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 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.

Vehicle and Asset Finance

Vehicle finance is the flagship service offered by MTF Finance. Borrowers can apply for loans to purchase:

• Cars
• Utes
• Vans
• SUVs
• Motorcycles
• Boats and marine craft
• Caravans and motorhomes
• Trailers
• Business vehicles and machinery

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.

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.

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

The application process for MTF Finance is simple and straightforward:

1. Submit an online or in-branch application
2. Provide documentation including ID, bank statements, and proof of income
3. Assessment by local lender who reviews your situation
4. Approval decision — often within the same day
5. Loan contract issued with clear terms and repayment schedule
6. Funds released or vehicle purchase finalised

Borrowers can choose weekly, fortnightly, or monthly repayments depending on their preference.

Is MTF Finance Right for You?

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.

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.