Frequently Asked Questions

What are your standard operating hours at Rental Cars New Zealand?

Our standard office hours are from 8am – 5.30pm. We are open for confirmed bookings on public holidays except Christmas Day (25 December).

How do I book a vehicle hire with Rental Cars New Zealand?

You can book online using our fully secure booking system – this way you will get our best rates! Alternatively for North Island bookings you can call us on our free phone 0800 112 345; or 0800 888 358 for South Island bookings. If you are calling outside of New Zealand you can reach us on +64 9 275 2422 (North Island) or on +64 3 358 1358 (South Island).

How do I pay for my rental car and do you charge a deposit?

At the time of booking we require a credit card details. We do not charge the credit card, however a signed imprint of the credit card is required in the name of one of the drivers when picking up the vehicle. Full payment is required at the commencement of the hire. Rental Cars New Zealand accepts all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and Amex), EFTPOS, cash and approved purchase orders from companies, schools, and clubs. However, we do not accept debit cards or cheques (including travellers).

I don't have a credit card, does Rental Cars New Zealand accept cash bonds?

We do accept cash bonds, however the full amount of the excess of the vehicle will have to be paid and this can be up to NZ$3,000.00. Payment by any other method other than credit card is by prior arrangement only. Please note that all cash bonds will not be refunded straight away and may be held for a couple of weeks to cover any infringements that may have occurred.

Are Rental Cars New Zealand prices all inclusive?

All rental vehicle prices quoted are in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax (GST), unlimited kilometres (for all hires 4 days or more), and standard insurance. Any airport fees or one way fees that apply to a hire will be included in the quotation. Vehicle hires outside our office hours may incur an after hours service fee which will be advised with the after hours procedure when we confirm your rental vehicle reservation. A small credit card surcharge will apply to payments made by credit card.

How do you calculate your daily rates?

At Rental Cars New Zealand all our rates are calculated on a 24 hour period. The minimum hire cost for a vehicle is one 24 hour period. For hires under 4 days a kilometre cap (km cap) of 150kms per day will apply. Any additional mileage above the km cap is charged at a set rate. All hires 4 day and over will be unlimited kilometres.

Does the vehicle rate include fuel?

No. All our vehicles are supplied with a full tank of fuel. All hirers pay for their own fuel so the vehicle needs to be returned with a full tank of fuel. Additional charges will apply if your vehicle is not returned full.

Is there an additional charge for more than one driver?

There is no additional charge for additional drivers at Rental Cars New Zealand. Each driver must present their drivers licence at the time of vehicle collection and be named on the rental agreement.

Can we hire accessories from Rental Cars New Zealand?

Yes we offer a range of accessories from baby seats to GPS units. Check our accessories page.

Are one way hires available?

Yes. The vehicle must be dropped at a Rental Cars New Zealand branch or agency. A one way fee and minimum hire period will apply.This will show in your online quotation.

Can I take my vehicle on the ferry between the North and South Islands?

Yes. At Rental Cars New Zealand we can arrange your ferry booking. You can book this option online as part of your vehicle booking or discuss with our customer service team.

How old do I have to be to rent with Rental Cars New Zealand?

You can hire a vehicle if you are 18+ years of age and hold a valid drivers license.

What driving license do I need to hire a vehicle from Rental Cars New Zealand?

You must hold a valid drivers license from your home country for the class of vehicle you wish to hire. All drivers licenses need to have an English translation, we recommend an International Driver's License as the most accepted option.

What do I need to bring to the depot when I collect a vehicle?

We require two items when you are collecting the vehicle: 1) All drivers intending to drive will be required to provide their current drivers licence relevant to the class of vehicle they are hiring. We are legally obliged to view your drivers license every hire, whether you are a casual or regular hirer. 2) A credit card, which must be in the name of one of the drivers.

Do you offer a free pick up from accommodation?

Rental Cars New Zealand offers a free pick up from any accommodation within 5km of our depot or by arrangement. Our free pick up service is only available during our normal business hours. Prior arrangement is required if you wish to collect your vehicle outside of normal business hours and an additional fee may apply.

Can I pick up a vehicle after hours?

Yes. We do offer a late pick up service by prior arrangement. An additional fee may apply for after hours service. For further detail refer to our 'After Hours Services' page.

Can I return a vehicle to you after hours?

Yes, we do allow pre arranged after hours drop offs, however, customers need to be aware that they are liable for any damage that may be incurred until the vehicle is checked in during our standard office hours the following day. For further detail refer to our 'After Hours Services' page.

Can I return a vehicle to the airport?

By prior arrangement only your rental vehicle may be returned to some airport locations. Please be aware that additional fees may apply.

What happens if I return my vehicle early?

If you return your vehicle earlier than the agreed date then there is no refund. Personal travel insurance should cover all unexpected emergency if this is the case.

What happens if I return my vehicle late or wish to extend?

If you return your vehicle late or extend your hire, an additional charge may apply. Rental Cars New Zealand is reasonably flexible in late returns (can offer a grace period), however, your daily rate will be charged for extensions. All late returns and extensions are based on a case by case scenario, subject to availability and need to be approved by our customer service team. Failure to do so may result in a fee of up to $500.00 Personal travel insurance should cover all unexpected emergency if you are charged additional fees.

What happens if my vehicle breaks down?

At Rental Cars New Zealand your vehicle is covered by a 24 hour breakdown service included in your daily rate (for mechanical breakdown only). We maintain all of our vehicles to a high standard for your safety and comfort. However in the unfortunate event that your vehicle does break down, we will endeavour to have the problem fixed within a reasonable time frame and get you back on the road. If we are unable to fix the problem we will provide you with a replacement vehicle. Non mechanical break down charges will be at the hirer's expense i.e. flat battery, tyres/wheels, lost keys/locked out of vehicle etc. Should you encounter any problems, call the Roadside Service telephone number displayed on the windscreen of your vehicle, or contact a Rental Cars New Zealand branch.

What happens if I have an accident or need assistance?

You should contact us directly at Rental Cars New Zealand on 0800 112 345 (North Island) or 0800 888 358 (South Island). Please note: if this is a serious road accident/emergency then you should call 111 for help before contacting us.

What is your Insurance Excess?

Our standard insurance excess (also known as deductable) for most vehicles is $2000.00 for drivers aged 25 years and older. For drivers under the age of 25 years a higher insurance excess will apply.

Is it compulsory to take Insurance Cover?

Standard insurance is included in our rates and is subject to an insurance excess in the event of any loss or damage. We offer you the option to purchase Insurance Excess Reduction which reduces your excess on the vehicle and you pay a set cost per day. You can book this option online as part of your vehicle booking or discuss this with our customer service team.

What is your Cancellation Policy at Rental Cars New Zealand?

Please advise us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your booking. We are always happy to move your dates (subject to availability) if required. If adequate notice is not given (48 hours) a cancellation fee may apply, although we are happy to deduct any cancellation fee off your future hires.

Do Rental Cars New Zealand offer long term rentals?

Yes. Contact our customer service team to discuss your individual requirements on 0800 112 345 or email us directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.