Table of Contents
MTF Finance is one of New Zealand’s most established non-bank lenders, trusted by Kiwis for more than 50 years. With a strong reputation for personalised service, local franchise ownership, and flexible lending solutions, MTF Finance has become a go-to choice for vehicle loans, personal lending, and business finance across the country.
This comprehensive guide explains how MTF Finance works, what loan products they offer, how their interest rates and fees operate, and the pros and cons of choosing a non-bank lender. You’ll also find contextual internal links to related topics, helping strengthen user navigation and SEO structure on your site.
What Is MTF Finance?
MTF Finance, originally founded as Motor Trade Finance in 1970, was created by car dealers who wanted to offer simple, flexible finance for everyday New Zealanders. Though vehicle finance remains at the core of their business, MTF has expanded into a broader lending company that supports personal loans, business funding, and asset finance.
Unlike online-only lenders, MTF Finance operates through locally owned and operated franchises throughout New Zealand. This means customers deal directly with people who understand their community — not offshore call centres or automated chatbots. The benefit is a more personal approach, quicker decision-making, and lending assessments tailored to individual circumstances rather than rigid corporate criteria.
As a registered lender, MTF Finance also complies with the NZ Responsible Lending Code, ensuring borrowers are treated fairly and given loans they can reasonably afford.
What Is MTF Finance? — Summary Table
| Key Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Motor Trade Finance (MTF Finance) |
| Founded | 1970 by NZ motor vehicle dealers |
| Type | Non-bank lender |
| Ownership | NZ-owned, franchise model |
| Services | Vehicle loans, personal loans, business & asset finance |
| Main Strength | Local franchise offices offering personalised lending |
| Lending Style | Realistic, human assessment vs automated bank scoring |
| Regulation | Must follow NZ Responsible Lending Code |
MTF Finance in Numbers — Track Record & Market Standing (2023-2025)
Recent financial results underscore MTF’s stability and market strength. As of their 2023 annual report, MTF’s lending assets exceeded NZ$1.01 billion, and profit after tax rose by 38% compared to the previous year.
Their low arrears rate — less than half the industry average — combined with consistent growth in originations and a widening franchise network (51 + offices nationwide) speaks to both trust and demand.
Including these figures not only demonstrates credibility to potential borrowers but also helps search engines recognise the page as authoritative and up-to-date.
MTF Finance in Numbers (2023–2025)
| Metric | Value / Insight |
|---|---|
| Lending Assets | NZ$1.01B+ (2023) |
| Profit After Tax | ↑ 38% YoY (2023) |
| Franchise Locations | 51+ across NZ |
| Arrears Rate | Less than half the NZ industry average |
| Years Operating | 50+ years |
| Main Growth Areas | Vehicle finance, SME lending, secured personal loans |
| Market Reputation | Highly trusted, strong customer satisfaction |
What Loans Does MTF Finance Offer?
MTF Finance provides several lending products designed for everyday needs — from buying vehicles to funding personal goals to supporting business growth. Below is a detailed breakdown of each type.
MTF Loans summary table
| Loan Type | Description | Typical Borrowers |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Loans | Cars, vans, SUVs, utes, motorcycles, boats, motorhomes | Everyday buyers, dealers |
| Asset Finance | Business tools, machinery, equipment, trailers | SMEs, tradies, contractors |
| Secured Personal Loans | Backed by a vehicle or asset | Borrowers needing lower rates |
| Unsecured Personal Loans | No security required | Higher-risk or flexible-use borrowers |
| Business Loans | Equipment, fleet, cashflow, growth | Small/medium NZ businesses |
Vehicle and Asset Finance
Vehicle finance is the flagship service offered by MTF Finance. Borrowers can apply for loans to purchase:
Vehicle & Asset Finance — Summary Table
| Category | Covered Items | Why Choose MTF |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicles | Cars, utes, SUVs, vans, motorbikes | Fast approvals, dealer partnerships |
| Recreational | Boats, caravans, motorhomes | Flexible terms, local decision-making |
| Business Assets | Machinery, tools, work vehicles | Tailored SME assessments |
| Turnaround Time | Same-day approval possible | Great for urgent purchases |
Many people choose MTF Finance for vehicle loans because of their fast approval turnaround and long history in the vehicle finance space. A major advantage is that MTF works with numerous car dealerships throughout New Zealand, allowing buyers to apply for finance directly at the dealership — sometimes securing finance on the same day.
For readers comparing options or wanting to explore more vehicle-specific financing, you can guide them to your dedicated page through contextual linking — for example:
If you’re comparing loan providers for your next car purchase, our detailed guide on car finance options explains how lenders structure repayments, interest, and vehicle eligibility.
Why Borrowers Choose MTF over Traditional Banks
Unlike major banks, MTF Finance delivers a community-driven, franchise-based model: you deal with locally owned lending offices and people who understand regional economic realities. This local presence — instead of faceless nationwide call-centres — often translates into more realistic credit assessments, especially for borrowers whose income or credit history may not meet strict bank criteria. For many Kiwis, this means faster approvals, more flexible repayment schedules, and loan decisions tailored to personal, real-world circumstances rather than rigid bank algorithms.
Moreover, MTF’s history since 1970 and consistent customer feedback (4.9/5 Trustpilot, high Net Promoter Scores) show that many borrowers feel supported rather than pressured — a significant differentiator when interest rates and repayments can be stressful.
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Local expertise | Franchise owners understand their communities |
| Human assessments | More flexible for self-employed & non-standard income |
| Faster approvals | Often same-day decisions |
| Long-standing reputation | 50+ years in NZ finance |
| High customer satisfaction | Strong Trustpilot/NPS ratings |
Personal Loans
In addition to vehicle lending, MTF Finance offers both secured and unsecured personal loans. These can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as:
- Home renovations
- Medical expenses
- Travel and holidays
- Debt consolidation
- Education or tools for study
- Emergency costs
- Family events, weddings, or funerals
Secured personal loans typically attract lower interest rates because they are backed by a vehicle or other asset. Unsecured loans, while more flexible, generally have higher interest rates due to the added risk for the lender.
To enhance topical depth, you can connect users to relevant guidance like:
For borrowers comparing MTF to other lenders, our in-depth personal loans overview breaks down the pros and cons of secured vs unsecured finance and what to consider before applying.
Business Loans and Equipment Finance
MTF Finance also supports small and medium-sized businesses with asset-based and unsecured lending options. Typical uses include:
- Purchasing work vehicles or fleets
- Buying tools, equipment, and machinery
- Upgrading technology
- Cash-flow support
- Trade materials and supplies
- Office upgrades
- Seasonal business expenses
The personalised support from MTF’s franchise offices is especially helpful for small business owners who prefer hands-on guidance. Local lenders often understand the economic challenges in their region, which makes their assessments more realistic and flexible.
To help guide business owners to more detailed information, include contextual linking such as:
If you’re exploring finance for your company, our comprehensive guide on business finance in New Zealand explains how SME lenders compare and what criteria they typically use to assess applications.
MTF Finance Interest Rates and Fees
Understanding the true cost of borrowing is crucial before applying for any loan. MTF Finance is transparent about its rates and fees, but your specific rate will depend on:
- Whether the loan is secured or unsecured
- Your credit history
- Stability of your income
- Age and type of vehicle (for secured loans)
- Overall level of risk
- Loan term and repayment structure
Below is a deeper look at what borrowers can expect.
Interest Rates
MTF’s interest rates fall into typical non-bank lending ranges:
- Secured loans: Starting at around 9.90%
- Unsecured loans: Starting at around 13.25%
Borrowers with excellent credit and stable employment may receive lower rates, while those with past defaults or inconsistent income may be offered higher rates.
Fees to Consider
MTF Finance includes several standard fees commonly found among non-bank lenders:
- Loan establishment fee: Up to approx. $376
- PPSR fee: $10.35 for secured loans
- Monthly admin fee: Usually between $7–$9
- Early repayment fee: About $19.33
- Loss on full prepayment: If market rates have shifted
- Late payment fees: Additional interest and penalties
- Repossession fees: If secured collateral is collected
These fees can significantly affect your total borrowing cost, especially for long-term loans.
For readers unsure about how fees impact affordability, you can guide them to tools that help calculate repayments:
To estimate how fees and interest affect your weekly or monthly payment amount, try our online finance calculator to compare repayment scenarios before applying.
Interest Rates Table
| Loan Type | Typical Starting Rate |
|---|---|
| Secured Loans | ~9.90%+ |
| Unsecured Loans | ~13.25%+ |
| Business Asset Loans | Varies by risk & asset |
| Business Unsecured | Higher than secured |
Fees to Consider
| Fee Type | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Establishment Fee | Up to ~$376 |
| PPSR Fee | $10.35 |
| Monthly Admin Fee | $7–$9 |
| Early Repayment Fee | ~$19.33 |
| Late Fees | Additional interest/penalties |
| Repossession Fees | Applied for secured defaults |
Pros and Cons of MTF Finance
MTF Finance has several distinct advantages, but it also has potential drawbacks depending on the borrower’s needs and financial situation.
Advantages of MTF Finance
✔ Personalised, Local Service
Borrowers benefit from dealing with local franchise lenders who offer tailored support and understand the economic realities of their region.
✔ Fast Approval Times
Many customers receive approval within the same day, making MTF ideal for urgent purchase needs.
✔ Flexible Lending Options
MTF provides both secured and unsecured loans, giving borrowers flexibility depending on their circumstances and credit profile.
✔ Wide Range of Loan Types
From personal loans to vehicle finance and business lending, borrowers can use MTF for numerous financial goals.
✔ Ideal for Non-Bank Customers
People who don’t meet strict bank criteria often turn to MTF for fair, realistic assessments.
Disadvantages of MTF Finance
❌ Higher Interest Rates Than Banks
As a non-bank lender, MTF rates are typically higher than major banks, especially for unsecured loans.
❌ Additional Fees
Establishment fees, admin fees, and early repayment fees add to the total loan cost.
❌ Limited Online Experience
While MTF offers online applications, much of the process is still branch-driven — which may not suit those who prefer fully digital lending.
❌ Risk of Asset Repossession
For secured loans, borrowers risk losing their vehicle if payments fall behind.
Eligibility Requirements for MTF Finance
Borrowers must meet several criteria to qualify for an MTF Finance loan:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold NZ citizenship, residency, or an eligible visa
- Provide proof of income (salary, wages, benefits, etc.)
- Provide recent bank statements
- Show ID such as a driver licence or passport
- Be able to afford repayments under the Responsible Lending Code
For secured loans, borrowers must also provide a suitable asset as collateral.
The Application Process
Applying with MTF is straightforward. After submitting an online or in-branch application, borrowers provide ID, proof of income, and (when required) recent bank statements. A local franchise lender then performs a responsible lending assessment, often delivering a decision the same day, especially for vehicle and secured loans.
Once approved, you sign a contract specifying repayment terms (weekly, fortnightly or monthly). MTF offers both secured and unsecured loans — with secured loans generally attracting lower rates because they’re backed by a vehicle or asset.
This transparent, stepwise process — from application to release — helps manage borrower expectations and reduces uncertainty, a feature many users highlight in reviews.
- Submit an online or in-branch application
- Provide documentation including ID, bank statements, and proof of income
- Assessment by local lender who reviews your situation
- Approval decision — often within the same day
- Loan contract issued with clear terms and repayment schedule
- Funds released or vehicle purchase finalised
Borrowers can choose weekly, fortnightly, or monthly repayments depending on their preference.
Is MTF Finance Right for You?
Who Should Consider MTF — (And Who Might Be Better Off With a Bank)”
MTF tends to perform best for:
- Self-employed, contractors, or borrowers with non-traditional income streams.
- Those needing quick approval for vehicles, tools, or business equipment — especially when traditional banks might decline.
- Borrowers who value personal, face-to-face guidance and prefer local lenders rather than automated online-only services.
However, for individuals with strong credit, stable income, and the ability to satisfy stringent banking criteria — and for whom lowest possible interest rate is paramount — a bank might still offer cheaper borrowing. Higher interest rates, establishment/admin fees, and potential repossession risk (for secured loans) make MTF less optimal for borrowers prioritising minimal cost above flexibility or speed.
MTF Finance is a strong option if you:
- Prefer a personalised, local lending experience
- Need fast financing for a vehicle or personal expense
- Want more flexibility than banks usually provide
- Are self-employed, a contractor, or a new business
- Need equipment or asset finance
However, if your primary concern is the lowest possible interest rate and you have a strong credit profile, a major bank may offer cheaper options.
🧠 Competitor / Alternative Lenders & Why to Reference Them
| Lender | What They Offer / Why They Matter |
|---|---|
| UDC Finance | Long-standing specialist vehicle & asset lender — good for cross-comparing car loans vs MTF |
| Heartland Bank | Bank-status lender offering motor vehicle, livestock, small business finance — useful alternative when borrowers want banking-type security |
| Harmoney | Online/p2p personal loan lender — interesting comparison for unsecured personal loans without collateral |
| Major NZ Banks (e.g. ANZ, ASB, Westpac, BNZ) | For borrowers with strong credit looking for bank-backed personal or car finance — useful counterpoint to non-bank lenders |
By referencing these, your page can target many variations of search intent: “MTF vs UDC”, “MTF vs Heartland”, “best car finance NZ 2025”, “non-bank vs bank loan NZ”, etc.
How MTF Compares with Other New Zealand Lenders
It helps to directly compare MTF with other lenders — both non-bank and banks — to address “vs” queries that many users type. For example:
- UDC Finance — another prominent specialist finance company.
- Heartland Bank — offers motor vehicle finance among other banking services.
- Harmoney — a peer-to-peer / online lender for unsecured personal loans.
This section can cover: interest rate ranges, product offerings (vehicle vs personal vs business), application processes (franchise-based vs fully online vs bank), fees & flexibility, trust/reputation metrics — enabling readers to see where MTF stands in the broader NZ lending ecosystem.
Real Borrower Experiences & What They Reveal About MTF
While many customer reviews are positive — highlighting fast approvals, friendly service, and ease of getting funded for cars, vans or personal loans — there are also more critical anecdotes shared informally online (on forums, Reddit, etc.) warning about possible repossession risks or aggressive servicing in some cases. For balanced coverage, summarise a mix of verified reviews (e.g. from Trustpilot) and community feedback. This transparency builds trust with readers and can reduce bounce rate — especially for savvy borrowers doing due diligence.
Final Thoughts
MTF Finance remains one of New Zealand’s most respected non-bank lenders due to its local focus, fast assessments, flexibility, and broad loan offerings. Whether you are buying a vehicle, funding a renovation, or expanding your business, MTF offers realistic lending options supported by experienced franchise lenders across the country.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of what MTF Finance offers, how it works, and how it compares — while also linking readers to internal resources that help strengthen your site’s authority and improve user navigation.
FAQs
What is MTF in finance?
MTF refers to Motor Trade Finance, a New Zealand finance company that provides vehicle loans, personal loans and business lending through a nationwide franchise network.
What is the interest rate for MTF finance?
MTF Finance interest rates vary depending on credit profile, income, loan type and security. Secured loans typically start around the lower end of non-bank market rates, while unsecured loans are priced higher due to increased risk.
Who owns MTF finance?
MTF Finance is a New Zealand–owned company operating through locally owned franchises and governed by a board of directors.
What is the full form of MTF finance?
The full form of MTF is Motor Trade Finance.
What is an MTF in finance?
In New Zealand lending, MTF refers specifically to Motor Trade Finance, a company offering consumer and business loans.
How does MTF finance work?
MTF operates through local franchise offices and approved dealers. Borrowers apply online or in branch, provide identification, income details and bank statements, then undergo a credit and affordability assessment. Approved loans are issued with either secured or unsecured terms depending on the asset and borrower profile.
What does MTF stand for in banking?
In the context of this lender, MTF stands for Motor Trade Finance. In other regions or industries it may mean other terms, but in NZ consumer lending it refers to this company.
What is MTF in banking?
In New Zealand banking and finance, MTF refers to Motor Trade Finance, a company providing vehicle and personal finance products.
What is MTF short for?
MTF is short for Motor Trade Finance.
Is MTF a loan?
MTF itself is not a loan; it is a finance company that provides different types of loans, including vehicle, personal and business finance.
What is the interest rate for MTF loans?
MTF offers secured and unsecured loans, each with different rates. Secured loans, such as those backed by vehicles, generally have lower interest rates than unsecured loans.
What is the interest rate for MTF?
MTF’s interest rate depends on whether the loan is secured, the borrower’s credit score, income stability and the loan term. Lower-risk borrowers tend to receive the most competitive rates.
Is a 200% interest rate legal?
A 200% interest rate would generally be considered unlawful or non-compliant with responsible lending obligations in New Zealand. There are rules preventing excessive or oppressive interest and fees in consumer lending.
What is the interest rate for a mortgage in 2025?
Mortgage rates vary by bank, term and market conditions. MTF does not offer mortgages, so borrowers should compare current rates from New Zealand banks and lenders.
Which MTF broker has the lowest interest rate?
MTF interest rates are determined by borrower risk profile rather than the franchise office itself. The best rate for each borrower depends on their credit, income, loan security and term.
Which bank is offering a 4.99 interest rate in NZ?
This is unrelated to MTF. Banks change promotional rates frequently, so borrowers must check current offers directly with New Zealand banks or mortgage lenders.
Who is the CEO of MTF Finance?
The CEO of MTF Finance is Chris Lamers.
Who started MTF Finance?
MTF Finance began in 1970, created by New Zealand motor vehicle dealers who wanted to offer more flexible vehicle finance options.
Who is the chief credit officer of MTF?
The Chief Credit Officer is Zoe Anderson.
What does MTF stand for in finance?
MTF stands for Motor Trade Finance.
Is midf government or private?
MIDF (which is unrelated to MTF) refers to a different organisation outside New Zealand. It is not connected to MTF Finance.
What does MTF finance stand for?
MTF Finance stands for Motor Trade Finance.
What is the MTF meaning in finance?
MTF, in the context of New Zealand lending, means Motor Trade Finance.
How to check MTF loan balance?
Borrowers can check their loan balance by logging into their MTF account, contacting their local franchise or requesting a statement using their loan reference number.
What is the interest rate for MTF finance personal loan?
MTF personal loan rates depend on whether the loan is secured, the borrower’s credit rating and income. Secured personal loans usually have lower rates than unsecured ones.
Is MTF trading safe?
MTF Finance is a regulated New Zealand lender and must comply with the Responsible Lending Code. For borrowers, this means loan products follow NZ consumer credit rules. For investors, safety depends on individual risk assessments and financial performance data.
Who is the CEO of MTF finance?
The CEO is Chris Lamers.
