FAQ About Renting a Campervan

Is the price shown the total price I pay?
No credit card surcharges here. Unlike some other rental companies that charge you a surcharge on the advertised price when you pay with your credit card, here the price you see is what you pay. The price includes insurance, fuel/milage tax, airport collection and more.
How Do I Choose a Rental Vehicle
Consider the number of people travelling, the sleeping arrangements (do you require double or single beds), consider how much baggage space you need, the distances you are likely to drive, the amount of comfort, space and amenities you require, if you will be staying on campsites or freedom camping.
Is There a Minimum Hire Period?
Yes. Usually 7 days and 14 days over Christmas/New Year.
What About Vehicle Safety?
All rental vehicles from licensed operators must undergo safety inspections every 6 months. Newer vehicles should have more safety features such as driver and passenger airbags and ABS brakes.
What About Seat Belts?
In New Zealand everyone travelling in a moving vehicle must be restrained by a seat belt.
What If The Vehicle Breaks Down?
Hire only from licensed operators who ensure their vehicles have 24hour breakdown cover. In the event that your hire vehicle cannot be repaired, the rental company should try to provide you an alternative/replacement vehicle.
Will There Be Any Additional Costs?
Not with the companies we deal with. But with other companies look for "excess kilometre charges", "transfer fees", "diesel charges", "one-way fees" or "additional driver charges". Any additional charges should be stated in the quote. (not to be confused with optional extras)
Can I Arrange a One-Way Hire?
Most rental companies offer one-way rentals between the main depots in Auckland and Christchurch in either direction. Sometimes there is a minimum hire period for a one-way rental, otherwise there may be a surcharge. Vehicles can also be returned to Queenstown and Wellington by special arrangement.
How Do I Make a Booking?
To protect yourself, you should obtain a quote for the travel dates/locations you require. The quote must have a reference number. The quote is not a booking. You must then make a booking (usually an online form or telephone call) and pay a deposit. You will then be sent a Booking Confirmation. Check all the details on the confirmation are as you expect.
Why Is There Such a Variance In Price Between Quotes?
Differences between quotes for the same dates from different companies are normally due to the quality and age of the vehicle or the terms of the insurance, or the number of "extras" that are included/excluded.
Can I Bring "Fluffy" Our Pet?
Sorry. Pets are not permitted.
How Old Are Rental Campervans?
Most rental companies run two 'brands' or 'fleets' - their 'premium' brand of vehicles less than a few (usually 3) years old, and their 'budget' brand for their older vehicles (usually less than 5 years). Beware - there are some budget or backpacker-style rental companies which use 'ex-rental' and imported secondhand vehicles, often older than 5 years.
What Is The Difference Between 'United' And 'Alpha' Brands?
United branded vehicles are less than 3 years old and higher specification vehicles. Alpha branded vehicles are slightly lower specs and 3 to 5 years old.
Are There Any Roads I Can't Drive On?
Several roads are not suitable for rental vehicles and these may be excluded in your Rental Agreement. They are 90-Mile Beach (top of the North Island), North of the Coromandel Peninsula, Skippers Canyon (near Queenstown), and Ball Hutt Road (near Mt. Cook). Some companies also preclude you from driving up ski-access roads and from parking close to any beach or river.
When Do I Need To Pay?
A deposit (being approx. $400) is required to secure the booking. The balance is due in full 30 days before hire commences. Payments can be made by credit card (Visa & Mastercard), New Zealand Dollar cheques, cash or bank deposit.