2 Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown, Fox Glacier, Tekapo, and back to Christchurch
I suggest everyone think twice before considering Bluekey car rental at Auckland Airport. Here’s my experience: When picking up the car, the Chinese staff required a deposit of 2500 NZD. If there was any minor scratch when returning the car, the deposit would not be refunded because I did not purchase additional insurance. 2500 NZD (12500 RMB) seemed exorbitant, so I bought their insurance, which cost nearly 1000 RMB for 8 days. However, I later found out that my rental package already included insurance for minor scratches!
Secondly, I feel this was more than a simple misunderstanding. When returning the car, an overseas staff member inspected it and said everything was fine. Then a Chinese staff member came out, looked around, and claimed there were a few scratches on the roof that required a compensation of 1000 NZD. After negotiation, they reduced it to 600 NZD (3000 RMB). I need to point out a few things about these scratches: 1. They were so minor that they didn't show up in the photos I took for evidence. 2. The additional insurance I bought didn’t cover the roof. 3. Charging 3000 RMB for scratches that don't show up in photos—isn't this a scam? 4. In hindsight, this company is quite sly. The car originally had more than 20 scratches (which they don’t repair), and you can't ensure you document all damages during pickup, but you'll be troubled at the return. In comparison, when I went back to Auckland, I rented a car from Discount. No deposit, no insurance, and everything was prepared in the car without any checks. The experience was vastly different. I have retained videos, photos, contracts, and other evidence of my experience with Bluekey. Feel free to consult if needed.