Can I reduce my damage liability for a rental car in New Zealand?
All vehicles rented come with a standard cover that limits the loss or damage liability payable by you in the event of loss or damage to the car to between $2,875-A$3,450 NZD, depending on the vehicle class. You can reduce or waive your damage liability for an extra daily fee.
Renters may obtain rental car insurance from a variety of other providers, however in the event of an accident or damage to the vehicle, they will still need to pay up to the value of their elected damage liability, and recover the costs from their insurance company. Other insurance policies can vary heavily, and for peace of mind we encourage customers to purchase Damage Waiver with their rental vehicle.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Super Collision Damage Waiver (SUCDW)
Damage Waiver is offered at the time of rental for an additional daily charge. If the renter accepts our Damage Waiver, Enterprise waives or reduces the renter's responsibility for loss of, or damage to, the rental vehicle (including but not limited to towing, storage, loss of use, administrative fees and/or diminishment of value) subject to the terms and conditions of the rental agreement and applicable laws. Collision Damage Waiver reduces a renter’s liability to $391 NZD, depending on the vehicle, while Super Collision Damage Waiver reduces a renter’s liability to $0 (except for certain vehicle classes).
What Does Damage Waiver Cost?
The cost of Damage Waiver varies by vehicle type, the age of the driver and level of cover chosen. The daily cost is between $19 and $29 per day.
Windscreen, Headlights and Tyre Coverage (WHT)
Windscreen, Headlights and Tyre coverage is available if you choose not to purchase Damage Waiver for an additional daily charge of $4 per day, depending on the vehicle class. WHT covers any damage to the windscreen, headlights and tyres of the vehicle, and reduces the liability for any such damage to $0.
Compulsory Third Party Insurance (CTP)
In New Zealand there is no need for third party compulsory insurance (CTP) as there is a form of insurance managed by the Accident Compensation Corporation (AA) which covers injuries caused by car accidents via a fund by levy that is paid as part of the motor vehicle registration fees. This scheme provides no fault cover, meaning that any person injured as a result of an accident is covered. This cover does not include property or damage to other vehicles. There is no fixed coverage limit per policy.