FAQs
What is included in the rate?
Unlimited kilometres, value added tax 12.5%, insurance (excess applies).
What currency is used?
The Cook Islands use New Zealand dollars. All rates quoted on our website and emails are quoted in New Zealand dollars.
Do you accept other currencies?
At this moment we only accept New Zealand dollars.
What payment methods can I use to confirm my online quote/booking?
You can pay with Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
How old do I have to be to hire a car?
The minimum age is 18 years.
Are additional drivers allowed?
Yes, the first driver is free, each additional driver will cost $1 per day per driver.
Do I need to get a Cook Islands Driver's Licence?
Yes, it is compulsory for everyone driving in Rarotonga to have a Cook Islands driver licence. Licences are issued for the classes that you hold on your current licence from home.
How long does the Cook Islands driver licence last?
A temporary licence is valid to 12pm the day after being issued.
The photo Cook Islands driver licence lasts for 12 months or until your next birthday, which is the earliest.
What is a temporary driver licence?
It’s a “temporary” driver licence intended to get you from our office to the Police Station to obtain the photo driver licence. The cost is $2 and is limited to only one issue per person.
How much does the licence cost?
The photo licence will cost you $20 from the Police Headquarters in Avarua.
I’m arriving at 3am and want to collect my car from the airport office, will the office be open at this time of the morning?
Our airport office opens for all scheduled Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue flights, even at 3am.
What insurance is included?
All compulsory insurance is included in your quote. This includes Third Party Liability and Collision damage Waiver (damage to the rental car with an excess of $2000). You have the option of reducing your excess to $500 by paying the excess reduction fee of $9 per rental day.
Where do I pick up the car, once booked?
If you are picking up at the Rarotonga International Airport, the Budget desk is located in the arrivals area, opposite arrivals exit. Addresses and locations for others offices can be found here.
What happens if the car breaks down?
In the unusual event of a breakdown, Breakdown assistance is available 7 days a week from 8am - 10pm. The number to call is printed on your key tag and on the car rental agreements form.
Where can I rent a car in Rarotonga?
You can rent your car at any of our 6 locations on Rarotonga. Click here for a list of car hire locations.
When do I pay for the car?
To take advantage of discounts, customers are required to prepay before the required time to secure booking.
If I book a car on the website, how will I know that you have received my details?
You will receive a confirmation email from our reservations department.
Do you hire baby seats?
We recommend you bring your own or hire one from Coco-Tots, a local business specialising in child equipment.
What do I need to bring with me when I collect the car?
You will need a copy of your confirmation booking which is emailed to you when you book your car online. You will also need a current driver's licence and a valid imprintable credit card.
