In New Zealand, Road User Charges (RUC) are a distance-based fee for vehicles that use diesel. Unlike petrol-powered vehicles (which pay fuel excise duty at the pump), diesel vehicles contribute to road maintenance and infrastructure through RUC. The charges are based on the distance travelled and the vehicle’s weight and type.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) sets the rates, which are periodically reviewed.

How Does Spaceships Rentals handle RUC for rentals?

First, currently the only vehicle category Road User Charges (RUC) apply to is our VW Campervan Category aka the Cosmo campervans. These are the only vehicles in the fleet that are powered by diesel.

At Spaceships Rentals, we simplify the process for you:

• No Upfront Payment

• RUC is not included in your initial booking cost. Instead, we calculate it after your trip based on the actual distance you travelled.

How We Calculate Your RUC

We track the odometer reading at the start and end of your rental. The difference gives the total kilometres driven. We apply the NZTA’s RUC rate for your vehicle type to determine the total charge.

The charge is added to your booking and processed via your payment method in our secure vault..

Why Calculate After the Trip?

RUC depends on actual distance travelled, which we can only confirm after you return the vehicle. This ensures you only pay for what you use, fair and transparent!