Navigating a new city can sometimes be a challenge, especially when public transport schedules don’t align with your plans. On my recent trip to Auckland, I knew I needed the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at my own pace. Renting a car turned out to be the perfect solution, allowing me to venture beyond Auckland’s city limits and experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s North Island. In this post, I’ll guide you through the best car rental options in Auckland, the routes I took, and a few tips on how to make the most of your road trip adventure.
Why Rent a Car in Auckland?
Auckland is a sprawling city made up of vibrant neighborhoods, beaches, and nearby islands, but its true charm lies in the scenic countryside that surrounds it. Renting a car made it easy for me to visit spots that are difficult to reach by public transport, like the Waitakere Ranges, Piha Beach, and even Hobbiton, which is about two hours south. Without the constraints of bus or train schedules, I could set my own pace, stop for impromptu photo sessions, and take scenic detours that enriched my journey.
Choosing the Right Car Rental Company
When it came to choosing a car rental company, I had several options in Auckland. It’s important to note that many of the international and local rental agencies are located either at Auckland Airport or within the city center. Depending on your arrival location and schedule, you’ll want to choose the most convenient pick-up point. Here are the top companies I considered:
1. Avis Car Rental
Avis is a globally recognized brand, and I found it to be one of the most convenient choices in Auckland. I booked through their website, which often offers discounts when you book in advance or for longer rental periods. Their Auckland branch is located at the airport, making it easy for travelers to pick up their car as soon as they land.
- Location: Auckland Airport & City Center
- Price: Prices start at around NZD $40 per day for economy cars, with larger SUVs or premium vehicles costing more.
- Discounts: Look for deals on the Avis website for early bookings. They often have “Pay Now” rates that are slightly cheaper.
- Experience: I opted for a Toyota Corolla, which was both fuel-efficient and spacious enough for my luggage. The pick-up process was quick, and the staff were friendly, giving me helpful tips about driving in New Zealand.
- Nearby Attractions: Once I picked up the car, I was just a short drive away from One Tree Hill, a volcanic peak with panoramic views of Auckland, and Cornwall Park, a peaceful green space perfect for a break.
2. Budget Car Rental
Budget is another popular option for tourists looking for affordable car rentals. Their prices are generally lower than Avis, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Location: Auckland Airport & City Center
- Price: Budget’s prices start at NZD $35 per day for compact vehicles.
- Discounts: Like Avis, Budget offers online booking discounts. I found a 10% discount on their website by signing up for their newsletter.
- Experience: I didn’t rent from Budget this time, but I’ve used them before in other countries. They have a wide variety of cars available, from small sedans to larger family-sized vehicles.
- Nearby Attractions: After picking up your car from Budget’s city center location, you can easily drive to Auckland Domain, one of the city’s oldest parks, which houses the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
3. Hertz
Hertz is known for its wide range of vehicle options and excellent customer service. If you’re looking for a higher-end rental experience, Hertz might be your best bet.
- Location: Auckland Airport & City Center
- Price: Prices start at around NZD $50 per day for economy vehicles, but premium cars, like a Mercedes-Benz, can cost upwards of NZD $150 per day.
- Discounts: They offer discounts for AAA members, frequent flyer miles, and even upgrades for loyalty program members.
- Experience: On a previous trip, I rented a luxury SUV from Hertz and was impressed by the seamless pick-up and drop-off process. Their vehicles are usually newer models, which provide extra peace of mind for long road trips.
- Nearby Attractions: The Hertz city center location is perfect for a quick drive to the Sky Tower, Auckland’s most iconic landmark.
4. Thrifty
Thrifty lives up to its name by offering some of the best rental prices in Auckland. Their focus is on budget-conscious travelers, but they don’t skimp on service.
- Location: Auckland Airport & City Center
- Price: Thrifty offers some of the lowest prices in Auckland, starting at just NZD $30 per day.
- Discounts: I managed to snag a 15% discount by booking more than a month in advance through their website. They also offer weekend specials.
- Experience: I rented a small Hyundai Getz from Thrifty, which was perfect for zipping around the city and parking in tight spots. The vehicle was basic but clean, and the fuel economy was fantastic.
- Nearby Attractions: After picking up my car from the Thrifty airport location, I drove straight to Mission Bay Beach, which was only a 20-minute drive and offered beautiful views of Rangitoto Island.
5. Jucy Rentals
For something a bit different, I opted for Jucy Rentals during a day trip outside of Auckland. Jucy is a quirky, budget-friendly company that offers campervans and regular rental cars. They’re ideal for adventurous travelers who want to explore more remote parts of New Zealand.
- Location: Auckland Airport & City Center
- Price: Jucy’s compact cars start at NZD $29 per day, but their campervans are pricier, starting at NZD $80 per day.
- Discounts: They offer discounts for long-term rentals and frequently have promotions on their website.
- Experience: I rented a small hatchback from Jucy, which was easily recognizable with their bright green and purple branding. The car was no-frills but got me where I needed to go. Their campervans are also popular among travelers looking for budget accommodation on the road.
- Nearby Attractions: After grabbing my Jucy rental, I decided to take a longer drive to the Waitakere Ranges. The lush rainforests and waterfalls in this regional park are only about 30 kilometers from Auckland, and the drive is stunning.
Driving Around Auckland and Beyond
Once I had my rental car, driving around Auckland was a breeze, thanks to the well-maintained roads and clear signage. However, a few things are important to keep in mind:
- Driving on the Left: New Zealand drives on the left side of the road, which might take some getting used to if you’re from a country that drives on the right. I had to stay extra alert, especially when turning at intersections.
- Tolls: Some motorways around Auckland, such as State Highway 1, have tolls. I found it convenient to pay the tolls online to avoid any delays.
- Parking: Parking in downtown Auckland can be expensive, especially during peak hours. I used parking apps like ParkMate to find affordable spots. Many tourist attractions also offer free parking.
Best Road Trips from Auckland
With a rental car, I was able to explore several incredible locations just outside of Auckland. Here are a few of my favorite day trips:
1. Piha Beach
Just a 45-minute drive west of Auckland, Piha Beach is one of the most popular destinations for surfers and nature lovers. The winding roads leading to the beach are surrounded by dense forests, and the view as you descend toward the black sand beach is breathtaking.
- Tip: Bring lunch or stop at the Piha Café. Parking is free, and there are plenty of hiking trails nearby, including the famous Lion Rock climb.
2. Hobbiton
As a “Lord of the Rings” fan, visiting Hobbiton was a must for me. The drive to Matamata, where the movie set is located, takes about two hours from Auckland. The tour itself is magical, offering a glimpse into the world of Middle-earth.
- Tip: Book your tickets online in advance. There’s plenty of parking available at the site, and the guided tour includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
3. Coromandel Peninsula
A longer drive (about 2.5 hours from Auckland), but worth every minute, the Coromandel Peninsula is home to some of the North Island’s most beautiful beaches and hot springs. The winding coastal roads and rugged landscapes make this a memorable trip.
- Tip: Make sure to visit Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Renting a car in Auckland was one of the best decisions I made on this trip. It allowed me the freedom to explore not only the city but also the incredible natural beauty that New Zealand is known for. Whether you’re planning a short city trip or an extended road trip, having a car opens up so many possibilities.
