I've rented from various companies multiple times, but this was my first and very unpleasant experience with Europcar. First, the counter staff was quite indifferent. Second, despite having fully paid and purchased the super comprehensive insurance via Zuzuche, and having additional travel insurance that covers overseas self-driving, Europcar still tried to push their insurance on us. They initially refused to acknowledge our booking, and only after persistent negotiation did they relent. This already left a bad impression. Third, they pre-charged NZD 200 on my credit card for fuel, which they promised to refund if the car was returned with a full tank. This was acceptable. However, a couple of days later, they charged another NZD 200 without any explanation, causing confusion. Given our ongoing trip and a similar unresolved situation with a friend in Europe, our trust in Europcar was already low. We contacted Zuzuche's after-sales service, who responded quickly. After uploading a screenshot of the deduction, we received a refund roughly equivalent to NZD 200 the next day, albeit with some exchange rate loss. Fortunately, it was a minor loss. The main issue wasn't the money but the unauthorized, unjustified charges, which are unlawful. We appreciate Zuzuche's prompt and effective service, which helped resolve the first incorrect charge despite limited communication options abroad. However, the initial NZD 200 taken at the counter hasn't been refunded yet. We returned the car with a full tank and even confirmed with the Europcar counter, who assured us it would be refunded within 10 business days, pending the bank's process. We are still waiting, hoping there won’t be any further issues.

I wasn't informed that I could return the car by myself when no staff was present, which caused me to spend NZD 15 on a taxi to the airport.

Good

We arrived 35 minutes before scheduled pickup time. It was not busy at the counter. They still made us wait until the precise pickup time. Not a second sooner

Counter staff was very efficient but handling all the people waiting for their cars with no assistance was clearly not easy.