20%
Discount
Car rental agencies in New Zealand typically include basic insurance to protect the vehicle against theft and collision. To understand the specifics, it's important to review the terms and conditions of your rental agreement. If you're responsible for an accident, you may need to pay an excess fee. However, you can purchase additional insurance such as Collision Damage Waiver or Loss Damage Waiver to reduce your financial liability if the rental car is damaged.
Opting to hire a car with cash involves several steps and may incur extra fees for mandatory services. Car rental companies generally require a bond for the vehicle, refundable if there is no damage upon return. You may also be subject to an insurance fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $30 per day.
Booking your rental car early is advisable to secure the best rates and ensure you get the vehicle you want. The pandemic led to a reduction in available rental cars, causing shortages and increased prices. While most companies provide basic insurance, additional coverage may require a deposit or excess payment.
In New Zealand, car rental companies usually ask for a security bond, which is often equivalent to the chosen insurance excess amount. This excess can vary, starting at NZ$750 for car rentals and reaching up to NZ$5,000 for campervan rentals.
Embarking on a journey to New Zealand offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Despite recovering from a major earthquake, the country's allure remains intact, boasting stunning landscapes, majestic glaciers, and lush forests. The warmth and hospitality of the Kiwi people add to the charm of this picturesque nation.
For wildlife enthusiasts, New Zealand is a treasure trove of unique species. The enchanting glowworms, exclusive to the region, can be observed in the magical Waitomo Caves. A visit here provides a rare chance to witness these luminescent creatures, an experience scarcely found elsewhere.
Fans of "The Lord of the Rings" will be delighted by the opportunity to explore The Shire, nestled in the Mount Maunganui area. This idyllic slice of Middle Earth is an essential stop for visitors, complete with the iconic 'Green Dragon Inn', a beloved highlight of New Zealand.
Astronomy aficionados will find New Zealand's night skies mesmerizing. The country boasts several Dark Sky Reserves, sanctuaries against light pollution, offering pristine conditions for stargazing. Prime viewing locations are situated near Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. For an added touch of magic, imagine stargazing from a kayak on the serene waters of Lake Tekapo.
Electric car hire is increasingly becoming a choice for those in New Zealand, with a Canstar survey revealing a significant interest among Kiwis in renting hybrid or electric vehicles over traditional petrol cars. However, the cost remains a substantial hurdle. The survey indicates that nearly half of the population would opt for an electric or hybrid vehicle if given a choice, signaling a growing trend, albeit not yet widespread.
Some rental companies are adapting to this change. Easy Transport, for example, has included a Nissan LEAF in its fleet and introduced an all-electric van. Although Green Cabs has ceased operations on Waiheke Island, it's expected that other rental agencies will also start offering electric vehicles (EVs) to meet customer demand.
There are a number of car rental companies in New Zealand that provide electric vehicles, with most offering a limited selection of one or two models. These EVs typically have a range of about 200 kilometres (124 miles). It's important to compare the options from different rental companies to find the one that best fits your travel needs.
Renting an electric car can also lead to savings on fuel costs. Some rental companies even allow you to charge the vehicle overnight, which can be a cost-effective alternative to refueling with petrol and contributes to a cleaner environment.
