New Zealand Car Hire

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Getting the right New Zealand car hire

Since many roads in New Zealand can be dangerous to drive on, you may not want to get the cheapest car model the car company has to offer. But almost every agency you hire your car from will provide 24 hour assistance if your car breaks down.

Many companies will also offer vehicles equipped with GPS a minimal daily fee. This can be a real time saver when navigating foreign cities and roads in the dark for instance. If you are traveling during winter, ask about chains, which many companies will also provide. Also ask in advance about insurance, car seats, ski racks, after hours drop off, and ticket booking for inter-island ferries. You may be surprised what some companies can offer!

Getting a great deal on your New Zealand Car Hire

  1. Book your car hire in advance. Many people think that they can get last minute deals, but if you wait too long, prices go way up. Do not wait to get your car when you arrive. At least a month or so in advance is advisable (although not always possible!), do your research and compare prices online to get the best deal.

  2. Keep an eye out for specials, coupons, and discounts. Sometimes your credit card or the company you have car insurance though offers additional discounts on your car hire.

  3. You may get a great deal to begin with, but then end up paying an arm and a leg in fees. So make sure that you ask in advance about out late penalties and gas charges. Also ask what time you have to return the car so that you don't have to pay extra for a late drop-off.

What are driving conditions in New Zealand like?

Planning on taking a holiday to New Zealand soon? New Zealand is a lot like many more rural parts of Australia. Roads are narrow and inclement weather can make them hazardous to drive on, so be as cautious as possible. It is common for roads in New Zealand to be winding and hilly as well, so it may take you longer than you expect to get from one point to another on the map.

As long as you have an Australian driver's license, you can legally drive in New Zealand. So know you have a better idea of how to get a great deal on a New Zealand hire car you'll be able to avoid nasty hidden fees, finding specials, using coupons and booking ahead to save even more.

  • hiker_george May 23, 2009, 9:21 pm

    my best advice is to check all the fine print for hidden fees on the hire car websites. I got stung an extra $125.00 when I went to pick up the car because I was under 27. Just be careful, they're get you.

  • Mark Rawls May 27, 2009, 11:56 am

    Unbelievable. This happened to me too. I think they all young males below 20 are going to absolutely trash their cars.

    I drive a hire car more carefully than my own, I can't afford the massive excesses!

    Definitely shop around on the web. You can get a great deal with smaller independent operators.

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One of the best ways to explore New Zealand is to explore by car. New Zealand car hire companies are in fierce competition. They want your business. Read our guide for some helpful tips before hiring a car.
new zealand car hire