Frequently Asked Questions

About Rental Cars & Bikes in Rarotonga

Polynesian Rental Cars and Bikes is locally owned and operated, and the trusted choice for quality vehicles and friendly service. Find the answers to common questions about rental car and bike hire in Rarotonga, or contact the friendly team at Polynesian Rentals today.

What is included in the rate?

Unlimited kilometres, value added tax 15.0%, insurance (excess applies).

Are additional drivers allowed?

Yes, the first driver is free, each additional driver will cost $1 per day per driver.

What insurance is included?

For cars 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 $3500. You have the option of paying an additional $25.00 for each day of the rental hire to reduce your excess to $0. For scooters the Third Party Liability and Collision damage Waiver (damage to the rental car) is an excess of $500 and this cannot be reduced.

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.

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?

No we don’t and we recommend you bring your own or hire one from Kuki Peeps, a local business specializing in child equipment. They will deliver the car seat to us prior to your arrival.

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.

What payment methods can I use to confirm my online quote/booking?

We accept Visa and MasterCard credit and debit cards. These cards must show the customer's name, signature and card number, with their applicable logo. Prepaid and Reloadable debit cards and Gift cards, as well as Travel cards and EFTPOS cards are not accepted.

Credit Card Pre-authorisations (block)

We process a pre-authorisation (block) for credit cards for your estimated charges at the start of the rental and this may include an additional pre authorisation of up to $2500.00 NZD. This means funds to this value will not be available for your use on your card.  Final charges will be processed after completion of the rental and if applicable, the unused portion of the pre-authorisation will be released by Polynesian Rental Ltd & Polynesian Bike Hire Ltd. Please note the pre-authorisation may take up to 7-10 business days to be released by your bank. Polynesian Rental Ltd & Polynesian Bike Hire Ltd will not be held responsible for any overdraft fees based on this policy.

When do I pay for the car?

To take advantage of discounts, customers are required to prepay before the required time to secure booking.

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 international flights. Here are full contact details for our Rarotonga Airport Car and Bike Hire Office

Where do I pick up the car, once booked?

If you are picking up at the Rarotonga International Airport, the Polynesian Rental Cars desk is located in the arrivals area, opposite arrivals exit. Here are all the addresses and locations of our vehicle rental offices around Rarotonga.

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 credit card.

How old do I have to be to hire a car or a scooter?

The minimum age is 18 years.

Do I need to get a Cook Islands Driver’s Licence?

Visitors can drive in the Cook Islands on their overseas licence for up to six months, unless the licence expires, is revoked, suspended or disqualified in that time. A person will be allowed to drive only the class of motor vehicle they are entitled to drive in their home country. Visitors whose licence is written in a language other than English will need an accurate translation.

How do I get a scooter licence?

If you don’t hold a current motor cycle license you will need to sit a Theory and Practical test at the Police Station.

I have a confirmed booking, but COVID-19 restrictions means I can no longer travel as originally planned. What can I do?

If you have a booking that was due to be picked up or a confirmed booking for later on in the year, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. As you will be aware we have a Covid19 Travel Guarantee Policy that means you’ll be eligible for a full refund on your hire and we’ll waive all cancellation or amendment fees. If you’re keen to take a much-deserved break and want to postpone your travel, we can help with that too by keeping a credit on file, whatever’s easier for you!

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch with us — we're a friendly bunch!

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