Whether you’re launching a contracting business, expanding your construction fleet, or taking on more demanding projects, getting into heavy equipment is a big move — and a smart one. At Vertu Equipment, we work with customers across Aotearoa who are new to machinery or upgrading from small tools to bigger gear. If you’re just starting your journey, here’s what you need to know about getting into heavy equipment in NZ.
1. Know What You Actually Need
Before diving into the world of excavators, loaders, dump trucks, or graders, it’s essential to clearly define your project needs. Ask yourself:
What kind of jobs will you be doing most often?
Are you mostly working in urban areas, rural properties, or remote work sites?
Do you need versatility, or a specialised machine?
If you’re working in tight spaces, something like the compact SANY SY18U or SY26U with a zero swing might be your best bet. But if you’re prepping large development sites, a larger model with a conventional swing like the SY135C, could save you time and money.
Chatting with an experienced equipment supplier (like our Vertu team) can help match you with the right gear — not just the most expensive.
2. Renting vs Buying New vs Buying Used – What’s the Best Move?
At a Glance Comparison
Understanding your usage needs is key to choosing whether to rent, buy new, or buy used heavy machinery. Here’s a refined breakdown:
Renting
Best suited for short term projects or when equipment is needed infrequently.
No long term financial commitment, and you avoid storage and maintenance costs.
However, frequent rentals can become expensive over time.
Buying New
Ideal if you use the equipment regularly and want peak reliability, warranty cover, and access to the latest safety and efficiency features.
You’ll own the machine outright, with immediate availability on every job.
Plus, thanks to the New Zealand Government’s Investment Boost program, expenditures on new equipment (made available for use from 22 May 2025 onwards) qualify for a 20 % upfront tax deduction plus standard depreciation on the remainder
For example, a $200,000 excavator could generate a $40,000 deduction in the first year—equivalent to $11,200 in tax savings at a 28 % corporate rate
This accelerated depreciation reduces your taxable income and improves cash flow, making equipment investment more accessible
Used equipment that was previously owned in New Zealand does not qualify for this boost—only new or imported, unused assets are eligible
Buying Used
Offers a lower upfront cost compared to new gear. A practical choice if you’re building your fleet on a restricted budget or your usage doesn’t justify new equipment yet.
Just remember: used machinery bought inside NZ won’t qualify for the Investment Boost.
Make sure you get service history, inspect for wear and defects carefully, or involve a mechanic before finalising a purchase.
3. Do a Walkaround
Before you commit to any machine, whether it’s new or used, a full inspection is essential. Look for:
Hydraulic leaks
Wear on tracks, pins, and bushings
Rust or corrosion (especially for NZ coastal regions)
Engine performance on cold start
Maintenance history (if used)
If you’re unsure, bring in a mechanic or ask for a demo. At Vertu, we encourage hands-on testing — most of our customers won’t sign the dotted line without jumping in the cab first.
4. Understand the Costs Beyond Purchase
The upfront cost of a machine is just the start. You also need to budget for:
Servicing and maintenance (filters, fluids, parts)
Transport or float fees
Fuel consumption
Machinery Insurance
Storage or security
Working with a local team like Vertu means you’ve got after sales support on hand and parts readily available. That ongoing support can be a game changer for new operators.
5. Get Trained Up
Heavy equipment is powerful — and with great power comes… paperwork. Depending on the machine and site, you may need:
A valid WTR (Wheels, Tracks, Rollers) endorsement
Site Safe or ConstructSafe qualifications
PPE and safety briefing compliance
6. Choose the Right Support Partner
Buying or hiring machinery isn’t a one-time transaction — it’s a relationship. When you partner with Vertu Equipment, you get:
Friendly, down to earth advice
Full parts and servicing support
Access to one of the fastest growing machinery brands globally: SANY
A team that knows New Zealand conditions, from Northland to Southland
Ready to Get Started?
Heavy equipment doesn’t have to be heavy going. Whether you’re after a nimble compact excavator for landscaping or a fleet of gear for civil works, we’ve got your back.
Let’s chat. Contact Vertu Equipment NZ today and take your first step into the world of heavy machinery — the smart, supported way.
