Tips for Driving a Rental Car in New Zealand

Driving Overview in New Zealand

Travel in New Zealand often requires a journey between the North and South islands of this country. If this is in your plans, please advise us. Cars are not allowed on the ferries that go between the two islands. Auto Europe can arrange for you to receive another car as soon as you get off the ferry. Ask us for details!

Rules of the Road

Traffic travels on the left and passing occurs on the right, similar to the United Kingdom. Additionally, we encourage travelers to refer to Auto Europe's information on reading road signs in New Zealand to help ensure a hassle-free and safe rental experience.

Speed Limits & Gas Stations in New Zealand  City: 30mph/50kph Highways: 75mph/120kph Gas Station Availability - Gasoline can be found in the major cities 24 hours a day, as well as in smaller towns and along the highways.

Parking & Tolls in New Zealand There are no toll highways in New Zealand. Parking meters are available in most cities for your rental car in New Zealand. There are paid parking lots available in many metropolitan areas.

Car Rental Insurance Information in New Zealand

Car rental insurance varies widely, so please review the information below prior to making your reservation. Regulations of the country where you rent the car will be in effect for the duration of your rental.

All our car rental rates include fire and third party liability insurance. In New Zealand, our rates provide collision and theft coverage at an advance purchase discount. Specific insurance information for your reservation will be printed on your confirmation voucher. Super CDW may be offered locally to reduce the deductible as low as zero.

The following guidelines apply to rentals commencing in New Zealand.

Required Coverage

In New Zealand, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are included in all rates. The CDW deductible (responsibility of the client) ranges from $1570 to $2390, depending on the supplier and vehicle type. Theft protection deductible also ranges from $1570 to $2390. Third party liability insurance offers coverage in case of damage or injury to people or property outside of the rental car with maximum coverage at $140,000. Fire insurance is also included in our rates.

Optional Coverage

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is available with some suppliers at the rental counter for approximately US$2 per day. There is a Deductible Waiver that lowers the non-waiverable deductible amount to US$0 for some automobiles. Optional insurance coverage is available with select suppliers only, rates subject to change without notice.

Car Rental Restrictions in New Zealand

No cars are allowed on the ferries between the North and South island of New Zealand. If you need to travel between islands, you will drop off a car at the ferry port on the North Island (Wellington) and travel to the ferry port on the South Island (Picton). You will be provided with new car by our supplier when you arrive at the ferry port. You need to contact the rental company 24-48 hours in advance so they can arrange your new car.

Restricted Countries

Cars and van rentals are not allowed to travel outside of New Zealand. Cars must stay on the island where the car was rented. Automobiles are not allowed on ferries.

One-Way Rentals

Domestic one-way car rentals are available between locations on the same island with a 3 day minimum. If you are traveling between the North and South islands, please notify us at time of booking so we can arrange to split your rental between the two islands