If you want to sell goods or services from a mobile shop, stall or similar set up in a public space, you will need a licence from us first.
Mobile traders can operate in different ways. Here's what each term means:
- Mobile shop - a vehicle (whether self-propelled or not) used to sell or hire goods or services in public places. This does not include vehicles used only to deliver goods or services that have already been ordered.
- Hawker - someone who travels from place to place selling or hiring goods or services.
- Mobile trader - anyone selling or hiring goods or services from a stall, or mobile shop that's regularly moved. This includes a hawker.
- Stall - a temporary setup like a stand, table, booth, tent, cart or similar structure used to sell or hire goods or services.
Read the full Mobile Traders Bylaw for detailed information and exemptions.
How to apply for a mobile traders licence
Apply at least 20 working days before you plant to start trading. You need to include the following to process your application smoothly:
- Complete the application form and police check form
- include 2 written character references
- if selling food - attach your Notice of Registration
- pay the fee.
We send your police check, this takes up to 20 working days to process.
Police check - we'll take care of it
As part of your application, we’ll send your full application to New Zealand Police for a background check. It's a simple step to help us confirm you meet our licensing requirements - it’s not a formal Police vetting.
You don’t need to organise anything yourself - we’ll handle the check as part of your application.
Where and when you can’t trade
If you plan to trade on a Council park or reserve, you need to apply for approval. This includes submitting a Commercial Activities application form to occupy the reserve and operate a commercial activity there. Commercial Activities Application Form
If you're planning to operate a mobile shop on a state highway where the speed limited is over 50km/h, you'll need approval from NZ Transport Agency.
Mobile trading is not allowed:
- In the central business district
- Outside schools or places of worship (unless approved)
- In residential areas without neighbour consent
- Near permanent retail shops (within 100m)
- Between sunset and sunrise
- For more than 7 hours in one spot (with an 8-hour gap before returning)
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