Arriving at Wellington International Airport and planning to explore the region by car? Renting a vehicle offers fantastic freedom, but the process can feel a little daunting. This guide covers everything from finding your rental desk and understanding the paperwork, to navigating New Zealand roads and avoiding unexpected costs.
Rental car desks at Wellington International Airport are generally located within the main terminal building, easily accessible after you collect your luggage. You’ll typically find representatives from several companies offering services here. Common rental companies operating at WLG include major providers, as well as some local businesses. Allow a little extra time for the pickup process – completing the paperwork and inspecting the vehicle can take 20-30 minutes.
Wellington and the surrounding areas offer diverse landscapes, so consider what you plan to do during your trip when selecting a car. Here are ten popular rental car options:
Here’s a general idea of daily price ranges (prices change by season and availability):
| Car Class | Approximate Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $30 - $50 |
| Compact | $40 - $60 |
| Standard | $50 - $80 |
| SUV (Intermediate) | $70 - $120 |
| Full-Size SUV | $100 - $180 |
To rent a car in New Zealand, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (held for at least one year), a credit card in the renter’s name, and a passport. The minimum age is typically 21, though some companies may have higher age restrictions, and young driver fees may apply. A security deposit is usually required, held on your credit card, and released upon the vehicle’s safe return. Be sure to understand the deposit amount and the conditions for its return.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle, while theft protection covers loss or damage due to theft. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re responsible for paying in the event of a claim. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the daily rental cost. Carefully consider your existing insurance coverage and whether the additional protection is necessary. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to explain the options clearly.
New Zealand drives on the left side of the road. Speed limits are signposted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Roads can be winding, especially outside of cities, so allow plenty of time for your journey. Parking regulations vary by city and town; pay attention to signage. There are no toll roads in the Wellington region, but be aware of parking fees in city centers. Familiarize yourself with New Zealand road rules before you set off to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license, a passport, and a credit card in the renter’s name.
New Zealand drives on the left side of the road.
Basic insurance is often included, but it usually has an excess. You can purchase additional insurance to reduce the excess.
If you have CDW, it will cover the damage up to the excess amount. You’ll be responsible for paying the excess.
Yes, but you’ll likely need to pay an additional fee and the additional driver must meet the rental requirements.
Credit cards are generally required for the deposit and rental payment. Debit cards are often not accepted.
No, there are no toll roads in the Wellington region.
The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may require you to be older, and young driver fees may apply.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and make sure it’s noted on the rental agreement.
You may be charged an additional day’s rental fee.
You can usually rent a GPS navigation system or use a smartphone app for navigation.
The excess is the amount you’re responsible for paying if the car is damaged or stolen.