Frequently Asked Questions – Apex Car Rentals FAQ’s

The following is a list of frequently asked questions related to car rental in New Zealand & Australia. All bookings made on this site are for Apex Car Rentals New Zealand or Apex Car Rentals Australia.

1. Reservations & Rates

arrowDo I need to pay a deposit on my reservation?

No. Apex Car Rentals does not charge a deposit at the time of reservation.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on the payment conditions and type of rental, your credit card may be charged the full amount at time of booking.

arrowCan I view, modify, or cancel an upcoming reservation?

To modify or cancel an upcoming reservation online, go to our View/Modify/Cancel page and enter the required details.

Alternatively, you can contact the Apex Reservations team for assistance.

CANCELLATION FEES : Apex reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee for the following conditions:

  • No Cancellation Fee - if cancelled more than 14 days prior to the rental start date
  • 20% Cancellation Fee(capped at $100) - if cancelled less than 14 days, but more than 24 hours prior to the rental start date
  • 50% Cancellation Fee(capped at $200) - if cancelled less than 24 hours prior to the rental start date or no show

arrowIs a credit card required when making a reservation?

Yes, when you book through this website you will need to enter either a valid Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Apex rentals must be secured using a valid Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card. If you do not have an accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card you will not be able to rent from Apex Car Rentals.

Apex Car Rentals reserves the right to refuse any card. If you are not sure if your credit/debit card is valid for payment, please contact Apex Reservations for assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: For security purposes, the owner of the Credit Card entered on the payment step when making a reservation must be present to collect the vehicle and is required to sign the Rental Agreement. If this is not possible, please contact the rental location to discuss options.

arrowWhen renting in New Zealand, can I take the rental car inter-island across Cook Strait?

Yes, you can take your rental car across Cook Strait using either the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry services. If you are planning to travel between the North Island & South Island, you can book your ferry tickets at the same time as you book your rental car. Apex New Zealand Car Rentals may cover the cost of the vehicle ferry ticket depending on the length of rental and the travel period.

arrowWhat information will I need to book a vehicle?

You’ll need to know:

  • The pick-up location, date, and time.
  • The return location, date and time.
  • The type of vehicle you want to hire.
  • Your personal contact details.
  • A valid credit card to be used for the rental.

arrowWhy do rates differ?

Rates may differ depending on the length of rental and vehicle you select.

arrowWhat happens if I return my car rental early?

If you return you vehicle earlier than expected then no refund applies.

arrowDoes Apex charge airport fees, port fees, or premium location fees?

Airport fees and/or port fees are often charged by car rental companies to recoup the cost of having offices at those locations. Apex does not charge airport fees or port fees for rentals in Australia or New Zealand.

arrowDoes Apex charge for additional drivers?

No. Apex does not charge for additional drivers. When you pick up the car at the start of the hire, you can add drivers to the rental agreement without incurring any additional charges.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Any additional drivers nominated must have a full driver licence and be present when the vehicle is collected.

arrowDo you offer one-way car rentals?

Yes, you can rent a car and drive one-way between most of our branch locations, subject to availability.

Apex does not charge one-way fees. There is no additional cost when you rent one way with Apex Car Rentals in New Zealand or Australia.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We do not allow vehicle movements out of Tasmania and into or out of Western Australia.

arrowDoes Apex charge booking fees or vehicle registration recovery fees?

No. Apex does not charge booking fees or vehicle registration recovery fees.

arrowDoes Apex charge extra for drivers aged between 21 and 25?

No. Unlike many companies, Apex Car Rentals does not impose a surcharge for drivers 21 to 25 years of age. Provided you are 21 years of age or older the same rates apply.

Standard Apex driver licence restrictions and Apex Rental Terms & Conditions apply.

arrowDo you charge extra for drivers 60 years of age or more?

No. Apex does not impose a surcharge for senior drivers.

arrowDoes Apex Car Rentals offer after-hours car rental pickups and drop-offs?

Yes, subject to prior arrangement and agreement. For after-hours pickups, we require full payment of the rental in advance and at least 24 hours notice prior to pick-up. Apex charges an additional fee for after-hours arrangements and airport parking charges may apply. Any car rental with an after-hours pick-up will be charged in full at the time of booking.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Some Apex locations do not accept after-hours pick-ups or returns. For more details, please contact Apex Reservations.

arrowDoes Apex guarantee that there will be no hidden car rental costs?

Yes. All our car rental rates include Goods & Services Tax (GST), standard motor vehicle insurance, and 24hr roadside assistance for mechanical breakdowns. The amount quoted at the time of booking is fully transparent and there are no hidden costs or charges.

arrowHow do toll roads work with Apex Car Rentals?

Toll Roads for New Zealand rentals:

In the event that Apex New Zealand receives an unpaid toll notice relating to the period the vehicle was on hire, Apex New Zealand will process a statutory declaration stating that the vehicle was on hire and provide name, address, and driver licence details of the hirer. The third party who issues the toll road charge will then forward the infringement notice to the hirer requesting payment. Apex charges the hirer a $10 administration fee for the time taken to process the statutory declaration and transfer of liability notice.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Apex does not pay any toll charges and it is the sole responsibility of the hirer to pay all toll charges incurred during the rental period.

Rental Tip: Save yourself money by paying the toll online the day before travelling on the toll road. This avoids costly administration fees that are levied for unpaid tolls. Please review the NZTA website for payment options.

Toll Roads for Australian rentals:

In Australia, Apex Car Rentals has partnered with Linkt to ensure toll payments are simple and easy to track. Shortly after you have travelled on a toll road, you will receive an email or text message from Linkt about a temporary Linkt Rental Account. This account is set up for you using the details you provided to Apex when booking and signing your rental agreement and will let you view your trips, payment details and statements.

All payments for tolls will be automatically made with the credit or debit card that you provided for your rental vehicle.

For more information about how toll payments are managed, visit our Australian Toll Payments page.

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2. Requirements for Renting

arrowDo I need a credit card to rent an Apex vehicle?

Yes, you must present a valid and accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

All rental agreements must be secured by a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

If you do not have an accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card you will not be able to rent from Apex.

Apex reserves the right to refuse any card. If you are not sure if your credit/debit card can be used for payment, please ask our Reservations Team for assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: For security purposes, the owner of the Credit Card entered on the payment step when making a booking must be present to collect the vehicle and is required to sign the Rental Agreement. If this is not possible, please contact the rental location to discuss options.

arrowWhat terms & conditions will apply to my rental?

All Apex car rentals use the applicable rental terms & conditions for the country where the hire takes place.

arrowHow old do you have to be to rent an Apex vehicle?

The minimum age for renting with Apex Car Rentals is 21 years old. However, the renter must have a full and valid driver licence and credit card, and adhere to the applicable Apex Rental Terms & Conditions.

arrowCan anyone other than myself drive the vehicle?

Yes, you can nominate additional drivers at no extra cost. Any additional drivers nominated must have a full driver licence and be present when the vehicle is collected.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Insurance cover is only valid for drivers named on the contract. Additional drivers will need to present their driver licence and any required translation documents at the time of rental.

arrowWhat are the driver licence requirements to hire an Apex vehicle?

You must have a current and valid full driver licence to rent a car from Apex Car Rentals. If you have an International Driving Permit, you must also carry your current and valid driver licence.

IMPORTANT NOTE: An International Driving Permit (issued in accordance with a United Nations Convention on Road Traffic) is acceptable only as a translation. If your overseas driver licence is not in English, you must also carry an accurate English translation or International Driving Permit issued by one of the following:

For rentals in New Zealand:

For rentals in Australia:

arrowCan I rent a car from Apex New Zealand if I have a provisional P2 (Green P) class driver licence issued in Australia?

Unfortunately, Australian issued P1 (Red P) and P2 (Green P) class licences are not accepted when renting in New Zealand.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You must hold a full and valid driver licence to hire a car from Apex Car Rentals in New Zealand.

arrowCan I hire a car from Apex Australia if I have a provisional licence?

Unfortunately, Australian issued P1 (Red P) and P2 (Green P) class licences are not accepted when renting in Australia.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You must hold a full and valid driver licence to hire a car from Apex Car Rentals in Australia.

arrowWhat types of UK Driving Licences can be used to rent Apex cars?

Apex accepts the new plastic photo ID Driving Licence, as well as the older paper licences. We do not accept the ‘Counterpart Driving Licence’ by itself.

You must present a full and valid driver licence when renting an Apex vehicle.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles that you have a license to drive in the UK.

arrowWhat happens if I only have an International Driving Permit?

You cannot drive in New Zealand or Australia if you only have an International Driving Permit. You must carry a current and valid overseas licence as well as the International Driving Permit if you wish to drive in New Zealand or Australia.

arrowWhat happens if my licence is suspended or I am disqualified from driving while renting an Apex car in New Zealand or Australia?

You must advise Apex immediately of any suspension or disqualification from driving. They will discuss the circumstances and determine the course of action.

arrowDoes Apex conduct Driver Safety questionnaires & Customer Driving Assessments prior to rental in New Zealand?

Yes, as a member of the Rental Vehicle Association of New Zealand and a proponent of the Drive Safe initiative, Apex has a responsibility to evaluate drivers skill levels. At times, a driving assessment may be necessary to ensure our customers understand the road rules, are prepared to handle our road conditions and have the confidence to drive in New Zealand. This aligns with our commitment to ensuring the safety of both overseas customers driving on New Zealand Roads and the resident road users.

Apex Customer Service Representatives will evaluate a drivers knowledge and ability by asking drivers to complete the Drive Safe questionnaire (compiled by Tourism Industry Aotearoa & Safer Journeys NZ), which provides a base assessment and understanding of the drivers ability. If concerns arise from the Drive Safe questionnaire, they will ask further questions relating to the drivers experience driving on the left side of the road, as well as general road rules and road signs. They may also request a driver complete the online AA Visiting Driver Training Programme.

If there is still doubt around the drivers ability, but not enough to cancel the hire, they may ask the customer to complete a practical driving assessment with one of our staff around local roads near the branch. At this point, the customer will be asked to sign the rental agreement and pay for the hire.

On completion of the driving assessment, if the Customer Service Representative determines that the driver is not fit to hire a vehicle, they will terminate the rental agreement and make a full refund (less any excess liability if the driver has an accident or causes damage to the vehicle).

If the driving assessment is satisfactory, the rental agreement may be modified and excess reduction can be applied and the hire commence as planned.

arrowDoes Apex Car Rentals accept digital driver licences when renting a car?

Yes, Apex accepts Digital Driver Licences issued in Australia and New Zealand (with correct endorsements) when renting a vehicle. All digital driver licences must be checked and validated at time of rental. A screenshot or photograph of the driver licence is not acceptable.

PLEASE NOTE: Your digital driver licence does not replace your physical driver licence. You should always carry your physical driver licence when travelling outside the state or territory of issue and when travelling overseas.

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3. Rental Locations & Vehicles

arrowCan I reserve a specific make, model, or colour of car?

Unfortunately due to the size of our vehicle fleet and the distances between rental locations it isn't possible to guarantee a specific make or model of car.

arrowAre there any restrictions on where I can drive while renting from Apex?

Apex Australia Rentals

Apex Australia vehicles may only be driven on a road that is properly formed and constructed as a sealed, metalled, or gravel road. Apex vehicles are not permitted:

  • In any area outside the defined Apex Australia Geographical Restrictions map.
  • To any island off the coast of Australia (i.e. Fraser Island or Magnetic Island), with the following exceptions:
    • Apex vehicles are permitted on Kangaroo Island (South Australia) & Bruny Island (Tasmania) under specific terms & conditions and approval from Apex Adelaide (for travel to Kangaroo Island) and Apex Tasmania (for travel to Bruny Island)
  • Out of Tasmania
  • Into or out of Western Australia
  • Anywhere in the Northern Territory
  • On beaches or through streams, dams, rivers or through floodwaters.

Please refer to the Apex Australia Geographical Restrictions map for full details.

Apex New Zealand Rentals

Apex New Zealand vehicles must not be operated off-road, on any beach (including Ninety Mile Beach and Te Paki streambed), or driven on farm paddocks. ALL vehicles (including 4WD vehicles) are prohibited from driving on ALL 4WD tracks.

Apex vehicles are not permitted to travel on the following roads:

  • Skippers Canyon Road
  • The road to Macetown
  • Matukituki Road beyond the Treble Cone access road turn off
  • Glenorchy-Paradise Road beyond Priory Road turn off

arrowWhere can I find the hours of operation for a specific Apex Car Rental location?

Refer to our websites for details regarding Apex rental locations.

arrowWhat if I am delayed picking up my Apex rental car?

Please contact Apex Central Reservations or the Apex rental location as soon as possible if you are going to be late to pick up your car.

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 500 660

arrowAre there additional charges for returning a car late?

Any unauthorised late return will attract a surcharge of $20 per hour (up to 4 hours) and $80 per day thereafter in addition to the daily rate. Please contact the Apex rental location if you wish to extend your rental.

arrowCan I smoke in an Apex rental vehicle?

No. Smoking is not permitted in an Apex vehicle. If the vehicle is returned smelling of cigarette / cigar smoke you will be liable for the full cost of cleaning.

arrowCan I take an Apex vehicle off-road?

Apex vehicles must only be driven on a road that is properly formed and constructed as a sealed, metalled, or gravel road. The following restrictions also apply

Apex Australia Rentals

Apex Australia vehicles may only be driven on a road that is properly formed and constructed as a sealed, metalled, or gravel road. Apex vehicles are not permitted:

  • In any area outside the defined Apex Australia Geographical Restrictions map.
  • To any island off the coast of Australia (i.e. Fraser Island or Magnetic Island), with the following exceptions:
    • Apex vehicles are permitted on Kangaroo Island (South Australia) & Bruny Island (Tasmania) under specific terms & conditions and approval from Apex Adelaide (for travel to Kangaroo Island) and Apex Tasmania (for travel to Bruny Island)
  • Out of Tasmania
  • Into or out of Western Australia
  • Anywhere in the Northern Territory
  • On beaches or through streams, dams, rivers or through floodwaters.

Please refer to the Apex Australia Geographical Restrictions map for full details.

Apex New Zealand Rentals

Apex New Zealand vehicles must not be operated off-road, on any beach (including Ninety Mile Beach and Te Paki streambed), or driven on farm paddocks. ALL vehicles (including 4WD vehicles) are prohibited from driving on ALL 4WD tracks.

Apex vehicles are not permitted to travel on the following roads:

  • Skippers Canyon Road
  • The road to Macetown
  • Matukituki Road beyond the Treble Cone access road turn off
  • Glenorchy-Paradise Road beyond Priory Road turn off

arrowCan I pick up my car at one location and return it at another?

Yes, we allow one-way rentals between locations, subject to availability. However, if you return an Apex vehicle to a different location than that specified on the rental contract, without prior consent, Apex reserves the right to charge an additional fee of up to $2000.

arrowWhat should I do if the car has a breakdown?

Apex Australia Rentals

Apex Australia vehicles are covered by 24 hour Roadside Assistance for any mechanical related breakdowns. Apex vehicles are covered by the RACQ in mainland Australia and by the RACT in Tasmania. In the event that you need roadside assistance, please call the appropriate provider noted below and quote the service number and your vehicles registration number:

Mainland Australia:

  • Phone RACQ: 1800 648 058
  • Service Number: 01033 19204

Tasmania

  • Phone RACT: 13 11 11
  • Service Number: 1036710

Please give them your car registration plate number and provide and directions to help them locate you. If the above roadside assistance service providers are unable to assist you, please contact us on 1800 273 922.

Mechanical breakdowns covered by the AA Roadside Assistance service include the following:

  • Engine faults.
  • Electrical faults.
  • Cooling system.
  • Vehicle recovery.

IMPORTANT NOTE: For non-mechanical (driver error) call outs, the renter is responsible for all applicable fees and replacement parts charged to Apex by the roadside assistance service provider. Apex will charge any fees & costs related to non-mechanical roadside call outs to the renter. We recommend you take our Roadside Assistance Cover to avoid unexpected charges.

Non-mechanical breakdowns include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Running out of fuel
  • Refilling the vehicle with the incorrect fuel (i.e. putting diesel in instead of petrol)
  • Damage to wheels and/or tyres
  • Losing the keys or locking them inside the vehicle
  • Having a flat battery due to the ignition or lights being left on
  • A breakdown because of damage caused in an accident, including salvage

Apex recommends you take out additional Roadside Assistance Cover, which covers running out fuel, lost keys or keys locked in the car, flat battery due to lights left on, and wheel changing.

Apex New Zealand Rentals

All Apex vehicles are covered by the Automobile Association (AA) 24 hour roadside assistance service for any vehicle related breakdowns. In the event that you need roadside assistance, please call the AA free phone number 0800 22 27 39. Please give them your car registration plate number and provide and directions to help them locate you.

If the AA are unable to assist you, please contact us on 0800 500 660.

IMPORTANT NOTE: For non-mechanical (driver error) call outs, you will need to pay the applicable fee directly to the AA prior to their attendance.

Mechanical breakdowns covered by the AA Roadside Assistance service include the following:

  • Engine faults.
  • Electrical faults.
  • Cooling system.
  • Vehicle recovery.

For all Non-Mechanical breakdowns, the Automobile Association will charge you the relevant call out fees. Non-mechanical breakdowns include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Running out of fuel.
  • Refilling the vehicle with the incorrect fuel (i.e. putting diesel in instead of petrol).
  • Damage to wheels and/or tyres.
  • Losing the keys or locking them inside the vehicle.
  • Having a flat battery due to the ignition or lights being left on.
  • A breakdown as a result of damage caused in an accident, including salvage.

arrowWhat do I do if I have an accident?

In the unfortunate event of an accident, please do the following:

  1. Notify Apex as soon as possible using one of the following phone numbers:
    • Australia Free Phone – 1800 237 922
    • New Zealand Free Phone – 0800 500 660
    • Contact the local Apex branch using the numbers listed on your rental contract.
  2. Notify the police if the accident involves injury.
  3. If possible, prepare a written statement of the facts signed by all parties. If agreement cannot be reached, obtain a copy of the police report.
  4. Do not make any admission of liability, as this may prejudice your insurance coverage. Record full details of all parties and vehicles involved in the accident (drivers name, address, telephone number, mobile phone number, email address, vehicle registration number, vehicle make/model/year, insurance company, and apparent damage).
  5. Record full details of all parties and vehicles involved in the accident (drivers name, address, telephone number, mobile phone number, email address, vehicle registration number, vehicle make/model/year, insurance company, and apparent damage).

When you return the vehicle, you will need to allow at least 30 minutes to complete a full accident report form.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Unless you have purchased Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) cover, you will be required to pay all vehicle damage up to a maximum of the insurance excess. If you have a camera, please take photographs of all damaged vehicles and the accident site to verify the damage and circumstances to assist us with our claim.

arrowCan I pick-up or return a rental car outside normal business hours?

Yes, you can. Apex can arrange for an after-hours pick-up and/or return when your rental is outside our normal hours of operation. Instructions for after-hours pick-up and/or returns are included with your booking confirmation. This information is also available on the individual location pages on our website.

IMPORTANT NOTE: After-hours fees apply and the full amount of the rental is charged at the time of booking.

arrowHow do I get from the airport terminal to the Apex rental location?

Apex provides free airport shuttle transfers to our rental locations. Details of the collection points for airport transfers are included in the email confirmation.

arrowDoes Apex allow pets or animals in rental cars?

Apex allows the carriage of guide dogs for those customers who are visually or hearing impaired and assistance dogs for emotional or other forms of support. Any other pets or animals are not permitted in an Apex vehicle.

NOTE: As with all rentals, additional cleaning fees may be charged in the event the interior of the vehicle requires unusual or unexpected vacuuming, sanitation or shampooing.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH GUIDE DOGS AND ASSISTANCE DOGS

  • KNOW YOUR PET

    Is your dog prone to shedding? Does your dog drool? Bring mess-prevention helpers and cleaning supplies that align with your dog’s behaviour.

  • GROOM AHEAD OF YOUR TRIP

    Take your dog to a groomer a few days before your trip. A freshly washed and cut coat sheds less, and trimmed nails are less prone to leave scratches.

  • CHOOSE A CAR WITH THE RIGHT UPHOLSTERY

    When you arrive to pick up your rental car, ask for a car with a cloth interior. Although cloth will attract more hair than leather, it’s also easier to vacuum at the end of your trip.

  • BRING A SEAT COVER

    Before you let your dog jump inside the rental car, put down a seat cover. Simply bring a sturdy blanket from home or, if your budget allows, buy a dog seat cover from a pet supply store.

  • CONFINE THE DOG TO ONE AREA

    You’ll save yourself cleaning time if you reduce your dog’s roaming space. Tell your dog to stay in one area, such as the SUV cargo area or the back seat. Use a leash to keep your dog in that space if necessary.

  • KEEP YOUR DOG CLEAN AND DRY

    Avoid getting your dog wet, muddy, covered in leaves, or otherwise dirty.

  • LEAVE BAKING SODA IN THE CAR

    Dog smells can be just as difficult to control as hair. Keep a slightly open box of baking soda, a natural odour absorber, somewhere in the car for the duration of your rental. Make sure your dog can’t reach it and get curious about what’s inside.

  • DE-HAIR THE CAR REGULARLY

    Once per day, do a full sweep of the car with a lint roller or dryer sheet to collect any hair your dog has left in the car.

  • DON’T LEAVE YOUR DOG UNATTENDED

    Please don’t leave your dog in the vehicle unattended, as the temperature and lack of ventilation can cause undue stress to the dog.

  • VACUUM THE INTERIOR BEFORE YOU RETURN THE CAR

    On the last day of your rental, please give the interior of the vehicle a final and thorough clean. Vacuum all areas of the car your dog rode in, especially in the seat cracks and under the floor mats.

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4. Payment Options

arrowWhat Credit Cards does Apex accept?

Apex accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit cards  We also accept bank issued Visa or Mastercard Debit cards in place of a credit card.

arrowDo I need to present a credit card at the time of rental?

Yes, you must present a valid and accepted credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

Apex rental agreements must be secured using a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

If you do not have an accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card you will not be able to rent from Apex.

Apex reserves the right to refuse any card. If you are not sure if your credit/debit card is accepted for payment, please contact Apex Reservations for assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: For security purposes, the owner of the Credit Card entered on the payment step when making a booking must be present to collect the vehicle and is required to sign the Rental Agreement. If this is not possible, please contact the rental location to discuss options.

arrowCan I pay for my rental using cash?

Yes, you can pay for your car hire using cash at the start of the rental. However, Apex rental agreements must be secured using a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Payment by cash only applies to rentals commencing during normal office hours.

If you do not have an accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card you will not be able to rent from Apex.

arrowDoes Apex charge a card transaction fee on rentals?

No. Apex does not charge card transaction fees.

arrowWhat refuelling options do I have?

APEX NEW ZEALAND

When you rent a car with Apex in New Zealand there are three options for refuelling when you return the vehicle:

  1. At the end of your rental you can stop at a petrol station to refuel and return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel
  2. You can prepay for fuel at the start of your rental and return the car without refuelling
  3. We can refuel the vehicle for you, however please note you will be charged for each litre of fuel required plus a $20 refuelling surcharge.

APEX AUSTRALIA

When you rent a car with Apex in Australia there are two options for refuelling when you return the vehicle:

  1. At the end of your rental you can stop at a petrol station to refuel and return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel
  2. We can refuel the vehicle for you, however please note there will be a refuelling service charge per litre applied.

arrowCan I pay for the rental with a debit card? 

Yes, you can pay for the rental using a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card, an eftpos debit card, or a non-bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card. However, all rental agreements must be secured by a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card.

If you do not have an accepted credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, China Union Pay, or Union Pay International) or a bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card you will not be able to rent from Apex.

arrowDo I need to pay a Security Deposit?

If you want to rent from an Apex location that is more than 200km from your residence, you are not required to pay a security deposit.

If you want to rent from an Apex Australia location that is within 200km of your place of residence, then we need to complete some additional checks. You will also need to pay a bond to secure the rental.

IMPORTANT NOTE: After-hours collections are not available to the local hirers.

To rent from a local Apex branch you will need to provide us with the following:

  • Verification of your address - you will need to provide a utility bill form your place of residence(e.g. power, water, gas, landline phone or internet) dated within the last 30 days.
  • The address on the utility bill must be match the address noted on your driver license.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Mobile phone bills are not accepted forms of address verification.

We will call your mobile phone to verify the number is valid, so that we know we can contact you.

We will charge your credit card, or bank issued Mastercard or Visa debit card, an amount equivalent to the value of the excess liability noted on the rental agreement.

Apex does not accept cash payments as security holds on rentals. If you are unable to supply a valid credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard debit card, you will not be able to rent from Apex.

If you take out zero excess option, the bond amount will be $500.

We will refund the bond amount upon return of the undamaged vehicle.

For further information, please contact Apex Central Reservations

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 550 600

arrowCan you guarantee that there will be no hidden car rental costs?

Yes. All our car rental rates include Goods & Services Tax (GST), unlimited kilometres, and standard insurance with an excess/deductible. The rates for optional extras such as Child Safety Seats, Roadside Assistance Cover, and Wifi units are displayed during the booking process.

Please Note: One-way hires and additional drivers are free of charge.

arrowWhat happens if I get a speeding ticket, parking ticket, or forget to pay a toll road charge?

Apex New Zealand

Toll Road Notices:
In the event that Apex receives an unpaid toll notice relating to the period the vehicle was on hire, Apex will process a statutory declaration stating that the vehicle was on hire and provide name, address, and driver licence details of the hirer. The third party who issues the toll road charge will then forward the infringement notice to the hirer requesting payment. Apex charges the hirer a $10 administration fee for the time taken to process the statutory declaration and transfer of liability notice.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Apex New Zealand does not pay any toll charges and it is the sole responsibility of the hirer to pay all toll charges incurred during the rental period.

Rental Tip:
Save yourself money by paying the toll online the day before travelling on the toll road. This avoids costly administration fees that are levied for unpaid tolls. Review the NZTA website for toll road payment options.

Infringement Notices:
In the event that Apex receives an infringement notice for a speeding, parking, or other traffic infringement relating to the period the vehicle was on hire, Apex will process a statutory declaration stating that the vehicle was on hire and provide name, address, and driver licence details of the hirer. The authority who issues the infringement notice will then forward the infringement notice to the hirer requesting payment. Apex charges the hirer a $25 administration fee for the time taken to process the statutory declaration and transfer of liability notice.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Apex New Zealand does not pay any infringement notices and it is the sole responsibility of the hirer to pay all fines in relation to infringement notices issued during the rental period.

Please refer to the Apex Car Rentals Terms & Conditions for New Zealand

Apex Australia

Toll Road Notices:
The hirer must pay all tolls in respect of the vehicle during the rental period. All vehicles travelling on toll roads are required, by law, to pay fees to the relevant authority. Apex Car Rentals has partnered with Linkt to ensure toll payments are simple and easy to track. Shortly after you have travelled on a toll road, you will receive an email or text message from Linkt about a temporary Linkt Rental Account. This account is set up for you using the details you provided to Apex when booking and signing your rental agreement and will let you view your trips, payment details and statements.

All payments for tolls will be automatically made with the credit or debit card that you provided for your rental vehicle.

For more information about how toll payments are managed, visit our Australian Toll Payments page.

Infringement Notices:
In the event that Apex Australia receives an infringement notice for a speeding, parking, or other traffic infringement relating to the period the vehicle was on hire:

  • Apex Australia will notify and provide the Hirer details of the infringement notice as soon as is practical.
  • Apex Australia will provide the necessary information to the relevant authority for such notices to be directed to the Hirer.
  • An administration fee of A$40 will be charged to the Hirer for transfer of liability for the notice to the Hirer.

Please refer to the Apex Car Rentals Terms & Conditions for Australia

arrowWhen will I be charged for my rental?

For rentals commencing during normal office hours you will be charged at the start of the rental. You will need to present a valid and accepted credit card or bank issued Visa or Mastercard when collecting the vehicle.

For rentals commencing after normal office hours (After Hours Rental) you will be charged at the time of booking. Any additional costs or post rental charges related to the rental (e.g. unpaid tolls or traffic infringements, refuelling, excess liability etc.) will be charged separately.

arrowCan I redeem Entertainment Book vouchers or discount offers at Apex?

Yes, Entertainment Book vouchers and discounts can be used at Apex locations in New Zealand.

Make a normal reservation and present your Entertainment Book voucher at the time of rental to receive the discount on your car hire.

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5. Excess Reduction Cover

arrowHow can I update the Excess Reduction coverage I’ve selected on my reservation?

If you need to change the Excess Reduction Cover you selected on a reservation, you can either modify your reservation online or contact Apex Central Reservations and they will be happy to help you select the appropriate cover.

Modify a New Zealand Reservation

Modify a Australia Reservation

Contact Apex Central Reservations

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 550 600

arrowWhat motor vehicle insurance do I receive with Apex?

Apex rental vehicles are covered by standard motor vehicle insurance; however, an excess may be charged for any loss or damage incurred during the hire period, regardless of fault. Our standard excess liability varies depending on the age & size of the vehicle, but you can purchase Excess Reduction Cover, which reduces your excess liability.

arrowIn case of an accident, what excess am I liable for?

Your excess liability depends on the vehicle rented. Please review the excess amounts prior to booking. We strongly recommend you purchase Excess Reduction Cover, which reduces your excess liability.


IMPORTANT NOTE: Vehicle groups may have different excess levels and you may not be able to reduce the excess to zero. Operating the vehicle outside of the law invalidates any insurance coverage.

arrowHow can I reduce the excess?

You can purchase Excess Reduction Cover, which reduces your excess liability.

New Zealand

  • If you purchase Maximum Cover Excess Reduction, it reduces your excess liability to zero.
  • If you purchase Limited Cover Excess Reduction, it reduces your excess liability to $500.

Australia

  • If you purchase Maximum Cover Excess Reduction, it reduces your excess liability to zero.
  • If you purchase Limited Cover Excess Reduction, it reduces your excess liability to $750.

We strongly recommend all renters take out Maximum Excess Reduction Cover for peace of mind motoring.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Vehicle groups may have different excess levels and you may not be able to reduce the excess to zero.

arrowWhat is the cost of Excess Reduction Cover?

The cost of Excess Reduction Cover depends on the length of rental and the liability level you accept. Generally, the longer you rent the cheaper it gets.

When you take Excess Reduction Cover your excess liability reduces, depending on the level of cover selected.

We strongly recommend all renters take out Maximum Excess Reduction Cover for peace of mind motoring.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Vehicle groups may have different excess levels and you may not be able to reduce the excess to zero.

arrowWhat should I do if I have an accident in an Apex rental vehicle?

If you have an accident, immediately contact the rental location where you rented the vehicle. The location phone number is printed on your rental contract. Alternatively, you can contact Apex Central Reservations for further assistance.

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 550 600
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6. Options & Accessories

arrowDo Apex vehicles have GPS navigation systems?

Some makes and models have built-in GPS navigation systems, however we cannot guarantee availability.

arrowDoes Apex rent child safety seats?

Yes, you can book your child safety seats when booking online. If you have forgotten to book a child safety seat, please contact Apex Central Reservations to amend your booking.

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 500 660

arrowCan I rent a rear facing child safety seat from Apex?

Unfortunately we don't supply rear facing child safety seats. Our child seats are all forward facing and suitable for children weighing 8-18kg (or approx. 2 to 4 years old).

arrowCan I use a trailer hitch or tow bar with my Apex rental?

No. You cannot tow a trailer using an Apex rental vehicle.

arrowDo I need to check that the child safety seat is fitted properly?

Yes, it is the responsibility of the renter to check and ensure any child safety seats are fitted correctly prior to commencing the rental.

arrowCan I modify or install an Apex child safety seat so it is rear facing?

No, we will not authorise the modification or installation as a rear facing seat. Under no circumstances should customers attempt to reconfigure our forward facing child safety seats.

arrowCan I install my own child safety seat or capsule?

Yes, you may install your own child safety seat or capsule of any type in our vehicles at your own risk. Apex staff will not assist with the installation of non-Apex seats or capsules.

arrowWhat is Roadside Assistance Cover?

Roadside Assistance Cover provides an additional safety net and covers the call out fee if you; get a flat battery from leaving your lights on, run out of fuel, lock your keys in the vehicle, need a tyre changed, need the spare key sent to you or other similar situations.

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7. Apex Rental Terms & Conditions

arrowWhat are the Apex Car Rentals Terms and Conditions of Hire?

Apex Australia

Please refer to our full Apex Australia Rental Terms & Conditions for further details.

Apex New Zealand

Please refer to our full Apex New Zealand Rental Terms & Conditions for further details.

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8. Privacy Policy

arrowWhat method do you use to collect personal information?

We use cookies (small files stored by your browser) to anonymously identify your computer or device so we can deliver a better user experience. We do not collect personally identifiable information about you. Any personal information entered during the booking process, such as your name, address, phone number or email address is for fulfilling a transaction. We do not use or collect your precise geographic location.

arrowHow does Apex use the information it collects?

We will only collect personal information such as your name, address, phone number or email address for fulfilling a transaction. We do not use or collect your precise geographic location.

arrowDoes Apex disclose personal information to any third-parties?

Apex will not disclose any of your personally identifiable information except when we have your permission.

arrowHow does Apex protect my information?

As with all information, we will never disclose, rent, or sell your personal information. We strive to protect your personal information using the latest encryption technology and best practice storage methods. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee or warrant the security of any information you transmit to us via email or customer response forms. Never send us your credit card information via email. Please contact Apex Central Reservations by phone if you need to update payment information.

arrowWho can I contact about the Apex privacy policy?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Apex Customer Care

  • Australia Free Phone: 1800 273 922
  • New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 500 660