Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

When registering for and using the Portal, we collect the following information directly from you:

• Full name and business name
• Email address and phone number
• Registered Motor Vehicle Trader (RMVT) number
• Physical business address
• Vehicle listings, images, and related descriptions
• Payment information (if applicable, e.g., subscription fees)
• Any additional information voluntarily provided through registration, account updates, or communications with Motor Connect

2. How Information is Collected

We collect information exclusively through:

• Portal registration and account sign-up forms
• Account updates or communications via email or phone
• Vehicle listings and images uploaded to the Portal

Note: The Portal does not collect information automatically via cookies, tracking pixels, or analytics software.

3. Purpose of Collecting Information

Information collected is used for the following purposes:

• Verification: To confirm your status as a registered motor vehicle trader in New Zealand and eligibility to use the Portal.
• Account Management: To create, maintain, and administer user accounts.
• Service Delivery: To facilitate creation, viewing, and responses to vehicle listings within the Portal.
• Customer Support: To respond to inquiries, troubleshoot issues, and provide assistance.
• Optional Marketing: To send updates, news, or promotional offers only if you have opted in.
• Advertising & Insights: Aggregated or anonymised business data (e.g., dealership location or listing activity) may be used for targeted Portal features, insights, or promotions. No personal information is shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
• Legal Compliance & Enforcement: To comply with legal obligations, enforce our Terms & Conditions, resolve disputes, or protect the rights, property, or safety of Motor Connect, its users, or others.

4. Data Storage & Security

• All personal information is stored securely on Digital Ocean servers.
• Personal information may be stored on servers located outside New Zealand. By using the Portal, you consent to this overseas storage, which will be subject to comparable safeguards under the Privacy Act 2020.
• Access to personal information is restricted to authorised Motor Connect Limited personnel who require it to perform their job functions.
• Reasonable steps are taken to protect data from unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These steps include secure password practices, restricted system access, and industry-standard data protection measures.
• While reasonable precautions are taken to protect information, no method of storage or transmission over the internet is completely secure. Information is provided at the user’s own risk.

5. Data Retention

• Personal information will be retained for the duration of your account or subscription and for up to six (6) months after account closure.
• Information may be retained longer where required by law, necessary for dispute resolution, enforcement of Terms & Conditions, or other legal obligations.
• Once the retention period expires, information will be securely deleted.

6. Dealer Responsibility & Due Diligence

• Dealers are responsible for ensuring that all information they provide is accurate, lawful, and up-to-date.
• Dealers must use information obtained through the Portal solely for legitimate trading purposes and in good faith.
• Dealers are responsible for performing their own due diligence in all transactions and interactions with other users.

7. Disclosure of Information

We may disclose personal information to third parties:

• Where required by law, regulatory authorities, or government agencies.
• To enforce our Terms & Conditions or protect the rights, property, or safety of Motor Connect, its users, or others.
• To third-party service providers assisting with the operation of the Portal, provided they are bound by confidentiality obligations.

Note: We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

8. Access, Correction & User Rights

Under the Privacy Act 2020, users have the right to:

• Request access to personal information held by Motor Connect.
• Request correction of any incorrect or outdated personal information.

Requests can be made via email to support@motorconnect.co.nz. Identification may be required before processing.

9. Breach Notification

In the event of a privacy breach likely to cause serious harm, Motor Connect will notify the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner and affected users in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.

10. Cookies & Tracking

The Portal does not use cookies, tracking pixels, Google Analytics, or other automated data collection tools.

11. New Zealand Users Only

The Portal is intended solely for use by registered motor vehicle traders in New Zealand. Services are not offered to individuals or businesses outside New Zealand.

12. Changes to this Privacy Policy

Motor Connect may update or modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Users will be notified of significant changes via email (if provided) or by posting a prominent notice on the Portal. Changes take effect immediately unless stated otherwise.

13. Contact Information