Excess Insurance Reduction Options
Understanding your insurance options helps you choose the right protection level for your journey. Here, we explain what "excess" means and how our reduction options can give you greater peace of mind while exploring the South Island.
Standard
Basic third-party and collision insurance included with your rental.
Price: Shown during booking
Excess: Shown during booking
Reduced Excess
Lower your excess liability for greater peace of mind.
Price: Shown during booking
Excess: Shown during booking
Zero Excess
Maximum protection with zero excess liability.
Price: Shown during booking
Excess: $0
You'll complete your booking securely on our reservations page.
What is "Excess"?
In New Zealand car rental, "excess" refers to the maximum amount you could be liable to pay if the rental vehicle is damaged or stolen. This is the portion of any claim that you're responsible for before insurance coverage applies.
An "excess reduction" option lowers this maximum liability amount. For example, if you choose a reduced excess option, you'll pay less out of pocket if an incident occurs (subject to terms and conditions). This gives you greater financial protection and peace of mind during your trip.
Think of it as choosing your level of financial risk: standard excess offers basic protection, while reduced or zero excess options provide additional security for a daily fee. Whether you're exploring Christchurch or touring the South Island, choosing the right protection level helps you enjoy your journey with confidence.
How It Works
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1
Choose your option during booking
When you book your vehicle, you'll see the available excess reduction options. Select the level of protection that suits your needs and budget.
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2
Bond or hold is placed on your card
Depending on your booking and the option you choose, a bond or hold will be placed on your credit card. This amount is reserved but not charged unless an incident occurs.
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3
Hold is released after your hire
If no incidents occur during your rental period, the hold is released after you return the vehicle. Most banks release holds within a few business days, though timing can vary by bank.
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4
If damage occurs, we assess and charge
If damage occurs, we assess the situation and charge only the applicable amount up to your chosen excess level (subject to terms and conditions). With zero excess, you pay nothing for covered incidents.
Compare the Options
Standard
Price per day: Shown during booking
Excess amount: Shown during booking
Typical bond/hold: Shown during booking
Windscreen/Tyres/Wheels: Excluded
Reduced Excess
Price per day: Shown during booking
Excess amount: Shown during booking
Typical bond/hold: Shown during booking
Windscreen/Tyres/Wheels: Excluded
Zero Excess
Price per day: Shown during booking
Excess amount: $0
Typical bond/hold: Shown during booking
Windscreen/Tyres/Wheels: ✓ Included
What's Covered vs Not Covered
Understanding what is and isn't covered helps you make informed decisions. Below are common examples—please refer to our Terms and Conditions for the complete list.
✓ Typically Covered
- • Accidental damage to the vehicle (subject to terms and conditions)
- • Theft (subject to terms and conditions)
- • Third-party damage (with standard insurance)
- • Windscreen, tyres, and cosmetic wheel damage (with Zero Excess option)
✗ Typically Not Covered
- • Reckless driving or driving under the influence
- • Driving on prohibited roads or areas
- • Negligence or misuse
- • Water immersion or incorrect fuel
- • Lost keys (unless covered by your option)
- • Interior damage from misuse
Important: This is a summary. For the complete list of inclusions and exclusions, please see our Terms and Conditions.
Recommended Option by Vehicle Type
Different vehicles suit different trips. Here's our guidance on choosing the right protection level for your vehicle and journey.
Tesla Model 3 Performance
Perfect for urban and scenic touring across the South Island. Many customers choose higher protection levels for peace of mind, especially when planning EV charging stops and longer journeys.
💡 Recommended: Reduced Excess or Zero Excess for confidence on longer trips.
Range Rover Sport / Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S / Range Rover V8
Premium vehicles that offer luxury and capability. Customers often choose higher protection levels to match the investment in their premium experience.
💡 Recommended: Zero Excess for maximum confidence and peace of mind.
Mercedes V220d Van
Ideal for family travel with plenty of space for luggage and children. Higher protection offers greater certainty when travelling with family.
💡 Recommended: Reduced Excess or Zero Excess for family peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Visit our FAQ page for additional information.
Is insurance included?
What does excess reduction change?
Is the bond/hold refunded?
Can I add excess reduction after booking?
Does it cover tyres and windscreen?
What happens if I have a single-vehicle incident?
Who decides fault?
What if I'm on a gravel road?
Does excess reduction cover interior damage?
What if I use the wrong fuel?
Choose Your Protection Level During Booking
When you book your vehicle, you'll see all available excess reduction options with current pricing. Select the level of protection that gives you the confidence to enjoy your South Island adventure.
Start BookingYou'll complete your booking securely on our reservations page.