$24 Car Rental Wellington

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Top Car Deals in Wellington

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Special

Mystery Vehicle
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Wellington, NZL
Mystery Vehicle

$24

includes taxes & fees
$21 per day
found 2 days ago
Special Mystery Vehicle

Compact

Kia Stonic
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Wellington, NZL
Kia Stonic

$27

includes taxes & fees
$23 per day
found 2 days ago
Compact Kia Stonic

Economy

Suzuki Swift
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
WELLINGTON, NZL
Suzuki Swift

$26

includes taxes & fees
$23 per day
found 2 days ago
Economy Suzuki Swift

Midsize SUV

Mitsubishi Outlander
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
6011, NZL
Mitsubishi Outlander

$32

includes taxes & fees
$28 per day
found 2 days ago
Midsize SUV Mitsubishi Outlander

Fullsize SUV

Toyota Kluger
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Wellington, NZL
Toyota Kluger

$47

includes taxes & fees
$41 per day
found 2 days ago
Fullsize SUV Toyota Kluger

Premium SUV

Toyota Prado
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
WELLINGTON, NZL
Toyota Prado

$49

includes taxes & fees
$43 per day
found 2 days ago
Premium SUV Toyota Prado

Midsize Elite SUV

Mercedes GLC 200
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Wellington, NZL
Mercedes GLC 200

$153

includes taxes & fees
$104 per day
found 2 days ago
Midsize Elite SUV Mercedes GLC 200

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Lowest prices found within the past 2 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Wellington car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wellington

Renting a car in Wellington provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Cuba Street Mall, Te Papa, and the Wellington Central Business District, all of which are conveniently located within the city. Families will appreciate the spaciousness a rental car offers, making it easier to manage luggage and keep everyone together while visiting sites such as the City Gallery Wellington and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea.

Additionally, a car allows for convenient access to nearby neighborhoods like Te Aro and Petone, where you can enjoy the Petone Foreshore and Lambton Quay. The flexibility of having your own vehicle means you can plan your itinerary without worrying about public transportation schedules. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or business-related travel, renting a car enhances your visit to Wellington, ensuring that you can explore this beautiful region on your own terms.

Most popular car rentals in Wellington

  • Compact: The Compact option is a popular choice for travelers in Wellington, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for an economical and efficient way to explore the region. Its size makes it easy to navigate city streets and find parking while offering enough space for your luggage, making it perfect for flexible travel plans.
  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups, as it can comfortably fit 5 travelers and hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a bit more space and versatility compared to the Compact, allowing you to bring along extra gear or luggage without sacrificing comfort. It's an excellent choice for those planning to venture out of Wellington and enjoy various attractions in the area.
  • Fullsize SUV: Offering ample room, the Fullsize SUV accommodates up to 6 travelers and can manage either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for families or larger groups who need extra space for their belongings. With a Fullsize SUV, you can easily travel together while enjoying the comfort and capabilities necessary for exploring Wellington and its surroundings at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Wellington

  • Budget: With 5 rental locations throughout Wellington, Budget is a popular choice for travelers seeking reliable service. The company boasts an overall rating of 7.8 out of 10, highlighting their friendly service and short wait times. Known for their well-maintained vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle for your needs while exploring the beautiful Wellington area.
  • Europcar: Europcar has 2 convenient rental locations in Wellington, offering travelers a great selection of vehicles. This supplier is favored for their Compact and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for navigating both urban and rural roads. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Europcar is a solid choice for those looking to explore Wellington at their own pace.
  • Hertz: With 4 rental locations in Wellington, Hertz provides travelers with a variety of options to choose from. Known for their Midsize SUV AWD and Compact SUVs, Hertz combines convenience and quality for a seamless rental experience. Their presence in the area ensures that you can easily access a vehicle and enjoy the flexibility of your itinerary while discovering the sights of Wellington and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Wellington

  • Wellington CBD: Located in the heart of the city, Wellington CBD is perfect for a city-themed, business, or family experience. It's home to popular venues like the City Gallery Wellington, Cuba Street Mall, and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea, all within proximity. With a range of shopping centers and theaters, as well as nearby wineries and dining options, this neighborhood is ideal for those looking to explore urban attractions.
  • Te Aro: This vibrant suburb offers a blend of family-friendly, city-themed, and business experiences. Te Aro features attractions such as Cuba Street Mall and Te Papa, a renowned history museum. With access to shopping centers, theaters, and event venues, Te Aro also has a variety of bars and wineries nearby, making it a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
  • Petone: Known for its charming beach atmosphere, Petone is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts recreational spaces and a lovely esplanade, with highlights like Petone Foreshore and The Weta Cave film exhibit. With a selection of cafes and shopping areas, Petone provides a scenic and enjoyable experience, ideal for those seeking a blend of beach and culture.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Wellington

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for ample space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—like SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Wellington

The best time to rent a car in and around Wellington is September, when prices are generally lower and demand is minimal. June also offers a good opportunity with slightly low prices and low demand. March through May can provide average prices and demand, making them reasonable options as well. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand increasing during the holiday season. January and February typically follow with similarly high demand and prices.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
February62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
March60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
April58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
July50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
August51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
October54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Wellington

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Wellington into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Wellington and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Wellington

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Wellington. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Wellington

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $24.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$24
Our second best deal of the day
$26
Our third best deal of the day
$27
From the airport to your hotel
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From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Wellington?
You can find cheap car rentals in Wellington from $10 a day with Budget's midsize suv. Europcar offers compact 4-5 door cars starting from $13 a day and midsize SUV cars starting from $17 a day. Sixt also provides compact 4-5 door cars starting from $13 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a car rental in Wellington that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are the best luxury car companies in Wellington?
For luxury car rentals in Wellington, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Europcar and Sixt. Europcar offers premium SUV vehicles starting from $40 a day. Sixt provides midsize elite SUV options starting from $37 a day. These luxury rentals often include enhanced comfort and features, making them suitable for travelers seeking a more upscale experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Wellington.
Can I rent a car one-way in Wellington?
A one-way car rental in Wellington is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Europcar and Sixt may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Wellington and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore more of New Zealand without returning to their starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Wellington.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Wellington?
Wellington is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Wellington and returning to the same spot. Providers like Europcar and Sixt offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary to destinations such as:
  • Wellington Central Business District, 1 mile away
  • Paraparaumu Beach, 36 miles away
  • Waikanae Beach, 39 miles away
For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are the best car rentals in Wellington?
Car rentals in Wellington offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • compact 4-5 door
  • midsize SUV
  • standard SUV
  • compact SUV
  • special offer car
Most come with automatic transmission standard. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs for space, while couples and solo travelers often find economy or compact cars suitable. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget to ensure a comfortable trip. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are the best car rentals in Wellington for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Wellington for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and efficient to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • economy 4-5 door, starting from $21 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces.
  • compact 4-5 door, starting from $13 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient.
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Wellington Central Business District, consider sizing up to a compact SUV starting from $19 a day for extra comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are the best car rentals in Wellington for couples?
The best car rentals in Wellington for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • midsize SUV, starting from $17 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two.
  • compact SUV, starting from $19 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium SUV starting from $40 a day for scenic drives around Wellington, offering enhanced comfort and features. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are the best car rentals in Wellington for families?
The best car rentals in Wellington for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • midsize SUV, starting from $17 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat.
  • fullsize SUV, starting from $29 a day—seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage.
SUVs have ample room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a comfortable fit for trips around Wellington. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the busy months of December and March. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Wellington.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Wellington?
Wellington has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Europcar offers hybrid plug-in vehicles from $10 a day, electric vehicles from $10 a day, and hybrid options from $13 a day. Sixt also provides electric vehicles from $10 a day and hybrid options from $27 a day. Multiple rental companies in Wellington carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Wellington has public charging infrastructure, and choosing an EV can help save on fuel costs.
What is the best time to book a car in Wellington?
From June, prices in Wellington are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $13 a day during this period. December tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Wellington Central Business District
  • Paraparaumu Beach
  • Waikanae Beach
  • Half Day Tour of Wellington
  • Wellington's Full Day Lord of the Rings Locations Tour including Lunch
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What is the weather like for driving in Wellington?
Driving in Wellington is influenced by its coastal location, so conditions can vary throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around December, when routes to spots like Wellington Central Business District get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For varied conditions, a midsize SUV class offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies in Wellington?
Car rentals in Wellington are available from providers like Europcar, Sixt, and GO Rentals, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Europcar has compact 4-5 door and midsize SUV options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Sixt offers compact 4-5 door and midsize SUV hybrid vehicles with more space and stability for highways. GO Rentals rounds out the choices with economy 4-5 door hybrid and compact SUV vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Wellington.
What are good day trip destinations from Wellington by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from Wellington include:
  • Wellington Central Business District, approximately 1 mile away
  • Paraparaumu Beach, approximately 36 miles away
  • Waikanae Beach, approximately 39 miles away
  • Half Day Tour of Wellington
  • Wellington's Full Day Lord of the Rings Locations Tour including Lunch
These distances are manageable for most car types, from compact to SUV. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Wellington.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Wellington?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Wellington. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Wellington?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Wellington?
Budget car rental in Wellington can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $24. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Wellington?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Wellington. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Wellington car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Wellington?
To rent a car in Wellington, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Wellington car rental?
If you need to cancel your Wellington car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Wellington with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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