new zealand rental car chains and racks

During the winter months snow chains are often required to drive safely on New Zealand ski access roads. Please ensure that you request snow chains and ski racks for your NZ ski holiday. The cost of Snow Chains is $25 for the length of your hire. Similarly, the cost of Ski and Snowboard racks is $25 for the length of your hire.

other rental car accessories

• AA Roadside Assistance
• Child Seat hire
• GPS Navigation hire
• Snow Chains and Ski Racks

fitting snow chains

Before you begin fitting the chains please ensure they are free from any twists or tangles and that all the connections are open or undone.

• Step 1: Hold the chains in a horseshoe shape with the opening away from you.
• Step 2: Place the chains on the ground and pass one end of the hoop around the back of the tyre.
• Step 3: Raise both ends of the hoop and fasten the fitting at the top so the hoop is at the back of the tyre (make sure you do not let go at this point, as the hoop could fall behind the tyre).
• Step 4: Wrap the chains around the tyre and fasten the hook at the front.
• Step 5: Adjust the chains so they are sitting in place on the tyre.
• Step 6: Pass the long length of chain with the rubber strainer and hook through the tensioners and hook onto a secure part of the chain.

removing snow chains

When removing the chains un-hook all fastenings and lay the chains flat on the ground (you may need to turn the steering wheel to access the fastening at the back of the wheel). Carefully move the car off the chains and pick them up. By making a double hoop and placing them neatly in the carry case it will make it easier for next time they need to be fitted.

Please Note
Ensure chains are fitted firmly to the tyre to avoid damage to the chains and the vehicle. Don not exceed 15km per hour while chains are fitted to your vehicle.

ski and snowboard racks

During the winter months Apex provides ski and/or snowboard rack for $25 per hire. Please ensure that you tick the appropriate check boxes when you make your reservation.

new zealand road code quiz

Driving conditions can change suddenly whilst touring around New Zealand, especially in the winter months. Are you aware of the road code rules relating to "driving to the conditions"?

Please click the link to take our short "driving to the conditions" road code quiz.