Rental cars booked as part of a New Zealand Self Drive Tours holiday include the vehicle hire, standard insurance cover, unlimited kilometres and 24-hour roadside assistance. In most cases, vehicles also include modern features such as air conditioning, automatic transmission and Bluetooth connectivity. Specific inclusions can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle category.
A rental car is one of the most important parts of a New Zealand self-drive holiday.
Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore destinations such as Auckland, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Christchurch, Queenstown and Milford Sound at your own pace.
While vehicle specifications vary, there are several standard inclusions travellers can generally expect.
What is usually included with my rental car?
Most rental vehicles include:
- Unlimited kilometres
- Standard insurance cover
- 24-hour roadside assistance
- Airport collection and drop-off options
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Additional driver options (depending on the rental company)
- Modern safety features
Most vehicles also include:
- Air conditioning
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB charging ports
- Automatic transmission
- Power steering
Specific inclusions can vary depending on the rental supplier and vehicle category selected.
Does my rental car include insurance?
Yes.
Rental vehicles include standard insurance cover, although an excess usually applies if the vehicle is damaged.
Many travellers choose to reduce this excess through additional protection packages offered by the rental company.
Before travelling, it's worth reviewing both your rental vehicle insurance and your travel insurance cover to understand exactly what is included.
Does my rental car include breakdown cover?
Yes.
Most rental vehicles include 24-hour roadside assistance and breakdown support.
If mechanical issues occur during your trip, help is available throughout New Zealand, including in popular touring regions such as the Bay of Islands, Coromandel, West Coast and Mount Cook National Park.
You can learn more in our guide to breakdown cover for rental cars.
Are rental cars automatic or manual?
Most rental vehicles supplied to international visitors are automatic.
Manual vehicles are available through some suppliers, but automatics are now the most common option.
If you have a preference, it's best to discuss this when planning your trip.
You can read more in our guide to manual and automatic rental cars in New Zealand.
What fuel do rental cars use?
Most modern rental vehicles use either petrol or hybrid technology, although some larger SUVs and specialty vehicles may use diesel.
The fuel type is clearly marked on the vehicle and rental documentation.
You can find more information in our guide to what fuel New Zealand rental cars use.
Can I take my rental car on the Interislander ferry?
This depends on the rental company.
Many self-drive itineraries include travel between the North and South Islands, but some rental suppliers require vehicle changes between islands rather than taking the same vehicle across.
If your itinerary includes both islands, we'll advise the best option for your trip.
Learn more about taking rental cars on the Interislander ferry.
Why is a rental car the best way to explore New Zealand?
A self-drive itinerary allows you to explore beyond the main cities and experience many of New Zealand's highlights.
You can discover Māori cultural experiences in Rotorua, enjoy food and wine experiences in Hawke's Bay, visit national parks throughout both islands and experience the spectacular scenery of Milford Sound and the Southern Alps on your own schedule.