Hiring a car in New Zealand offers several advantages for travelers:
1. Scenic Drives: New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Hiring a car allows you to explore the country at your own pace, taking in stunning vistas, lakes, mountains, and coastlines. Scenic drives like the Milford Road and Great Ocean Road are best experienced by car.
2. Flexibility: Having a rental car gives you the flexibility to stop wherever you please and deviate from the typical tourist routes. You can explore hidden gems and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.
3. Convenience: Public transportation in New Zealand can be limited, especially in rural areas. A car provides the convenience of getting to places that may not be easily accessible by bus or train.
4. Time Efficiency: You can make the most of your time, visiting multiple attractions in a day without being tied to fixed schedules.
5. Cost-Effective for Groups: For groups or families, sharing the cost of a rental car can be more economical than purchasing individual tickets for public transportation.
Roads in New Zealand:
- Well-Maintained: New Zealand has a network of well-maintained roads, including highways and scenic routes.
- Diverse Conditions: Roads range from smooth highways to winding mountain passes. Be prepared for varying road conditions, including gravel roads in remote areas.
- Left-Side Driving: New Zealand drives on the left side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the right side of the car.
Traffic in New Zealand:
- Traffic in New Zealand is generally light compared to major cities in many other countries. However, major cities like Auckland and Wellington can have traffic congestion during rush hours.
- In rural areas and on scenic routes, you'll often encounter less traffic, allowing for a peaceful driving experience.
Cost of Car Hire:
- Car rental costs vary based on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the rental company. It's advisable to compare prices from different rental providers to find the best deal.
Best Type of Vehicle:
- The best type of vehicle to hire depends on your travel plans. For most travelers, a standard sedan or compact car is sufficient for touring both cities and scenic routes.
- If you plan to explore remote or mountainous areas, consider renting a 4WD or SUV for added traction and clearance.
Overall, hiring a car in New Zealand is an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore the country's natural beauty, enjoy flexibility, and make the most of their visit. Just be sure to follow New Zealand's road rules and drive safely to fully enjoy your journey.
Minimum Age Requirements for Car Hire in New Zealand Generally speaking the minimum age to rent a car in New Zealand is 21, however there are some car hire companies that will rent a car to under 21 year olds. If you are between the ages of 21-25 and wishing to hire a car in New Zealand, please bear in mind that a young driver surcharge will sometimes be added. These can vary between car hire companies with more details shown in the table below:
Rental Agent
Min Age
Young driver surcharge ($NZD/day)
*average daily rates based on 7 day rental, search for today's best prices.