Question 1

What is the "Rental Car Damage Fraud at Wellington Airport" scam in Wellington?

Accepted Answer

Rental car operators at Wellington Airport have documented patterns of charging customers for pre-existing damage that was not noted at pickup. The practice is more common with smaller, non-major-brand operators. Wellington's windy conditions — the city is one of the windiest in the world — are sometimes used as justification for door ding and paint chip claims that predate the rental. Photograph every panel, bumper, and door of the rental car before leaving the lot, including all pre-existing marks. Email photos to yourself immediately for a timestamp. Only sign the damage report after confirming all existing marks are documented. Prefer major operators with clear dispute processes.

Question 2

What is the "Wellington Ferry Terminal Ticket Scalping" scam in Wellington?

Accepted Answer

Scalpers operate near the Interislander and Bluebridge ferry terminals on Aotea Quay, approaching travelers to offer ferry tickets to Picton at inflated prices while claiming sailings are fully booked. The Cook Strait ferries are genuinely popular during peak summer and holiday periods, but legitimate availability can always be checked directly on the Interislander and Bluebridge websites. Scalped tickets may also be invalid or non-transferable. Book Cook Strait ferries directly through the Interislander (greatjourneysofnz.co.nz) or Bluebridge (bluebridge.co.nz) websites. Check availability yourself before accepting any claim the sailing is sold out. Tickets purchased from unauthorised sellers may be rejected at the gate.

Other Tourist Scams in Wellington

Rental Car Damage Fraud at Wellington Airport

Wellington Ferry Terminal Ticket Scalping

Experienced a scam here?