed riders, and undisclosed modifications are common exclusions to check.
Check the standard excess, any age-related excess (under 25), voluntary excess you have chosen, and whether natural disaster claims have a separate excess.
The PDS will outline how to make a claim, timeframes for lodging, and what documentation you need. Understanding this before you need it saves time during a stressful situation.
Common questions about motorcycle insurance in New Zealand.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, insurance, or legal advice. All pricing shown is indicative and based on publicly available data and typical rider profiles as of early 2026. Actual premiums will vary based on your motorcycle, location, riding history, and chosen cover level. These figures are not quotes - always obtain a personalised quote directly from the insurer.
Note: Compare.org.nz earns referral fees from some providers featured on this page. Sponsored content is clearly labelled and does not affect the completeness or order of our comparisons. Features, pricing, and policy terms may change without notice - always verify directly with the insurer before purchasing. For personalised financial guidance, consider consulting a licensed financial adviser.
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