Understanding rental car payments, bonds, deposits, and extra charges helps make your trip smoother from the moment you book. This FAQ hub covers common questions about payment methods, cancellation policies, fees, toll roads, and bond releases with Mode Rentals. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer New Zealand road trip, knowing what to expect before pick-up can help avoid surprises later.
What payment methods do you accept?
Mode Rentals accepts common payment options to make booking simple and flexible. Customers can pay using major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard, which are widely used for both online bookings and in-branch payments. Debit cards may also be accepted for rental charges and bookings. For New Zealand customers, Account2Account is also offered. Payments are processed securely at the time of booking or collection, depending on your selection. For a smooth experience, ensure your chosen payment method is valid, has sufficient funds, and matches the name on the booking confirmation.
Do I need a credit card for my booking or bond?
A credit card is typically required for the bond when hiring a vehicle with Mode Rentals. However, you may also use a debit card. This provides security during the rental period and is standard practice across New Zealand car hire providers. The bond for your rental will be held against your credit/debit card. Always check your booking terms before arrival to confirm requirements, as these can vary depending on vehicle type and rental conditions.
Do I need to make a deposit for my rental car?
Mode Rentals may require a deposit at the time of booking, depending on how you book. For direct bookings, full payment is required upfront when completing your booking (bookings are refundable up to 24 hours prior with a $25 admin fee). Deposits may be held if you are booking through a third-party provider, and the specific terms will depend on the platform’s policies. Always review your booking confirmation for exact payment details, including any deposit amount and when the remaining balance is due.
Is there a charge if I need to cancel my rental car booking?
All Mode Rentals bookings made directly through the Mode site are refundable if you cancel your booking 24-hours prior to pick-up time. There will be a $25 admin charge made when cancelling your rental car booking. To avoid unexpected costs, review the cancellation terms before finalising your reservation. If plans change, contacting the team as early as possible gives you the best chance of reducing or avoiding fees.
What happens to my booking if my flight is cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled or delayed, Mode Rentals aims to work with you to adjust your booking where possible. Be sure to contact the Mode Rentals team as soon as you are aware of any disruption in your travel plans to discuss options. The Mode team will use a case-by-case basis to assist in your travel disruption and may be able to adjust hire dates, subject to availability. Different conditions do apply if your rental period has already commenced.
When do I make the payment for my rental car booking?
Payment when booking directly on the Mode Rentals site requires full payment at the time of booking. Any additional charges, such as extras or upgrades, are also finalised at this stage. On the other hand, your bond will be charged at the time of pick up based on your chosen liability.
When do I get my bond charge back in my account?
The bond is released after the vehicle is returned and inspected by the Mode Rentals team. Once confirmed that no additional charges apply, the hold on your credit/debit card is removed. Timing for the release depends on your bank or card provider, which can take several working days to appear back in your account. While Mode Rentals processes the release promptly, the exact timeframe sits with your financial provider. Returning the vehicle on time and in agreed condition helps ensure a smooth and timely bond release process.
Are there any late return fees or charges?
Returning your vehicle late may result in additional charges, as rental periods are based on agreed timeframes. Mode Rentals typically charges $20 extra per hour after the first hour for extended use beyond the original booking if no prior arrangements have been made. There is a one-hour grace period on rental vehicle returns before the late fees begin. If you anticipate being late, be sure to contact the team in advance to avoid any unnecessary fees.
Do I need to pay toll roads and traffic fines if they occur?
Any toll road charges, parking tickets, or traffic fines incurred during your rental period remain the responsibility of the driver. Mode Rentals may process these charges after the rental ends if notified by authorities. New Zealand has limited toll roads, but it’s important to pay them promptly online if you use one. You can add on pre-paid tolls to your rental car hire during the booking process. Following road rules and parking regulations helps avoid additional costs.
Are there any additional airport car hire fees?
As Mode Rentals locations across New Zealand operate off-site from the airport, there are no additional airport car hire fees associated with your rental hire. Mode Rentals also offers convenient airport pick-up options, often including a shuttle service to and from the terminal as a free inclusion in your rental vehicle hire. Mode’s airport location sits just outside the airport, often no more than a 5-7 minute shuttle away, making it a great option for rental car hire that sits close to your arrival destination and avoids additional airport charges.