Terms & Conditions

Xpress Rentals Terms and Conditions

All rates are in NZD and include GST. Winterland Express Limited trading as Xpress Car Rentals / Xpress Rentals.

1. General

  • This agreement is between the hirer (as defined) and Winterland Express Limited (trading as Xpress Rentals).
  • Only authorized drivers listed in the agreement may drive the vehicle. Unauthorized drivers breach the agreement.
  • Authorized drivers must hold a valid full NZ or overseas driving license (translated into English) and carry it at all times (see: https://driverlicencetranslation.co.nz/ )
  • Hire charges are calculated per 24-hour day.

2. Complaints

  • Report any incorrect charges or issues (with evidence if possible) in writing within 20 working days. We’ll aim to resolve it quickly.

3. Hirer Responsibilities

A. Payments

  • Pay the agreed amount and any additional charges:
    • Fuel
    • Late return fees
    • Vehicle damage/repair costs and enforcement fees
    • Traffic fines (e.g., parking, speeding) + $30 NZD admin fee if unpaid on time
    • Toll charges
    • Towing costs to return the vehicle + recovery fees (including extended hire if applicable).

B. Card Details

  • Provide a credit card in the hirer’s name to start the agreement (we may refuse if mismatched).
  • A 10% deposit is required; the balance is due at pickup or via emailed invoice.
  • Cancellation fees apply: $50 (48+ hours before pickup), 50% (less than 48 hours), or full amount (24 hours/no-show).
  • Payment options: Credit/debit/cash (NZD only; 3% card fee, no American Express).

C. Responsible Driving

  • Do not drive on beaches, private driveways, or surfaces that may damage the vehicle.
  • Limit passengers/goods to the Load/RUC certificate.
  • Follow the Land Transport Rule 2004, Freedom Camping Act 2011, and other traffic laws (see links for details).
  • No racing, speed tests, rallies, or contests.
  • No driving under the influence (Sections 56, 57AA, 57A, 58 of the Act).
  • No subletting, hiring out, or carrying pets ($200 NZD cleaning fee applies).
  • Carry a copy of the agreement; show it if requested by police.
  • Stop driving and contact us if warning lights appear (or use roadside assistance if insured).
  • Maintain tires, oil, and radiator water levels.
  • Lock and park securely when not in use.

D. Returning the Vehicle

  • Return the vehicle on time to the agreed location.
  • Return it clean and with a full fuel tank (or pay $200 cleaning fee + fuel + $30 service fee).
  • No refunds for early returns; extensions depend on availability (charged at daily rate).
  • We’re not liable for lost property after return.

4. Accidents

  • Contact us immediately for any damage, breakdown, or repair needs.
  • Do not repair the vehicle without our approval (unless urgent).
  • Pay towing charges regardless of fault.

5. Cancelling the Agreement

  • $50 fee if cancelled 48+ hours before pickup.
  • 50% fee if cancelled within 48 hours.
  • Full amount if cancelled within 24 hours or no-show.
  • We may cancel for unsafe driving (no refund) if reported or deemed unsafe by us/police.

6. Xpress Rentals Responsibilities

  • Provide a roadworthy, safe vehicle with a valid Certificate of Fitness.
  • Ensure the vehicle is clean and tidy.

7. Privacy Policy

  • We collect your name, email, phone, driver’s license, credit card, and rental preferences.
  • We use this to process rentals, contact you, offer support, improve services, and comply with laws.
  • We share data with affiliates, payment processors, or authorities if required (but won’t sell it).
  • Opt-out of marketing by following instructions in communications.
  • We secure your data, but no online storage is 100% safe.

8. Mechanical Faults

  • Report issues immediately for assistance or roadside support.
  • No refund unless we’re notified and fail to resolve a 48+ hour travel delay.
  • We’re not liable for delays on weekends or public holidays.

9. Refunds

  • Refunds for breakdowns are limited to daily rental rates.
  • No coverage for alternative rentals, accommodation, or other costs unless specified.
  • Refunds take up to 25 business days after return.
  • Refunds are subject to third party processing charges plus a $30 admin fee.

10. Amendments

  • Request changes via email (admin@xpressrentals.co.nz), subject to availability.
  • Extensions require approval; unapproved extensions incur daily rates + $200 NZD late fee.
  • No one-way drop-offs (special requests considered by location).

11. Fuel

  • Return with the same fuel level; otherwise, pay fuel cost + $30 NZD service fee.

12. Infringement Offences

  • You’re liable for speeding, tolls, parking fines, etc., during the hire.
  • We’ll transfer liability to you (+$30 NZD admin fee) unless unable (then charge your card).
  • Challenge fines with authorities; no refund of our admin fee if successful.
  • Unpaid costs may be sent to debt collection (you’ll cover related fees).

13. Insurance

  • We do not rent cars to drivers under 21 or over 65.
  • Standard insurance (no extra insurance bought):
    • Standard motor vehicle insurance and 24/7 breakdown assistance included.
    • Excess fees: $3,000 (21-65 years old).
    • $3,000 is held as a security bond.
    • Not covered: Lost keys, flat tires, out-of-fuel, wrong fuel, flat battery, theft, or windshield damage.
  • Low excess (optional): $750 excess plan available for an additional $25 per day. $250 security bond applies. Does not cover lost keys, tyres, windscreen or wrong fuel.
  • Full insurance (optional): $45 per day including GST. Zero excess. Covers theft.
  • Lost keys, tyres, windscreen/glass damage and wrong fuel are not covered under any insurance option.
  • Call 0800 734 543 for assistance.

14. Your Liabilities

  • Cover loss/damage to the vehicle, accessories, third-party property, and collection costs.

15. Extra Fees

  • Cleaning: $200 NZD (dirty vehicle).
  • Smoking: $200 NZD.
  • Pet: $200 NZD.
  • Wrong fuel: $1,300 incl GST.
  • Towing: Your cost unless due to mechanical breakdown.

16. Other

  • We may amend terms, specs, or tariffs without notice and refuse rentals at our discretion.
  • We can terminate the agreement (no refund) if you breach terms, commit fraud, damage the vehicle, or lack safe driving skills (per our or police judgment).
  • You’ll pay towing/related costs to return the vehicle.