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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Wellington
Wellington
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Wellington
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Wellington
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Wellington
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 Wellington?
Wellington, New Zealand, is a city brimming with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems. While public transport is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Here's why a rental car is your best travel companion:
Explore Beyond the City Limits. Wellington is the gateway to the North Island's scenic wonders. With a rental car, you can easily access places like the Wairarapa wine region, Kapiti Coast beaches, and the Rimutaka Forest Park.
Uncover Hidden Gems. Discover secluded beaches, charming small towns, and breathtaking viewpoints that are often inaccessible by public transport. A car allows you to venture off the beaten path and create your own unique itinerary.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience. Set your own schedule and travel at your own pace. No need to adhere to bus timetables or train schedules. Stop wherever and whenever you want, maximizing your exploration time.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Wellington
Before renting a car in Wellington, it's crucial to understand the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Be aware of age requirements, driver's licence regulations, insurance options, and other essential policies.
Area
290 square kilometres (110 square miles)
Population
Approximately 215,000 residents
Time Zone
NZST (UTC+12) & NZDT (UTC+13) during daylight saving time
Ideal for
Exploring the greater Wellington region
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence from your home country is usually sufficient for short-term rentals. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsComprehensive insurance is highly recommended. A security deposit is typically required, which will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyUnlimited mileage is often included, but always confirm. Fuel policies vary; some require you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Toll RoadsBe aware of toll roads in the North Island. Your rental company can advise on payment options, including pre-purchased toll packages.
Car Rental Prices in Wellington – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9.50 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to summer holidays and increased tourism.
Low season (June to August): Often offers discounts as demand decreases during the winter months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Wellington?
Booking a rental car in Wellington is easy if you follow these steps. From comparing prices to understanding the fine print, preparation is key to a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies. Look for special offers and discounts.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs and budget. Consider the size of your group, luggage requirements, and driving conditions.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure availability by booking your car well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and any other required documentation when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Wellington
Wellington is known for its vibrant arts scene, culinary delights, and stunning natural surroundings. Navigating the city and its surroundings is much easier with a rental car, offering the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
As the capital of New Zealand, Wellington is a compact and walkable city, but a car is invaluable for exploring the wider region.
Top Attractions to Discover
Te Papa Museum
New Zealand's national museum, offering interactive exhibits and a glimpse into the country's history and culture.
Mount Victoria Lookout
Panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding hills.
Wellington Botanic Garden
A tranquil oasis with diverse plant collections and scenic walking trails.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available throughout the city centre, offering secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but time limits and restrictions apply. Check signage carefully.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the centre.
Gas Stations in Wellington
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available throughout Wellington and the surrounding areas.
Major Brands
You'll find major fuel brands like BP, Z Energy, and Mobil.
Fuel Up Before Heading Out
It's advisable to fill up your tank before embarking on longer journeys outside the city.
Useful Tips for Visiting Wellington
Use Contactless Payment
Contactless payment is widely accepted for public transport, parking, and other services.
Allow Extra Time for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially on weekdays.
Be Aware of One-Way Streets
Many streets in the city centre are one-way, so pay attention to traffic signs.
Check Weather Conditions
Wellington is known for its changeable weather, so be prepared for all conditions.
Key Transportation Hubs in Wellington
Major Bus Stations
Wellington Railway Station Bus Interchange
A central hub for bus services throughout the region.
Railway Stations
Wellington Railway Station
The main railway station, connecting Wellington with other cities in the North Island.
Airports
Wellington Airport (WLG)
Located approximately 8 kilometres (5 miles) southeast of the city centre, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Wellington?
Renting a car in Wellington requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria. Ensuring you have these ready will streamline the rental process and get you on the road quickly.
A full and valid driver's license is required. If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may have additional surcharges for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit and rental charges. Some companies may prefer credit cards.
A passport or other form of official identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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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 Wellington 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.
Back in Wellington after years away, and it's even better! So much easier to get around with a car.
David Lee
Reviewed: 22.01.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Evans
Reviewed: 26.03.2025
Pretty relaxed, really.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 09.04.2025
Pretty decent, really.
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 27.06.2025
Pretty laid-back, really.
Kai Jensen
Reviewed: 13.02.2025
Loved exploring Wellington! Getting around with a rental was a breeze; so convenient. The city is beautiful.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 01.06.2025
Exploring Wellington with a car was a breeze; it made everything so accessible. The city itself is lovely, though the coffee I had near the waterfront was a bit weak. Highly recommend!
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 18.04.2025
Pretty good, really.
Ethan Davis
Reviewed: 29.07.2025
Pretty decent place
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.09.2024
Pretty cool, actually.
Noah Wilson
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
Solid, pretty chill.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 24.03.2025
Wellington was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy, especially getting to those stunning coastal spots. Spent a relaxing few days unwinding by the sea, absolutely loved it.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 18.02.2025