Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions:
How costs are calculated
If I pick up my vehicle at 2.30pm on a Saturday and drop it off before 2.30pm on the following Saturday is this counted as a 7 day hire?
No, hires are calculated on a daily rate not a 24 hour basis. Therefore the first and last days are both counted when calculating the number of hire days, regardless of the time you pick up or drop off the vehicle. The above example would be an 8 day hire.
When do I have to pay the hire costs?
On receipt of your confirmation a deposit of NZ$400 is required to secure your booking. The balance of the hire cost must be paid at least 28 days prior to the pick up date. Full payment information will be provided with the booking confirmation.
Cancellation and Refunds
If I cancel my booking will my deposit be refunded?
No, the deposit will not be refunded. Refer to the Booking Conditions to see our cancellation policy. We recommend you take adequate Travel Insurance which may cover you for cancellation fees in certain circumstances.
Tyres and Windscreens
Is there cover for tyres and windscreens?
The repair and/or replacement of tyres is covered. Multiple replacement of windscreens is only covered if you reduce the Bond/Excess to NZ$250 by paying NZ$12.00 per day.
Minimum Hire Period
What is the minimum hire period?
A minimum of 7 days applies to all hires days except for all one way hires between the two United Vehicle Rentals Depots (Auckland and Christchurch) when a minimum of 14 days applies.
One Way Fee
Is there a one way hire fee between Auckland and Christchurch?
No, Econo Campers does not charge a one way fee but please note the 14 day minimum hire period for one way hires.
Road Users Charge
Does Econo Campers charge for the Road Users Charge (Diesel Tax) on the 2 Berth Motorhome?
No, this is included in your hire fee.
Short Hire Refunds
Is there a refund if I shorten my hire while on holiday?
No, there is no refund if you return your vehicle earlier than the reserved period.
Change of drop off location
Can I change my drop off location at any time?
No, once travel has commenced a change of drop off location is always subject to confirmation by Econo Campers and may incur the full cost of repositioning the vehicle to the original drop off location reserved.
Driver’s Licence
Do I need a special licence to drive an Econo Campers vehicle?
No. As long as you are 21 years of age or older and hold a current valid driver's licence, your country of origin licence is acceptable. However, non-English licence holders must either carry an accurate English translation of their licence or an International Driving Permit while driving.
A normal car licence is all that is required to drive any Econo Campers vehicle. No heavy vehicle, or other special category, licence is required. No maximum age limit applies providing an appropriate valid licence is held by the hirer.
The English translation referred to must be issued by one of the following authorities:
- The New Zealand Translation Service
- A diplomatic representative at a High Commission, Embassy or Consulate
- The authority that issued your overseas driver’s licence
Depots
Where are your depots located?
Econo Campers has depots in Auckland and Christchurch, both conveniently located near to the International and Domestic Airports.
Vehicle delivery
Can Econo Campers deliver a vehicle to my overnight accommodation?
No, it is necessary for you to come to our depot to collect your vehicle so we are able to complete the necessary documentation, and familiarise you with the operation of the campervan. Remember, free transfers are available from the Airport.
Automatic Transmission
Does Econo Campers have vehicles with automatic transmission?
No, all Econo Campers vehicles have manual transmission.
Minimum Hire Age
How old do I have to be to hire an Econo Campers vehicle?
The minimum age for hiring a vehicle is 21 years. There is no maximum age limit.
Extra Drivers
Is there an additional charge for extra drivers?
No, Econo Campers encourages you to register more than one person to share the driving for safety reasons.
Heating
Is there heating in the vehicle?
Yes, both models have 240 volt electric heaters. In addition, the 2 Berth Motorhome also has a gas heater. All vehicles have heating in the cab which operates when you are driving.
Equipment
Is equipment included in the vehicle cost?
Yes, every Econo Campers vehicle is fully equipped at no additional cost to the hirer. Refer to our Living Equipment page for a complete list of items included
LPG Refills
If the gas bottle runs out and I have to have it refilled, am I entitled to a refund?
No, the hirer is responsible for all LPG refills.
Maps and Holiday Park Directories
Do the vehicles have maps and Holiday Park directories?
Yes, all hires include a pack containing a complimentary New Zealand Road Atlas, Holiday Park directories and other tourist information.
Do I have to pre book Holiday Parks?
We recommend that you consider making advance bookings for the peak holiday periods over Christmas/New Year and the Easter period. Bookings may also be wise in some of the key tourist centres for the peak summer period from mid December to the end of January.
Ferry Bookings
Do I have to pre book the ferry service across Cook Strait?
It is advisable to pre book ferry services in advance to avoid any disappointment and inconvenience. During the peak summer season from November to March it is strongly recommended that you do so.
Breakdown Service
Do you have a breakdown service?
Yes, you can contact an Econo Campers staff member 24 hours a day on our freephone helpline 0800 759 919. Econo Campers has a comprehensive network of Service Agents throughout the country who can assist.
Pets
Can I bring my dog or cat with me?
No, we regret that animals are not permitted to travel in any Econo Campers vehicle.
Smoking
Can I smoke in the vehicle?
No, all Econo Campers vehicles are non smoking and a cleaning fee may be charged if smoke is detected in the vehicle when it is returned.
Transfers
Do you offer an Airport shuttle service?
Yes, Econo Campers operates a mini coach shuttle between Auckland and Christchurch Airports and its Depots.
Arrivals
Auckland and Christchurch
Complimentary transfers between the Airport and Depot are available to Econo Campers clients, on demand, by shuttle operated by United Vehicle Rentals. Call Freephone 0800 759 919 on arrival in Auckland, and Freephone 0800 359 010 on arrival in Christchurch and a vehicle will be despatched immediately to collect you.
Departures
Auckland and Christchurch
Complimentary transfers are available from the Depot to the Airport in both cities by United Vehicle Rentals shuttle and can be arranged by clients on termination of their hire.