If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, whether cruising the winding South Island highways or exploring the North Island’s coastal gems, renting a car is one of the best ways to go. However, before renting a car, it is really crucial to search for a perfect company that offers options that are tailored to your requirements.
When it comes to renting a car in New Zealand, it is always plenty of options for customers. From well-known global brands including Sixt, Avis, and Budget Car Rentals etc., to trusted local suppliers such as Ezu, Go, and Snap Car Rentals, among many others, the country offers a wide range of hire options that cater to all kinds of budgets, travel styles, and itineraries.
Understanding the difference between the international and domestic rental car companies can help you make smarter and smoother decisions for your next trip in New Zealand.
Domestic or locally owned car hire companies give a unique touch to your travel experience. They may not have any global presence, but they do make up for it with their personal service, flexible policies, and a deep understanding of New Zealand’s roads and routes. Below are a few trusted domestic companies providing services in New Zealand.
| Companies | Ratings | Locations | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ezu Car Rental | 9.6 | Over 5 |
– High-quality customer service – Large fleet of vehicles |
| Snap Rentals | 9.6 | Around 6 |
– Well-maintained cars – Flexibility with one-way trips |
| Go Rentals | 9.6 | About 12 |
– Easy and quick booking process – Transparency in prices |
| Omega Car Rental | 8.8 | Around 11 |
– Easy pick-up and drop-offs – Reasonable pricing |
| Yes Rentals | 8.8 | Up to 24 |
– Competitive prices – Friendly staff |
| Mode Rentals | 8.6 | Over 6 |
– 24/7 Road Assistance – Flexibility with an additional driver |
The international rental car brands are globally recognized across many countries, including New Zealand. These are some of the suppliers popular among tourists who prefer familiarity, reliability, and consistency.
| Companies | Ratings | Locations | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sixt Rental Car | 9.4 | Around 6 |
– Global standards – Premium fleet of cars |
| Avis Car Rental | 9.4 | Over 50 |
– Strong customer service – Airport convenience |
| Ace Car Rentals | 9.2 | Around 9 |
– Affordability – Wide local coverage and expertise |
| Europcar Rentals | 9.2 | Up to 16 |
– Flexible add-ons – Eco-friendly options available |
| Bargain Rental Cars | 9.0 | Around 15 |
– No hidden charges – Customer-focused approach |
| Budget Car Rental | 8.4 | Up to 34 |
– Strong network – Consistent services |
Check if your chosen supplier is present in the major airports, cities/downtowns, or port locations in New Zealand. Know about the branches where the car hire company is operating in New Zealand. This is extremely important, especially when planning a one-way trip.
The car rental companies offer a wide range of options for rental vehicles in New Zealand. They are categorised as compact/economy cars for navigating cities and crowded regions due to their small size, SUVs and Minivans for group excursions because they are spacious and offer enough leg room, and many more are available. Select the one suited to your trip requirements.
Refer to the rental terms of the car rental companies. Check for various factors and aspects necessary for hiring a vehicle in New Zealand. Some of the basic policies include: Age and License requirements, Unlimited Kilometers, Fuel Policy, One-way fees, etc.
Understand the inclusions and insurance covered in the offered car hire options. Usually, an unlimited mileage policy, third-party liability, theft protection, and collision damage waiver are covered in the deal at no extra cost.
Look out for the ratings and reviews shared by the customers. They ensure constructive feedback and opinion about any car rental company and help to decide with much more clarity and certainty.
Analyse your trip duration and select the rental car company accordingly. Usually, suppliers offer deals with long-term as well as short-term spans; however, the time duration may affect the availability of the vehicle. So, it is always recommended to confirm the date and time before choosing a car hire company.
Many companies, including EV Hire, Green Motion, among various others, offer electric vehicles to rent in New Zealand.
Some companies permit hiring a car under 25 years of age. However, a young driver surcharge is applicable if the driver is between 21-24 years old.
The car hire companies offer various specifications, such as automatic transmission and manual transmission, for renters. You can choose any of the available options suited to your travel needs.
Yes, most of the rental car companies allow an after-hours pick-up and drop-off facility at an extra cost. To avail the out-of-hours services, request your supplier in advance to ensure smooth operation.