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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in New Zealand
New Zealand
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
New Zealand
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
New Zealand
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
New Zealand
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in New Zealand?
New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, offers breathtaking landscapes, from stunning fjords and glaciers to pristine beaches and lush rainforests. While guided tours and buses are available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore this magnificent country at your own pace. Here’s why booking a car is the best way to experience New Zealand.
Unparalleled Freedom and Flexibility. With a rental car, you can deviate from the typical tourist routes and discover hidden gems that public transport simply cannot reach. Explore remote beaches, quaint towns, and scenic viewpoints on your own schedule.
Access to Remote and Rugged Terrain. New Zealand is known for its diverse landscapes, many of which are best accessed by car. Venture into the Southern Alps, drive along the winding coastal roads, or explore the North Island's geothermal wonders with ease.
Comfort and Convenience for All Travellers. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with a family, a rental car offers a comfortable and convenient way to get around. Avoid the hassle of public transport schedules and enjoy the journey in style.
Cost-Effective for Groups and Families. Renting a car can often be more economical than purchasing multiple tour packages or bus tickets, especially for groups and families. Split the cost of the rental and fuel, and enjoy a personalized adventure.
Driving in New Zealand: Rules, Tips & Local Regulations
Drive on
Left hand side
Speed limit within city centre
50 km/h or 31 mph
Languages
English, Māori
Average petrol price
£1.60 per litre or £6.06 per gallon
Speed limit outside the city
100 km/h or 62 mph
Currency
New Zealand Dollar
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Score
9.0/10
Dialing Code
+64
Driving in New Zealand is a fantastic way to see the country, but it’s essential to be aware of the local rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.
1. General Driving Rules Drive on the left side of the road. All occupants must wear seatbelts. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless it's hands-free.
- Headlights must be used at all times when visibility is poor.
- Overtake only on the right, unless indicated otherwise.
2. Speed Limits The default speed limit on open roads is 100 km/h (62 mph), but this can vary, so pay attention to road signs. In urban areas, the speed limit is generally 50 km/h (31 mph).
- School zones often have lower speed limits during school hours.
- Always adjust your speed to suit the road conditions.
3. Road Signs Road signs are generally clear and easy to understand, but be aware of signs indicating one-lane bridges, winding roads, and changes in road conditions.
- Give-way rules apply at intersections, so be prepared to yield.
- Be aware of temporary speed restrictions due to roadworks.
4. Alcohol and Driving The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.05%. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe, including fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.
- It's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're planning to drive.
- Police conduct random breath testing, so be aware.
5. Toll Roads Some roads in New Zealand have tolls. You can pay tolls online or at designated payment points.
- The Northern Gateway Toll Road north of Auckland is one example.
- Check the toll road operator's website for payment options.
Top drives in the New Zealand:
New Zealand is renowned for its scenic drives and breathtaking landscapes. Renting a car allows you to explore these routes at your own pace.
From the North Island's geothermal wonders to the South Island's rugged mountains and fjords, there's a road trip to suit every adventurer. Enjoy the journey and discover the beauty of New Zealand.
Car Rental Prices in New Zealand – Cost Breakdown
Car rental prices in New Zealand can vary depending on the type of vehicle, the rental duration, and the time of year. Here’s a breakdown of estimated daily prices.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €40
Classic:
from £25 / $31 / €28
Executive:
from £55 / $69 / €62
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €68
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34
SUV:
from £45 / $56 / €51
Hire price
Average price for hiring a car per day in the New Zealand
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Prices start at approximately £60 / $75 / €68 per day. Demand is high due to the summer holidays and school breaks.
Shoulder season (March to May & September to November): Prices range from £40 / $50 / €45 to £50 / $63 / €56 per day. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
Low season (June to August): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €34 per day. Winter brings snow to the mountains, but some roads may be affected by weather conditions.
Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location.
Tips for saving money when renting a car in New Zealand
Renting a car in New Zealand can be an expensive part of your trip, but there are several ways to save money without compromising on your experience.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals.: Car rental prices tend to increase closer to the pick-up date. Booking several weeks or months in advance can secure better rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
2. Compare Prices and Look for Discounts.: Use comparison websites to find the most competitive prices from different rental companies. Look for discounts offered through travel agencies, credit card partnerships, or loyalty programs.
3. Choose the Right Car for Your Needs.: Opt for a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle if you don't need a large SUV. Compact cars are generally cheaper to rent and consume less fuel.
4. Decline Optional Insurance.: Check if your existing travel insurance or credit card provides rental car coverage. If so, you can decline the additional insurance offered by the rental company.
5. Avoid Airport Pick-up Locations.: Rental locations at airports often have higher fees and taxes. Consider renting from a downtown or off-airport location to save money.
6. Refuel Before Returning.: Rental companies typically charge much higher prices for refuelling. Fill up the tank at a local petrol station before returning the car.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in New Zealand?
To rent a car in New Zealand, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Here's a checklist of what you'll need:
Valid Driver's License. You'll need a full, valid driver's license from your home country. If your license is not in English, you'll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Minimum Age. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
Credit or Debit Card. A valid credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
Proof of Identity. You'll need a passport or other form of photo identification.
Booking Confirmation. It's a good idea to have a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmation.
Our Content Quality
This content was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
Every piece of information on this page has gone through our Content Quality Assurance (CQA) process — a multi-step review that includes human editing, localisation accuracy checks, and expert travel validation.
Learn more about our Content Quality Standards
This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as New Zealand as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
New Zealand was breathtaking! Family loved it, though the campervan's WiFi was spotty.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 22.11.2024
Amazing scenery! Whizzed around the South Island on a quick business trip – stunning.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 09.11.2024
Pretty good drive
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 11.04.2025
Summer in New Zealand was incredible! Exploring the islands by car was so freeing and scenic.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 21.08.2024
Scenic drives made my short business trip amazing. New Zealand's beauty is unforgettable!
David Lee
Reviewed: 10.02.2025
Such a spontaneous weekend escape! New Zealand's landscapes were incredible, although the crowds at Milford Sound were a bit much.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 18.03.2025
Unforgettable family adventure! Exploring New Zealand by car was seamless.
Alice Johnson
Reviewed: 11.08.2025
Efficient trip; New Zealand's beauty amazed.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 27.04.2025
Pretty relaxed, really
Liam Brown
Reviewed: 08.11.2024
Pretty sweet trip
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 31.08.2024
Pretty chill, eh?
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 28.01.2025