Most car rental companies in New Zealand offer a basic level of insurance cover with every rental car, while also offering extra insurance excess reduction options for an additional daily fee. The insurance options offered by rental car companies in New Zealand all more-or-less follow the below format: No excess reduction: This option is always the most affordable option offered, however it also carries the most risk in that if you do have an accident, you will be liable to pay an increased excess amount. Some excess reduction: This option is typically priced in between the no excess reduction, and full excess reduction options. It should be considered as a balance between more affordable overall daily rates and reducing your overall risk. Full excess reduction: This option is typically the highest priced option, reduces your excess to zero and with some car rental companies (such as Snap), comes with additional bonuses too! This option gives full peace of mind for your trip. Ultimately the type of insurance you should choose really depends on your approach to risk, and your ability to afford to pay the excess in case anything goes wrong. At Snap we always recommend our customers take the highest car rental insurance cover possible to give you peace of mind on your trip. This is particularly important given when you are renting a car you are typically driving a vehicle you are unfamiliar with on roads you are also unfamiliar with, surrounded by people in the exact same position as you!