Motor Trade Association figures show the number of used, imported cars has reached its highest level in nearly five years.
In April, 10,539 used cars entered New Zealand - the biggest number since January 2008.
Compared with the same month last year, sales for used cars were up 26% to 7418.
Turners Auctions chief executive Todd Hunter says he's noticed a real recovery. He says there has been strong demand for vehicles like vans, especially in Christchurch.
Sales were also strong for new commercial vehicles, with 2235 sold, and the most registrations recorded since April 1982.
Sales for new passenger cars were also up, to 5,908, an increase of 9% compared to April 2012.
