About
The authoritative voice of the rental vehicle industry in New Zealand
Who We Are
The Rental Vehicle Association represents the interests of NZ operators who hire or lease passenger vehicles, EVs, hybrids, SUVs, minibusses, vans, coaches, trucks, campervans, or motorcycles.
Incorporated in 1939, the RVA has continually evolved to benefit its members, providing buying privileges, advocacy, communications, legal information and trade relationships. In December 2002 the RVA formed an alliance with NZ’s Bus & Coach Association, which for some time dealt with similar regulatory and policy issues. The two organisations maintained their identity and governance while sharing staff and resources until 31 March 2023, when the Rental Vehicle Association became completely independent.
To ensure the sustainability of our industry we work closely with our members, Waka Kotahi NZTA, Tourism Industry Aotearoa, Tourism New Zealand, the Ministry of Transport, and other industry and government organisations. This affords us valuable input into developing policy decisions that directly impact our industry.
We are also dedicated to ensuring our member’s customers have safe and enjoyable journeys throughout New Zealand.
About Our Industry
In New Zealand, the majority of rental vehicle operators are closely linked to the tourism sector, helping international and domestic travellers explore New Zealand.
This means operators rely on accurate and timely information from key government agencies about changes in the tourism industry. As an association, we play a key role in finding out and communicating that information to our members, as well as informing government agencies on matters which affect policy decisions.
The industry is closely regulated, with transport operators having to meet specific legal requirements in order to operate. These include the operator’s obligation to hold a transport service licence, vehicles must have a Certificate of Fitness, and rental agreements must comply with elements of transport law and the Fair Trading Act.
From relevant legal requirements to up-to-date information and resources, our role as the authoritative voice of the industry means we can help all parties gain the full and timely information they need.
Our strategic direction
Purpose
To enable safe, trusted, and sustainable mobility that connects people, drives collaboration, supports communities, and enhances New Zealand’s travel experience.
Mission
We represent, lead, and strengthen the rental vehicle industry by shaping policy, setting high standards, and building member capability to succeed.
Vision
New Zealand’s rental vehicle industry will be the safest, most trusted, and most sustainable in the world.
Our values
Integrity · Safety · Unity · Progress
Strategic pillars
- Influence the System — shaping policy, regulation and the ecosystem through credible advocacy and cross-sector leadership
- Strengthen the Industry — building member capability, standards and performance
- Shape the Future — leading long-term change through decarbonisation, technology and emerging mobility
The RVA sits at the intersection of tourism and transport — alongside associations like TIA and MTA — with a clear focus on rental mobility across Aotearoa.