This site is for N.Zeta owners to share information and experience.
Open Forum
If you are doing or have done a restoration on one of these classic scooters and want to share information then join this forum. If you have spare parts or are looking for bits and pieces than post to the appropriate forum. If you have pictures of your N.Zeta, restoration or info use the forum.
About
In 1960 an Auckland company, JNZ Manufacturing Ltd, began importing partially un-assembled Czechoslovakian Cezeta scooters which they then assembled under the name ‘N-Zeta’. Initially it was thought to be fitted with a larger, 200cc two stroke motor, however this isn’t the case as both the 501 and 502 have 175cc engines. Production ceased in 1963, and today these machines are sought after by collectors.
The point of New Zealand production was that high import duties were placed on imported motor vehicles. New Zealand assembly reduced the imported cost and hence the duty. Further, New Zealand manufacture of components further reduced the duty. JNZ Manufacturing Ltd apparently achieved 50% New Zealand manufacture by value, with the addition of tyres, seat, trim, lights, controls etc.
The 501 model is identified visually by a center skirt horn and dual exhausts plus they have vents on the rear panels and a centre stand. The 502 model is identified visually by no center skirt horn, a single exhaust and usually came with a side stand. The 502 was available with electric start. Most mechanical parts were common with Jawa/CZs motorcycle range, except for the frame and wheels.
N.Zeta scooters were short-lived and have become collector’s items, decades after the company closed its doors. The company failed to survive due to a lack of demand for their scooters at the time
Scooters were the ideal item for zipping around in the major cities through traffic, but New Zealand at the time had few large urban areas. More powerful motorbikes, able to deal with the rugged rural roads, proved far more suitable for most Kiwis looking for two wheeled transportation.