Car hire New Zealand

Despite its remote location, the myriad draws of New Zealand attract countless visitors every year. Magnificent scenery and natural attractions, activity venues and the charming towns of the nation's North and South islands are most easily reached with a self-drive hire vehicle. For a list of available vehicles you can compare car hire online.

Transport

For 99 per cent of international travellers, airports in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland are the gateways to New Zealand. There are limited train routes on both islands as well as long distance bus services that link major towns. In general, public transport services in New Zealand are sporadic, and also do not reach the more remote locations. Car hire in New Zealand is a much better choice for exploring.

Car Hire New Zealand

With their own transport in New Zealand, visitors are not restricted to the cities and choice tourism draws including Cape Foulwind, Fiordland National Park and Rotorua are within range. Rental vehicles are available at all the major tourism hubs and airports in New Zealand. Global companies including Hertz and Budget provide service.

Driving

New Zealand has an extensive road network which covers most destinations on the islands. A small proportion of the roads are motorways. The majority of the roads are well maintained, but some of the more out-of-the-way places can only be reached via unpaved tracks, which require drivers to be careful. Roll-on roll-off car ferries link the two main islands across the Cook Strait.

Things To See and Do

The selection of tourism attractions in New Zealand is immense. With car rental in New Zealand some recommended road trips are from Rotorua, famed for its hot springs, and up the Bay of Plenty shoreline to Auckland. The bay features some great beaches. On South Island, Picton and onwards to the west coast gives access to the Franz Josef Glacier, Westport and Cape Foulwind.

Best Time To Visit

New Zealand has a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from lows of around 5°C from June to August, the southern winter, and highs of 25°C in January. Temperatures vary considerably depending on whether visitors are spending time on the North or South islands. Rainfall is liable at any time, but is rarely heavy. Beaches and water-based activities are best in the summer months from December to March, but for sightseeing or other activities any time is a good time to visit.