Switching car insurance providers is easier than most people expect. You don’t need special paperwork, you don’t need to “transfer” your policy, and you don’t need permission from your current insurer.

In most cases, changing insurers simply means buying a new policy first, then cancelling your old one.

If you’ve found a cheaper price or better coverage elsewhere, you can switch at any time.

This guide explains exactly how the process works and how to gather quotes and information from insurers like AA Insurance, Cove Insurance, and Tower Insurance.
 

The Simple Way to Switch (Step-by-Step)

Changing insurers is usually just three steps:

• Compare quotes
• Start your new policy
• Cancel your old one

That’s it. There’s no complicated transfer process.

As long as your new policy starts before the old one ends, you stay fully covered.
 

Step 1 – Check What You Have Now

Before switching, quickly review your current policy so you can compare properly.

Look at your:

• coverage type

• excess

• car value (agreed or market)

• optional extras

• renewal date

This helps you avoid accidentally choosing less protection just because the price looks cheaper.

If you need a refresher on policy types, read Car Insurance Explained.
 

Step 2 – Decide What Cover You Actually Need

Not every driver needs comprehensive insurance.

A simple rule of thumb:

• Older/low-value cars → third party
• Mid-value cars → third party fire & theft
• Newer or expensive cars → comprehensive

You can compare each option here:

• Third Party Car Insurance

• Third Party Fire and Theft

• Comprehensive Car Insurance

Choosing the right cover first makes comparing insurers much easier.
 

Step 3 – Get Quotes and Information

Now you shop around.

Most NZ insurers let you get a quote online in 2–3 minutes. You simply enter your car details, drivers, and desired excess.

You can check providers such as:

• AA Insurance – strong service and broad comprehensive features
• Cove Insurance – quick online setup and flexible monthly plans
• Tower Insurance – established insurer with a range of add-ons

When getting quotes, keep everything the same (same excess and coverage) so you’re comparing fairly.

If you want help understanding pricing differences, see Car Insurance Cost.
 

Step 4 – Compare More Than Just Price

The cheapest policy isn’t always the best.

A slightly higher premium might include things like:

• free windscreen cover

• rental car after accidents

• lower excess

• better claims service

These benefits can save you hundreds later.

You can see our comparisons on Best Car Insurance.

Step 5 – Start the New Policy First, Then Cancel

This is the most important part.

Always:

1. Purchase the new policy

2. Confirm the start date

3. Then cancel your old insurer

Never cancel first — you don’t want a gap without cover.

Most insurers will refund unused days, minus a small admin fee.
 

What Information Do Insurers Ask For?

Getting quotes is quick because you only need basic details:

• car registration or model
• driver details
• address
• claims history
• chosen excess

That’s usually enough to get an instant price.
 

When Should You Switch?

Good times to compare:

• at renewal
• after buying a new car
• if your premium increases
• if you’re unhappy with service

Even checking once a year can save money.
 

Final Answer: How Do You Actually Change Insurers?

Simply put:

You buy a new policy, make sure it starts, then cancel your old one.

There’s no transfer or complicated process. Just choose better cover, start it, and switch.

If you’re ready to compare options, start here:

• Coverage Types

• Car Insurance Excess

• Best Car Insurance

• Car Insurance Explained