Premium Car Hire in Wellington, New Zealand

Looking for cheap car hire in Wellington to explore the south west of the North Island?

Explore the Wairarapa region, famous for its vineyards and charming small towns.

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. One of the city's top highlights is the Wellington Cable Car, offering spectacular views as it travels up to Kelburn, where you can visit the Carter Observatory and the Botanic Garden. The city is also home to Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, which houses fascinating exhibitions showcasing the country's history, art, and diverse cultures. The waterfront area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with its modern architecture, sculpture installations, and a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Just outside Wellington, you can explore the rugged beauty of the Wairarapa region, famous for its vineyards, charming small towns, and the iconic Cape Palliser Lighthouse. Hiking enthusiasts can venture to the Rimutaka Ranges or the Tararua Forest Park, where they can experience dramatic landscapes and native New Zealand flora and fauna. If you're interested in film, the nearby location of the Lord of the Rings trilogy offers a chance to see the magical sites that brought Middle-earth to life.

Wellington is also a gateway to wildlife experiences, with the opportunity to take a boat trip across the Cook Strait to visit the picturesque Marlborough Sounds. On the way, you might spot dolphins, seals, and even whales, making it a memorable adventure for nature lovers. Whether you're enjoying the local art scene, hiking in the nearby ranges, or experiencing the wildlife, Wellington and its surrounding areas offer something for everyone.

Car rental in Wellington

Renting a car with us in Wellington, New Zealand, offers several advantages for visitors seeking flexibility and convenience. While the city itself boasts a reliable public transport system, having a rental car allows you to explore beyond the urban limits at your own pace. With a car, you can easily access nearby attractions like the Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary, the coastal beauty of the Kapiti Coast, or the charming town of Martinborough, renowned for its wineries. Additionally, renting a car provides the freedom to embark on scenic drives, such as the Remutaka Hill Road, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

For those planning to venture further, one of our rental cars becomes indispensable. Wellington serves as a gateway to the South Island, and with car, you can take the ferry to Picton and continue your journey through the Marlborough Sounds or the Nelson region. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for travelers wishing to tailor their itinerary without being restricted by public transport schedules. Moreover, having a car ensures you can reach more remote or less accessible destinations, enhancing your overall travel experience in New Zealand.

However, it's essential to consider the logistics of car rental. While parking in Wellington's central business district can be challenging and costly, renting a car from Wellington Airport might offer more competitive rates due to the higher number of rental agencies operating there. Additionally, some rental companies permit vehicles to be taken on the ferry to the South Island, but it's crucial to confirm this in advance to avoid unexpected charges or restrictions. By planning ahead and understanding the terms of your rental agreement, you can maximize the benefits of having a car during your stay in Wellington, whether for leisure or business.

• Economy & Compact Cars
  

  Ideal for budget-conscious travellers and zipping around Nelson city. Fuel-efficient and easy to park. (e.g., Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris)

• Sedans / Intermediate Cars
  

  Comfortable and reliable for longer journeys or small families needing a bit more space. (e.g., Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Accent)

• SUVs (Compact to Full-Size)
  

  Perfect for families needing extra luggage space or those looking to explore scenic drives and national parks with confidence. (e.g., Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, Kia Sportage)

• People Movers / Vans
  

  Travelling with a larger group? Our spacious people movers and vans offer comfortable seating for everyone. (e.g., Toyota Hiace - seats 8-12)

• Electric & Hybrid Options
  

  Travel sustainably with our eco-friendly options, reducing your carbon footprint while exploring Nelson. (Availability may vary)

Through our rental partners we are able to offer a selction of car hire depots catering to different needs in Wellington, New Zealand, whether you're arriving at the airport, staying in the city, or exploring nearby regions, or arriving in the area for business travel.

Premium Car Rental Companies that we work with in Wellington:

• Apex (City Centre)
  Location: 186 Victoria Street, Te Aro (City Centre)
• Avis (Airport)
  Location: Stewart Duff Drive, Rongotai, Wellington 6022 (Airport)
• Go Rentals (Airport)
  Location: 357 Broadway, Miramar (City Centre)
  Location: Stewart Duff Drive, Rongotai, Wellington 6022 (Airport)

Tourist highlights in and around Wellington New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand's capital, offers a variety of vibrant attractions for tourists, from cultural landmarks to natural beauty. Here are some top highlights to explore in and around the city:

1. Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand)
   Te Papa is one of the most popular museums in New Zealand, offering a deep dive into the country's history, art, and indigenous culture. The exhibits range from interactive displays on New Zealand’s geological features to Maori heritage and art collections. It's free to enter, making it a must-see for those interested in New Zealand’s unique history and heritage.
2. Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Gardens
   A ride on the Wellington Cable Car offers stunning views of the city as you ascend to the Kelburn lookout. At the top, you'll find the Wellington Botanic Gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll through various themed gardens, including a rose garden, native plant sections, and even a playground. The adjacent Carter Observatory provides further panoramic views and educational exhibits about the stars and planets.
3. Wellington Waterfront
   The waterfront area is a great place to explore, with its mix of scenic beauty, culture, and entertainment. The area includes notable spots like the Wellington Museum, which celebrates the city’s maritime history, and the Frank Kitts Park, ideal for a relaxing afternoon. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere with numerous cafés and restaurants offering local delicacies.
4. Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary
   Located just a short drive from downtown, Zealandia is a conservation project that gives visitors a chance to experience New Zealand's native wildlife in a natural, predator-free environment. It is home to some of the country's rarest species, including the iconic kiwi bird. Zealandia offers both daytime and night tours, allowing you to witness the nocturnal life of native animals.
5. Mount Victoria Lookout
   For one of the best views of Wellington, head to Mount Victoria lookout. This spot provides a panoramic view of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding hills. It's also known for its connection to the Lord of the Rings movies, with several filming locations nearby. The walk up to the lookout is relatively short, making it accessible to most visitors.
6. Weta Workshop and Weta Cave
   Movie lovers will appreciate a visit to the Weta Workshop, famous for its role in creating props, costumes, and special effects for major films like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. The Weta Cave is a smaller gallery where you can see exhibits of the team’s work, and guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic is made.
7. Day Trips to Surrounding Areas
   Just outside of Wellington, you'll find plenty to explore. The Kapiti Coast offers beautiful beaches, while the Wairarapa region is known for its vineyards and quaint towns like Martinborough. The nearby Rimutaka and Tararua Ranges are great for hiking, with numerous trails offering a mix of coastal, forest, and mountain scenery. You can also take a ferry to the South Island for further exploration.

Whether you’re drawn to art, history, nature, or film, Wellington and its surroundings have something for everyone.

Recommended Multi-day Car Hire Tours

If you're looking to explore Wellington and its surroundings with a car over 2-3 days, you can take a few scenic routes that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty, charming towns, and iconic landmarks of the region. Here are a couple of great car tour suggestions:

1. 2-Day Car Tour: Wellington to Martinborough and the Wairarapa Region

This is a wonderful tour for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to experience a charming, rural New Zealand setting.

Day 1: Wellington to Martinborough

• Morning:
  • Start your journey in Wellington, heading east towards the Wairarapa region. The drive from Wellington to Martinborough takes about 1.5 hours, passing through picturesque countryside.
  • Upon arrival, visit some of Martinborough’s renowned wineries, where you can enjoy wine tastings and take a leisurely stroll around the town. The region is known for its Pinot Noir, so it’s worth visiting a few cellar doors like Ata Rangi or Palliser Estate.
• Afternoon:
  • After the wine tour, take some time to explore the historic town of Martinborough. You can wander through its charming streets, enjoy local cafés, and perhaps visit the Martinborough Town Hall or the lovely nearby Lake Ferry.
• Evening:
  • Stay overnight in Martinborough or one of the surrounding areas. Many accommodations are located on or near the vineyards, offering a peaceful and scenic setting.

Day 2: Martinborough to Castlepoint and Back to Wellington

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, head north towards Castlepoint, a stunning coastal area known for its dramatic landscapes, including the famous Castlepoint Lighthouse. This drive will take around 2 hours.
• Midday:
  • Explore the Castlepoint Beach and the lighthouse. You can take a short walk to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the Tasman Sea.
• Afternoon:
  • Drive back to Wellington, which will take about 2.5 hours. Along the way, you can stop at the charming town of Featherston or visit the nearby Pukaha National Wildlife Centre to see kiwi birds and other native wildlife.
• Evening:
  • Arrive back in Wellington by evening.

2. 3-Day Car Tour: Wellington to the Kapiti Coast and the Tararua Ranges

This tour combines coastal beauty with forested mountain landscapes, offering a variety of experiences from beach walks to hiking and exploring small towns.

Day 1: Wellington to Paraparaumu and the Kapiti Coast

• Morning:
  • Start your drive from Wellington and head north on State Highway 1. In about an hour, you’ll arrive at the Kapiti Coast, an area known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
• Midday:
  • Stop in the town of Paraparaumu and visit the Kapiti Coast Museum or take a walk along the beach. If you’re interested in wildlife, you could take a ferry to Kapiti Island, a nature reserve home to rare bird species like the kiwi.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore more of the Kapiti Coast, stopping at small towns like Waikanae and Otaki. Take a walk through the Otaki Gorge or visit a local art gallery.
• Evening:
  • Stay overnight in Paraparaumu or nearby, enjoying a coastal dinner overlooking the beach.

Day 2: Kapiti Coast to the Tararua Ranges

• Morning:
  • Drive further north to explore the Tararua Ranges, a stunning mountainous region with great hiking options. The drive will take you about 1.5-2 hours.
• Midday:
  • Depending on your level of fitness and time, consider hiking one of the many trails in the Tararua Forest Park. The Holdsworth-Jumbo circuit is a popular trail with beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.
• Afternoon:
  • After a day of hiking, head to the small town of Masterton, located on the edge of the Tararua Ranges. Here, you can explore the local heritage museums or visit nearby rural attractions like the Henley Lake.
• Evening:
  • Spend the night in Masterton or in a nearby rural retreat, enjoying the peaceful country atmosphere.

Day 3: Masterton to Wellington via the Rimutaka Ranges

• Morning:
  • Begin your journey back to Wellington by heading south on State Highway 2. The drive will take you through the Rimutaka Ranges, offering stunning mountain views along the way.
• Midday:
  • Stop for a scenic walk or picnic at Rimutaka Forest Park. The park offers a variety of trails with beautiful views and native forest.
• Afternoon:
  • Continue your drive back to Wellington, which will take about 1.5 hours from Masterton. If you have time, stop at Pukerua Bay for a walk along the beach or a visit to the nearby Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour.
• Evening:
  • Arrive back in Wellington and enjoy the rest of the evening exploring the city.

3. 3-Day Car Tour: Wellington to the South Island via the Cook Strait

For an extended tour, you can drive from Wellington to the South Island, experiencing both the beauty of the capital city and the stunning Marlborough Sounds.

Day 1: Wellington to Picton (via Ferry)

• Morning:
  • Take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, which takes around 3 hours and offers incredible views of the Cook Strait and Marlborough Sounds.
• Midday:
  • Upon arrival in Picton, explore the town or take a cruise around the Marlborough Sounds.
• Afternoon:
  • If time permits, head to nearby Queen Charlotte Drive, known for its breathtaking coastal views, or visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre to explore aviation history.
• Evening:
  • Stay overnight in Picton or Blenheim.

Day 2: Marlborough to Kaikoura

• Morning:
  • Drive south from Picton to Kaikoura, a small coastal town famous for its marine wildlife. The drive takes around 2 hours.
• Midday:
  • Visit Kaikoura's Whale Watch tours or take a swim with dolphins.
• Afternoon:
  • You can also take a walk along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views.
• Evening:
  • Stay overnight in Kaikoura, known for its fresh seafood.

Day 3: Kaikoura to Wellington (via the Ferry)

• Morning:
  • Drive back to Picton, where you can catch the ferry back to Wellington in the afternoon.
• Midday:
  • Explore any remaining attractions in Picton or enjoy a relaxing lunch before returning to the ferry terminal.
• Afternoon:
  • Return to Wellington via the ferry, taking in the scenic views on the way back.