Nissan SAFARI
5,140 registered in New Zealand · 1979–2007 · 100% from Japan
The Nissan SAFARI is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 5,140 registered across model years 1979 to 2007. It averages 12.4 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 85 kW. Most are diesel-powered station wagons with a 4.2L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the SAFARI.
Fuel Types
Nissan SAFARI fuel type breakdown: DIESEL 97%, PETROL 3%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Nissan SAFARI vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Nissan SAFARI fleet age profile: 1996: 162, 1997: 129, 1998: 130, 1999: 45, 2000: 22.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Nissan SAFARI transmissions: 5-GEAR MANUAL 0%.
Engine Size
Nissan SAFARI engine sizes: 4.2L 56%, 4.2L 33%, 4.2L 2%, 3.2L 1%, 2.8L 1%.
Imported From
Nissan SAFARI imported from: Japan 100%, Australia 0%, New Zealand 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Nissan SAFARI vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Nissan SAFARI NZ arrival timeline: 2021: 2, 2022: 7, 2023: 3, 2024: 1, 2025: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Nissan SAFARI.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Nissan SAFARI regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 1,043, CHRISTCHURCH: 373, FAR NORTH: 253, WAIMAKARIRI: 204, WHANGAREI: 182.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Nissan SAFARI are there in New Zealand?
There are 5,140 Nissan SAFARI vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.1% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1979 to 2007.
How much does it cost to run a Nissan SAFARI?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Nissan SAFARI averages 12.4 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $98 per week or $5,074 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Nissan SAFARI?
The Nissan SAFARI is primarily classified as a station wagon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: light van, utility, saloon. The most common fuel type is diesel.
Are Nissan SAFARI cars imported or NZ-new?
100% of Nissan SAFARI vehicles in New Zealand originated from Japan. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.