FAQ – Blue Dot Rentals | Car Hire NZ | Auckland, Christchurch & Queenstown
General Information
What are your hours of operation?
We are open 7 am to 5 pm, 7 days a week, making it easy to pick up or drop off vehicles at a time that suits you. After-hours pickups and returns are also available upon prior arrangement — just let us know in advance.
How can I book a vehicle?
You can book in three easy ways:
- Online — directly through our website
- By phone — call any of our regional numbers
- Facebook Marketplace — find us listed there too
We'll guide you through the quick and simple process.
Do I need to pay a bond or deposit?
Yes, a refundable bond is required when renting a vehicle. The amount depends on the vehicle type, your payment method, and your driver's licence:
| Situation | Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard (credit card, NZ licence) | $250 |
| No credit card or non-NZ licence | $500 |
| Driver under 25 years old | $1,500 (higher insurance risk) |
I don't have a credit card. Can I still rent a vehicle?
Yes! Please note that renting without a credit card increases the bond to $500. Contact us before booking to confirm your situation.
Pricing & Costs
Are your rates all-inclusive?
Our daily rates cover the standard vehicle rental charge. Additional costs may include:
- Insurance (basic cover is included; comprehensive upgrade is optional)
- Optional accessories (child seats, strollers, etc.)
- One-way drop-off fees (if applicable)
Contact us for a full breakdown specific to your booking.
Does the price include unlimited kilometres?
Most of our rentals come with unlimited kilometres. Ask us when you enquire, as specific vehicles may vary.
Does the rental price include fuel?
Fuel is not included. Vehicles must be returned with the same fuel level as at pickup. If the vehicle is returned with less fuel, a refuelling charge will apply.
Do you charge for multiple drivers?
There is no additional charge for adding an extra driver to your rental agreement. All drivers must hold a full and valid licence and meet our minimum age requirements.
Do you offer discounts for long-term rentals?
Yes! We have special rates for long-term hires. The longer you rent, the better the deal. Get in touch via phone, WeChat, WhatsApp, or online chat to find out more.
How do discounted bookings work?
We sometimes offer discounted rental rates based on vehicle availability and demand. Discounts are typically arranged when you contact us directly by phone, WeChat, WhatsApp, or online chat.
What the discount applies to: The discount applies only to the base rental price — it does not apply to insurance options, child seats, or any other add-ons.
Why the website shows a higher price: Our booking system cannot display custom discounts. The website always shows the standard rate. Your discounted rate is manually applied by our team on pickup day — your discounted quote is never lost.
How to complete your booking after receiving a discount:
- Select your vehicle and all required extras on the website
- Complete the booking at the standard (higher) website price
- Pay the 10% deposit — this is calculated on the website price, not the discounted price
- On pickup day, pay the remaining balance based on your discounted total, plus the refundable bond
| Standard Price | After $300 Discount | |
|---|---|---|
| Rental (10 days) | $1,980 | $1,680 |
| Platinum Insurance | $330 | $330 |
| Child Seat | $30 | $30 |
| Total | $2,340 | $2,040 |
| 10% Deposit (at booking) | $234 + fee | same $234 |
| Balance on pickup | — | $1,806 |
| Refundable Bond | $250 | $250 |
Keep your chat or message confirmation for reference. If you have any questions, contact us before booking.
Pickup, Drop-off & Travel
Can I pick up or return a vehicle after hours?
Yes, after-hours pickups and returns are available upon prior arrangement. Please contact us at least 24 hours in advance to organise this.
Can I return the vehicle at a different location?
Yes, we offer flexible one-way drop-off options. Additional fees may apply depending on the drop-off location and the rental duration. Contact us before booking to confirm availability and costs.
Can I take the vehicle between the North and South Islands?
Yes, our vehicles are permitted to travel inter-island. However, you must inform us beforehand so we can process the required ferry approvals. Do not board the ferry without notifying us first.
Do you provide airport pickup and drop-off?
Yes! We offer affordable pickup and drop-off services to and from Auckland Airport. Book in advance to secure availability. Contact us for pricing and scheduling.
Insurance & Policies
What is the insurance excess for your rentals?
The excess amount varies based on the vehicle type and the insurance plan selected. We offer multiple cover tiers — upgrading to a higher plan reduces your excess significantly. Contact us for specific figures.
Is it mandatory to purchase insurance?
Basic cover is included with all rentals. We strongly recommend upgrading to comprehensive insurance for greater peace of mind and a lower excess in the event of an incident.
What happens if I return the vehicle late?
Late returns may incur additional charges at the standard daily rate. If you need to extend your rental, please let us know as early as possible — we'll do our best to accommodate you, subject to availability.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
Cancellations are accepted, but fees may apply depending on how close to the pickup date you cancel. Please review our cancellation policy at booking, or contact us to discuss your situation — we aim to be as flexible as possible.
Breakdowns & Emergencies
What happens if the vehicle breaks down?
We do not include 24/7 roadside assistance as a standard feature. However, you can purchase roadside assistance from us at the time of booking — we recommend this for peace of mind, especially on longer trips or in remote areas.
What should I do if I have an accident?
Your safety and the safety of others is the priority. If you are involved in an accident:
- Ensure everyone is safe and move to a safe area if possible
- Call 111 (emergency services) if there are injuries or serious damage
- Contact us immediately so we can guide you through the next steps
- Do not admit fault or make any statements to other parties
- Document the scene with photos if it is safe to do so
Requirements & Eligibility
How old do I need to be to rent a vehicle?
You must be at least 25 years old and hold a full, valid driver's licence to rent with Blue Dot Rentals.
What licence is required to rent a vehicle?
A full and valid driver's licence is required. Please note:
- New Zealand licence holders: Your licence must be a full licence — restricted and learner licences are not accepted.
- International visitors: A valid passport is required in addition to your driver's licence.
- Non-English licences: If your driver's licence is not in English, you must carry a certified English translation alongside your original licence at all times during the rental.
What documents do I need to bring on pickup day?
Please bring the following:
- Your full driver's licence (NZ licences must be full — not restricted or learner)
- Passport — required for all international visitors
- A debit or credit card in the name of the person renting the vehicle (required for bond payment)
- Certified English translation of your licence if it is not in English (must be carried alongside the original licence)
- Proof of booking (email or message confirmation)
Additional Services
Do you provide vehicle accessories?
Yes! We offer add-ons to make your journey more comfortable, including:
- Child seats
- Booster seats
- Strollers / pushchairs
Reserve these when booking to ensure availability. A small additional fee applies.
Do you offer vehicle delivery or collection services?
Yes, we can deliver your rental vehicle to your preferred location, or collect it from you at the end of your hire. Additional fees may apply based on distance. Contact us to arrange this service.
Still have a question? We're here to help.
Reach out to your nearest Blue Dot Rentals team — we're available 7 am to 5 pm daily.
Email us at info@bluedotrentals.co.nz or chat with us on WhatsApp.