Yes. Insurance for a single day is available.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Similarly, when in New Zealand, think about car rental insurance. While you may be excited about visiting iconic landmarks or embarking on a road trip through the island, the last thing you want to worry about is unexpected repair costs in case of an accident. Fortunately, rental car insurance can be your financial safety net.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance NZ
Get StartedWarranty | What does it cover? | How much does it cover? |
---|---|---|
Damage due to collision or theft | Reimbursement of the deductible applied by the rental company as a result of accidental damage caused to the vehicle, including tires, windshield, underbody and other parts | $ 2,500 - $ 4,500 |
Improper Fuel Use Charges | Tank emptying costs and vehicle towing, when the wrong fuel is refueled into the vehicle by mistake. | $ 500 |
Loss or theft of keys | In the replacement of lost or stolen keys, including lock and locksmith costs. | $ 500 |
Towing charges | Covers the tow truck of the rented car in the event of a breakdown or accident. | $ 500 |
Vehicle return charges | If as a result of an accident or illness with hospitalization you cannot return the vehicle. | $ 250 |
Personnal belongings | In case your baggage, personal belongings or valuables are taken, permanently lost or unintentionally damaged during your trip | $ 500 |
Hotel expensses | If You are unable to use your rental vehicle as a result of it being stolen or damaged | $ 150 |
Fabulous service. There was some damage to the car, which the rental company claimed was my fault, which I totally refuted. Following a few e-mails between them and myself, they decided to charge my credit card for the damage, and I had no option but to pay. I opened a claim at CarInsuRent, and within a few days they reimbursed me the whole amount.
Renting a car in New Zealand offers the freedom to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace. However, before you hit the open road, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of car rental insurance in New Zealand. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the crucial aspects of car rental insurance. Down Under to ensure a hassle-free and cost-effective experience.
In New Zealand, rental car insurance typically includes what’s known as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). CDW, also referred to as Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) when theft protection is included, is automatically included when you rent a car online. Importantly, it won’t be offered at the rental desk. CDW covers damages to the rental vehicle, but there’s a catch: it comes with a high excess fee.
To mitigate the high excess fee associated with CDW, rental companies offer Excess Waivers. These waivers are sold at the rental counter, and they aim to reduce your standard excess to AU$0.00. However, they come at a price.
Pro Tip: Opting for CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance can be a cost-effective alternative. It’s 50% cheaper than rental company excess waivers and offers broader coverage, including tires, windscreens, and key loss.
We’ve built a global business around saving customers more than 70% versus equivalent coverage at the rental desk. We aim to pay claims within 5 business days, so you can save your money for boogie board down sand dunes at 90-Mile Beach or visit a volcanic island.
Rental Company | Mandatory Insurance in Australia – Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) + Theft Protection (TP) | Avg. Super Collision Damage Waiver Cost at Counter* | Avg. Insurance Deductible at Counter* | Avg. Cost for Zero-Excess Insurance with CarInsuRent | Cost of Deductible with Zero-Excess from CarInsuRent |
Avis | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 36.47 | NZ$ 4,025 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Budget | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 36.47 | NZ$ 4,025 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Dollar | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 45.00 | NZ$ 5,900 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Enterprise | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 35.65 | NZ$ 3,391 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Europcar | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 31.01 | NZ$ 2,889 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Hertz | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 46.00 | up to the full value of the vehicle | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
National | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 35.65 | NZ$ 5,000 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Sixt | AUD$ 31.35 per day | NZ$ 45.00 | NZ$ 5,000 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
Thrifty | Included at the rental price | NZ$ 33.00 | NZ$ 6,900 | US$ 6.49 per day or US$ 94.90 for annual coverage | $0 USD |
*Averages are based on Super Collision Damage Waiver costs for a 7-day rental of a standard car class (July 1st – July 7th). The Australian car rental insurance rates listed here are subject to change by the rental companies without notice. For the most up-to-date pricing information, we encourage you to request a free online quote prior to booking.
CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance starts from as low as US$6.49 per day to US$94.90 for an annual car hire excess insurance policy.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance NZ
Get StartedIn New Zealand, even if you’re not at fault in a collision with another vehicle, rental companies often deduct your full excess. They might not refund this money until the end of a lengthy investigation, which can take several months. To avoid being out of pocket, CarInsuRent protection steps in on your behalf, ensuring you’re treated fairly.
Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver during your journey, covering costs like towing, fuel, and key lockout. Rental companies offer Roadside Assistance Cover (RAC) at the rental counter, but it comes at a price.
CarInsuRent’s car hire excess protection for rental cars offers the same coverage at a 70% lower cost!
While on the road, your safety is paramount. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) compensates you for personal injuries, including those of your passengers. Rental companies offer PAI at the counter, typically priced between NZ$14.69 and NZ$22.04.
However, it’s worth checking if your credit card or other travel insurance policies already provide similar coverage, potentially saving you from purchasing duplicate insurance.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance NZ
Get StartedHere are some key benefits of having CarIsnuRent car rental insurance for New Zealand:
Remember that when choosing CarInsuRent protection, you should already have the most basic collision damage waiver (CDW, LDW, or similar) offered by the car rental company or your booking agent, which is usually included with the rental vehicle in New Zealand.
Mr .Viktor, a customer from Belgium, rented a Volvo XC40 for 4 days at Charles de Gaulle airport. Despite declining the rental company’s insurance coverage due to its high cost, Viktor decided to purchase standalone car hire excess insurance from CarInsuRent after reading about its benefits.
While driving in Beauvais late at night to his hotel, he approached a narrow street. The street was bounded by stone wall on the right hand side. Being a little bit tired, he focused his attention on the vehicle coming in front, coming too close to the wall. Viktor scratched the doors and rear fender of the rental car because of the collision.
Unfortunately, Sixt charged Mr. Viktor EUR 1,760 + VAT for the damage.
However, Viktor had purchased car hire excess insurance, which covered the excess amount he would have to pay in such situations. As a result, he was able to file a claim with CarInsuRent, and we reimbursed him for the repair costs incurred by the rental company. This saved Viktor thousands of Euros, as he only had to pay US$ 38.06 for the car hire excess coverage instead of the full repair bill.
What to Do in Case of an Accident or Damage – If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, there are certain steps you should follow to file a claim with the rental car insurance company. First, exchange personal information with the other driver, including name, address, license plate number, rental vehicle information, insurance company, and policy number, and document the accident with pictures and notes. If the other driver is at fault, you should get their contact and insurance information and call their insurance company directly to file a claim. If you are at fault or have non-collision damage, you can file a claim with the rental car insurance company. The process for filing a claim with the rental car insurance company may vary depending on the provider, but typically, you would need to provide details of the incident, including the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as any police report numbers, if applicable. Additionally, you may need to provide documentation of the damage, such as photographs or repair estimates.
Required Documentation for Filing a Claim
Tips for a Smooth Claims Process: Filing an insurance claim can be a complicated and stressful process. The following tips can help ensure a smoother claims process:
By following these tips, you can help ensure a smoother claims process, and increase the chances of receiving the maximum benefit that you are entitled to under your insurance policy.
If your rental company provides you with a new vehicle during your rental period, your CaInsuRent policy will also cover the new vehicle as long as it’s a like-for-like exchange. You don’t need to notify CarInsuRent of the vehicle change.
Renting a motorhome in New Zealand offers an incredible opportunity to embark on a memorable and immersive adventure. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and diverse outdoor activities, New Zealand is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. Renting a motorhome allows you to have the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace, creating an itinerary that suits your preferences. From the stunning fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps, a motorhome provides a comfortable and convenient base for experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand. With well-maintained roads, numerous holiday parks, and a welcoming camping culture, renting a motorhome in New Zealand opens up a world of possibilities for discovering hidden gems, enjoying outdoor activities, and connecting with nature. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the unique Kiwi way of life, renting a motorhome in New Zealand is an ideal choice for an unforgettable journey. If you plan to explore New Zealand with a rented motorhome, we encourage you to read our Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Hire Insurance and recognize the importance of motorhome rental insurance to safeguard your travel investment.
In conclusion, renting a car in New Zealand is an excellent way to explore this beautiful country. However, understanding car rental insurance options is crucial to protect yourself from unexpected expenses. CarInsuRent protection offers comprehensive coverage at a lower cost, ensuring you have peace of mind while enjoying your New Zealandian adventure. Remember to document your vehicle’s condition, say ‘no’ to duplicate coverage, and follow the necessary steps in case of an accident. Safe travels!
See How Much You Can Save on Your Rental Car Insurance NZ
Get StartedYes, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is typically mandatory when renting a car in New Zealand. CDW is a form of insurance that protects the renter from financial responsibility for damages to the rental vehicle in the event of a collision or accident. Rental car companies in New Zealand often require renters to purchase CDW as part of the rental agreement. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement to understand the specific requirements and coverage provided.
Yes. Insurance for a single day is available.
No. We provide a single journey plan. You are covered from the time you pick up the rental car up to the time you return it or on the last date written on your Certificate of Insurance, whichever comes first.
No. You should purchase a policy before starting your travel.
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