Location Guides for Compare Car Rentals

New Zealand

New Zealand car rentals

Canadians enjoy visiting New Zealand for its stunning natural scenery and unique, rich culture. Over thirteen million tourists arrive in here each year to explore the mountains, beaches, glaciers, fiords and lakes that comprise endless stunning landscapes. Canadians will find it is easy to get to via direct flights departing from Vancouver.

Highlights

The North Island is where the metropolitan city of Auckland can be found and is also the entry point for most Canadians. This bustling city is filled with attractions such as the 328-metre Sky Tower, the Auckland Zoo and the diverse Otara Flea Market. From here, visitors can head via car rental to the impressive Waihek Island.

Nelson is the sunniest city in the country and its stunning beaches can be found along the northern tip of South Island. It is a fantastic place for tasting fine cuisine and sipping local wine. Whale and seal lovers should head to the costal town of Kaikoura, while the natural scenery at the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers is a favorite to many and boasts some of the most stunning views around.

Exploring by car

A car rental is a great way to get around the islands, as the road network is excellent. Canadians should be aware that in New Zealand they drive on the left and there are some hazards such as logging trucks, ice and snow, which all drivers should be cautious of. An international driver’s license is not necessary but is a good idea and useful for arranging a car rental.

Tourist season and weather

From December to April the country sees its summer and most Canadians will find that this is an excellent time to escape the cold Canadian winter. The New Zealand winter is ideal for exploring the mountains although at this time it is summer in Canada. The islands are right in the middle of the Roaring Forties and therefore areas that are unsheltered can become quite cold and breezy at times.