FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age requirement for hiring a vehicle?
The minimum drivers age is 21 years and must have a full license with the correct class for the vehicle they wish to hire.
Do you require a bond to hire the vehicle?
Yes. We take either a signed credit card impression, $400 cash, or a current warranted and registered vehicle plus $50 (provided no finance is owing on the vehicle).
Is there a charge for additional drivers?
No. So long as relevant details are added to the rental agreement form on pick up. You may add as many drivers as you wish for no extra charge. We prefer to give our customers the option of sharing the driving.
Do you provide a pickup and drop-off service from the airport or local accommodation?
Yes. We can arrange pickup and drop-off to or from Palmerston North airport or local accommodation, so long as its within regular business hours. We would appreciate it if you gave us plenty of notice to prevent any delays in your travel plans.
Can I pay for the hire of the vehicle by credit card?
Yes. U-Drive Rentals accept both Visa and Mastercard. Due to high commission charges however, a 5% surcharge applies to American Express Cards. We no longer accept payment by cheque.
Do you offer after-hour car rental pickups and drop-offs?
Yes, subject to prior arrangement. For after-hour pickups, we require the rental agreement to be signed and prepaid in full at least 24 hours beforehand. U-Drive Rentals does not charge an additional administration fee for this.
Can we take our rental vehicle on the Inter-Island Ferry service?
Yes. Vehicles can be taken on the ferry but must be returned to our Palmerston North branch. Furniture trucks require ferry lashings so be sure to book well in advance to ensure we allot you with the right one.
Do you offer any tie downs or packing blankets for your rental trucks?
No. However, we do have hand trolleys available for no extra charge.
Do you offer car seats?
No. Car seats will have to be provided by the hirer.
What is the procedure for extending the rental period?
Subject to vehicle availability, you can call us on (06) 355-3312 to arrange an extension.
What type of mechanical breakdown assistance is provided?
U-Drive phones switch to an after-hours number for emergency breakdowns. If there is no answer, leave a contact name and phone number. AA Roadside assistance is available between 7am – 9pm.
Does U-Drive offer diesel vehicles?
All rental cars have petrol engines, furniture trucks, diesel-powered engines.
Can I rent a vehicle on a Sunday?
We are closed on Sunday. However, as long as paperwork is complete and payment made prior, pick up arrangements can be made.
Can I return a vehicle after hours?
Yes. We have an after-hours drop off service. Please tell us if this applies to you and we can provide the necessary information.
Do you charge a cleaning fee if the vehicle is not returned clean?
Yes. A cleaning fee is applied if the vehicle is returned filthy and/or if rubbish is left behind.
Can I take U-Drive vehicles on the beach?
No. Our vehicles are not insured for driving or parking on any beaches whatsoever.
Is fuel included with my rental?
Each vehicle goes out on hire with a full tank and must be returned with a full tank. If the vehicle is not refuelled, we charge you for what you have used, plus a $20 refuelling fee.
If I pick-up a vehicle on a Tuesday at noon and return it on a Wednesday at 4.30pm, how many days will I be charged for?
For rental cars, we do a 3-day minimum hire, so you would have to pay the full amount regardless of early returns. For furniture trucks, this will be counted as 2 days.
What happens if I need to cancel the booking or return my rental vehicle early?
Unfortunately, there are no refunds for early vehicle returns. If you wish to cancel your booking we require at least 48 hours notice. If you do not advise us 48 hours prior to your booking a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
What do I need to bring to the office when I collect a vehicle?
The driver and any additional drivers of the vehicle will need to provide their current full Drivers Licence relevant to the class of vehicle being hired. You will also need to provide a form of BOND.
This is usually in the form of:
- A credit card (which will need to be signed for by the holder)
- $400 cash, or
- A vehicle with current Registration and WOF plus $50 cash. The vehicle must also be no older than 1999 and have no finance owing
What happens if I have an accident, break down or need assistance?
Please contact us straight away, so we can advise how we can assist you. We are available by phone in an emergency 24 hours a day.
What is the difference between daily, weekly and weekend rates?
Daily rates are based on 24 hours. With trucks we usually have an 8.30am or 4.30pm pick up time. Unlimited mileage rates are available for some vehicle types. There is a minimum 3-day rental for these.
What is your insurance excess?
Our insurance excess is $2000 plus GST, however, for our RENTAL CARS, this is reducible to $750 plus GST for an additional $10 a day plus GST.
Can I use my overseas Drivers Licence?
Yes. However if your Driver’s Licence is not printed in English, you will need an International Drivers License. You must be over 21 years of age to hire a rental car in New Zealand.
Any Further Questions?
Please feel free to contact us if you have any more questions or enquiries about our rental service and will do our best to answer them.