More Blog Posts

Bargain Rental Cars is committed to the safety of our roads

Click on the banner below for information on how to make your road trip safe for you and others on the road

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a car in New Zealand for a day?

The rental car cost for a day will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $15/day for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.

How much does it cost to rent a car in New Zealand for a week?

The rental car cost for a week will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $105/week for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.

How much does it cost to rent a car in New Zealand for a month?

The rental car cost for a month will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $450/month for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.

What car rental type do people usually go for in New Zealand?

SUV is a popular category, followed by touring sedan and commuter compact.

How much does it cost for an SUV car rental in New Zealand?

The rental cost for a SUV for a day will depend on the length of the hire, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $30/day for a small/compact SUV excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.

What rental car companies are available in New Zealand?

You will find various options for rental car companies in New Zealand, from high end to budget. Bargain Rental Cars offer vehicles to suit most requirements, from SUVs, Hybrids, Station Wagons, Sedans, Compact, People Movers and Minibuses.

Which rental car companies offer the cheapest car hire rates in New Zealand?

Bargain Rental Cars offer everyday low prices. During low season, prices can go as low as $15/day for a compact car, excluding insurance and extras. If you find a cheaper option we can beat it by 10%*. Find more details here.

Which rental car pick-up locations are popular in New Zealand?

Bargain Rental Cars’ most popular rental locations are Auckland, Queenstown, Hamilton, Wellington & Christchurch.

Can I hire a car directly at the airport when I arrive in New Zealand?

Yes, you can. At Bargain Rental Cars, for bookings made in advance, a free shuttle pickup is provided from the Auckland, Queenstown, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington & Christchurch airport terminals to the branches (a short distance from the airports).

Can I pick up the rental car in one location and return it to a different location in New Zealand?

Yes, Bargain Rental Cars offer one-way car rental from and to Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Queenstown, Wellington & Christchurch.

Why should I book a rental car in New Zealand with Bargain Rental Cars?

When you rent a vehicle from Bargain Rental Cars, you are supporting a 100% New Zealand owned and operated, family business. You will always be provided with a personal service that ensures you get a rental vehicle that is not only a pleasure to drive but gives you value for money.

What do I need to rent a car in New Zealand?

To hire a vehicle in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars you will need a valid car driver’s licence and a credit card for security. If you are unable to provide a credit card, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.

Can I rent a car in New Zealand with a debit card?

Yes, you can with Bargain Rental Cars. If you are unable to provide a credit card for security, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.

Am I old enough to rent a car in New Zealand?

You can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you are 18 years old or older. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.

What are some tips for picking up the right rental car in New Zealand?

• City driving: A compact or economy car is ideal for places like Auckland or Wellington.
• Road trips: Opt for a comfortable sedan, SUV, or station wagon with enough boot space.
• Mountain or rural areas: Consider a 4WD or AWD for better handling on gravel roads or alpine routes.
• Group travel: Go for a people mover or minibus (6–12 seats) to travel together and save on fuel.

Where can I find a New Zealand car rental if I am younger than 25?

You can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you are younger than 25. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.

Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a car in New Zealand?

You can drive with your home country driver’s licence if it is in English. If your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my Australian Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold an Australian driver’s licence without any restrictions.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my U.S. Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a U.S. driver’s licence without any restrictions.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my UK Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a UK driver’s licence without any restrictions.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my Canadian Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a Canadian driver’s licence without any restrictions.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my German Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a German driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my French Driver’s license?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a French driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.

Can I drive in New Zealand with my Restricted Driver’s license?

With Bargain Rental Cars, if you’re holding a NZ Restricted Licence, you’ll be good to hire and drive a BRC rental car (please note: you can only rent cars on your restricted licence — vehicles such as minibuses and cargo vans are not permitted). For insurance purposes you are subject to the conditions of your licence. You may be liable for any insurance claim should a claim result from driving outside those conditions. You must be at least 18 years of age at the time of pick-up. A Mandatory Insurance fee of $20/day applies with an excess of $4950 in case of any incident with the vehicle.

In New Zealand, is fuel included in the rental?

No. Cars are typically supplied with a full tank and must be returned full.

Are ferry crossings between islands allowed in New Zealand?

You are allowed to take a car from Bargain Rental Cars on the ferry. Please note the ferry cost is not included with the rental.

Are child seats required for children to be in a car in New Zealand?

Yes, by NZ road rules, children must be secure in an approved child restraint (click here for more info).

Can rental car hires be extended in New Zealand?

At Bargain Rental Cars we allow booking extensions, however, this will depend on availability. We cannot guarantee any extension but will do our best to accommodate your request.

Is roadside assistance available with my car rental in New Zealand?

At Bargain Rental Cars, all our vehicles are covered by First Rescue with 24-hour roadside assistance service for any vehicle-related breakdowns.