Avoid Star RV at all costs.

Our 32-day motorhome rental with Star RV in New Zealand turned into a series of problems. The vehicle was clearly not properly checked or maintained. We dealt with a fridge that didn’t work for nearly half the trip, a damaged rear door, a non-functioning airbag, and an expired gas bottle. For a company renting vehicles meant for long-distance travel and remote camping, this is unacceptable.

Because of these issues, we lost three full days of our holiday in repair shops instead of exploring the country. These unplanned detours caused extra fuel costs, cancellation fees for activities, and a lot of stress. Star RV cost us time, money, and a significant part of a trip we had planned for a long time.

The compensation process was just as disappointing. We contacted them more than a week before drop-off in Auckland, explained the issues, outlined our expectations, and asked for someone familiar with the case to be available on site. Despite this, no one at the branch had been informed, except for one employee, Vinay, who genuinely tried to help within his limited responsibilities.

When we returned the vehicle, the team suddenly scrambled to address everything they had ignored earlier. They delayed the process so long that they only presented us with a laughably low offer — a little over $500 instead of the roughly $900 we were owed for the lost days — when we were already at the airport and about to board our flight home. With all additional costs included, we estimate we are owed around $2,500.

There was no proper apology, no ownership, and no real customer service — just empty phrases and an obvious attempt to minimize their responsibility.

Based on our experience, Star RV seems more focused on pushing vehicles out quickly than on safety, maintenance, or customer care. We strongly advise future customers to stay far away. Many other rental providers in New Zealand take their responsibilities far more seriously.

Reviewed 7 months ago