New Zealand Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to rent a car in New Zealand

CarsCars

Auckland

Auckland

What you need to know for your New Zealand car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in New Zealand

Renting a car in New Zealand is an excellent choice for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and road trippers who want the freedom to explore at their own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage while enjoying flexible travel plans. This flexibility allows you to visit key attractions like the Hobbiton Movie Set, perfect for fans of the films, and the iconic Sky Tower, which offers stunning city views. If you're a fan of outdoor activities, the Bay of Islands is a scenic destination that showcases the natural beauty of New Zealand's beaches and landscapes.

A rental car also makes it easy to explore popular destinations such as Auckland, known for its vibrant atmosphere and landmarks like Spark Arena and Princes Wharf. For those heading to Queenstown, the city is renowned for its picturesque gardens and thrilling adventures at Bob's Peak. Alternatively, Christchurch City Centre invites you to discover the tranquil Hagley Park and the bustling Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre. Overall, having a rental car enhances your New Zealand experience by providing the convenience and freedom to create your own travel itinerary.

Most popular car rentals in New Zealand

  • Midsize SUV: This option comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. It's perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy New Zealand's stunning scenery. The midsize SUV offers a balance of space and maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore at their own pace while having room for luggage and gear.
  • Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car option fits 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is great for navigating New Zealand's diverse landscapes, providing efficiency and ease of parking in urban areas. Its smaller size makes it a favorite among those who appreciate flexibility and fuel economy during their travels.
  • Fullsize SUV: With the capacity to fit 6 travelers and store up to 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize SUV is perfect for larger families or groups. Its spacious interior allows for comfort during long drives, making it an excellent choice for road trippers who want to enjoy New Zealand's breathtaking views without compromising on space or luggage needs.

10 tips to save on your New Zealand car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be an option. Renters over the age of 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge; however, the convenience might be worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Find New Zealand Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next New Zealand car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in New Zealand, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in New Zealand offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your New Zealand car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in New Zealand to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our New Zealand airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many New Zealand rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your New Zealand airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my New Zealand car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours before collecting the car, many prepaid rentals qualify for a total refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it's important to understand the policy. Read through your booking for the finer details or head to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in New Zealand with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easy to compare prices, offers and rental companies, and to check reviews. Combine your New Zealand car rental with flight or hotel bookings to save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, the rule is usually 21 years of age and over. Most outlets will charge additional fees for young drivers, which can vary based on the rental location. Rental policies for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as luxury cars, and require comprehensive insurance to be taken out. Be sure to read the fine print carefully before booking your wheels.
What do you need to rent a car in New Zealand?
Renting a car in New Zealand is a cinch. Generally, all that's required is a current driver's license and a credit card in your name. Once you've found your favorite set of wheels, check your policy to make sure there are no additional requirements prior to the pickup date.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in New Zealand?
Expedia makes it a cinch to book a long-term rental in New Zealand. Just visit our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and compare your options.
Where can I find a New Zealand car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to check the age policy of the New Zealand rental suppliers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years old, some outlets will charge extra fees. It's good to know this before arriving at the desk so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Every rental car company has its own rules for young drivers, so be sure to do your research.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in New Zealand?
It's a good idea to add collision damage protection while reserving your New Zealand car rental with Expedia. This covers your vehicle against accident damage, theft and vandalism throughout your road trip. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and round-the-clock emergency support, you can drive away knowing you're covered for many mishaps. Simply opt in to this insurance while booking your rental car.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation