Quick Take
Hiring a rental car is one of the best ways to experience New Zealand.
From winding coastal roads and alpine passes to hidden beaches and charming small towns, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
But with so many rental companies to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your trip?
In this guide, we’ve compared some of New Zealand’s best-known rental car companies, looking at who they’re best suited for, their strengths, customer reputation and the type of traveller each company serves best.
At a Glance
| Rental Company | Best For |
|---|---|
| GO Rentals | Overall value & customer service |
| Apex Car Rentals | Budget-conscious travellers |
| Omega Rental Cars | Affordable long road trips |
| EZI Car Rental | Reliable all-round option |
| Hertz | Premium international service |
| Avis | Business & premium travellers |
| Budget | Value from a global brand |
| Europcar | International visitors |
| Enterprise | Familiar global brand |
Should You Book Directly or Use a Comparison Website?
One of the biggest questions travellers ask is whether it’s better to book directly with a rental company or use a comparison website.
Our advice?
For most visitors, it’s worth checking both.
Comparison websites make it easy to compare prices, vehicle types, insurance options and pickup locations across multiple companies without visiting each website individually. They’re often the quickest way to see which companies offer the best value for your travel dates.
At the same time, it’s worth checking the rental company’s own website too, as occasional promotions or loyalty discounts can sometimes offer additional savings.
💡 Our Tip
Before making a booking, compare prices, insurance options and customer reviews across several providers. Spending just a few extra minutes comparing options can often save a surprising amount of money.
How We Compared These Rental Companies
As New Zealand locals, we’ve seen these companies operating across the country for many years.
This guide combines our local knowledge with customer reviews, traveller experiences, company information and each operator’s reputation within New Zealand’s tourism industry.
While we haven’t personally hired vehicles from every company featured here, our goal is to provide an honest overview that helps you choose the rental company best suited to your trip—not simply recommend one overall winner.
After all, the best company for a two-week family holiday may be completely different from the best choice for a solo traveller on a tight budget.
Why Hire a Rental Car in New Zealand?
Although campervans are incredibly popular, hiring a car is often the better choice for many visitors.
Rental cars are generally:
- More affordable than campervans.
- Easier to drive on New Zealand’s winding roads.
- Simpler to park in towns and cities.
- More fuel efficient.
- Perfect if you’re staying in hotels, holiday parks or Airbnb accommodation.
Many travellers also combine a rental car with organised day tours, giving them the flexibility of independent travel while still enjoying iconic experiences like Milford Sound or Hobbiton.
1. GO Rentals
🏆 Best For
Travellers looking for excellent customer service, modern vehicles and an outstanding all-round experience.
Overview
GO Rentals has become one of New Zealand’s most highly regarded locally owned rental car companies.
With convenient airport locations, modern vehicles and consistently positive customer feedback, they’ve built a strong reputation among both international visitors and New Zealand travellers.
Their fleet includes everything from compact city cars through to larger SUVs, making them suitable for couples, families and longer road trips.
What Travellers Like
- Excellent customer service.
- Modern, well-maintained vehicles.
- Convenient airport locations.
- Helpful local advice.
- Straightforward booking process.
Things to Consider
- Prices can sometimes be slightly higher than the cheapest budget operators.
- Popular vehicle types often book out during peak summer.
Our Local Perspective
If someone asked us to recommend one rental company to start their search with, GO Rentals would almost certainly be on the list.
They’ve earned a strong reputation over many years, and their combination of reliable vehicles, friendly service and convenient locations makes them an excellent choice for first-time visitors exploring New Zealand.
👉 Compare prices and availability
2. Apex Car Rentals
💰 Best For
Budget-conscious travellers looking for reliable vehicles and excellent value.
Overview
Apex Car Rentals has been a popular choice with both New Zealanders and international visitors for many years. Known for competitive pricing and a straightforward rental experience, Apex offers a wide range of vehicles suitable for everything from city breaks to longer South Island road trips.
With locations throughout New Zealand and a strong reputation for value, it’s often one of the first companies travellers compare when planning a budget-friendly holiday.
What Travellers Like
- Competitive pricing.
- Good range of vehicles.
- Convenient airport locations.
- Straightforward booking process.
- Popular with both locals and visitors.
Things to Consider
- Fleets can be busy during peak holiday periods.
- Some travellers note that vehicles may not always be as new as premium brands.
Our Local Perspective
If keeping costs down is a priority, Apex is one of the first companies we’d compare. They’ve built a solid reputation over many years and often represent excellent value without sacrificing reliability.
3. Omega Rental Cars
🚗 Best For
Affordable long road trips and travellers looking for simple, reliable transport.
Overview
Omega Rental Cars is another well-established New Zealand company that’s particularly popular with travellers wanting dependable vehicles at reasonable prices.
Their fleet focuses on practical transport rather than luxury, making them a great choice for visitors planning to spend more time exploring than worrying about driving the latest model car.
What Travellers Like
- Excellent value.
- Friendly customer service.
- Reliable vehicles.
- Good choice for longer holidays.
- Transparent pricing.
Things to Consider
- Vehicles may be older than some premium competitors.
- Smaller luxury vehicle selection.
Our Local Perspective
We’ve met plenty of travellers who have happily explored New Zealand with Omega. If you’re planning a two or three-week road trip and simply want a reliable car that represents good value, they’re well worth considering.
4. EZI Car Rental
⭐ Best For
Travellers wanting a dependable, well-established New Zealand rental company.
Overview
EZI Car Rental has become one of New Zealand’s best-known locally operated rental companies, with branches at many major airports throughout the country.
They offer everything from compact city cars through to larger SUVs and people movers, making them suitable for a wide variety of travellers.
What Travellers Like
- Modern fleet.
- Convenient airport locations.
- Wide range of vehicle sizes.
- Helpful staff.
- Easy collection and return process.
Things to Consider
- Prices can sometimes be higher than budget operators.
- Premium vehicles may book out during busy periods.
Our Local Perspective
EZI sits nicely between budget and premium providers. If you’re looking for a modern vehicle from a well-established New Zealand company, they’re certainly worth comparing.
5. Hertz
💎 Best For
Premium rentals, business travellers and visitors who prefer internationally recognised brands.
Overview
Hertz is one of the world’s most recognised car rental companies and has an extensive network across New Zealand.
Travellers often choose Hertz because they’re already familiar with the brand and appreciate the consistency of service, particularly if they’ve rented with them elsewhere in the world.
What Travellers Like
- Modern vehicle fleet.
- Wide range of vehicle options.
- Convenient airport locations.
- International reputation.
- Loyalty programme benefits.
Things to Consider
- Often priced higher than local companies.
- Premium features usually come at a premium price.
Our Local Perspective
If you’ve had good experiences with Hertz overseas and prefer sticking with a familiar international brand, you’ll likely feel comfortable renting with them in New Zealand too. That said, it’s still worth comparing prices against some of the excellent locally owned companies before making your final decision.
6. Avis
🚘 Best For
Business travellers, premium rentals and visitors who prefer an internationally recognised brand.
Overview
Avis has operated in New Zealand for many years and is one of the country’s best-known international rental companies. With branches at major airports and city centres, it’s a popular choice for both holidaymakers and business travellers.
Its fleet includes everything from compact cars through to premium SUVs, making it suitable for a wide range of travel styles.
What Travellers Like
- Strong international reputation.
- Modern, well-maintained vehicles.
- Convenient airport locations.
- Wide choice of vehicle types.
- Loyalty programme benefits.
Things to Consider
- Often more expensive than local operators.
- Additional extras can increase the overall cost.
Our Local Perspective
Avis offers a dependable experience, particularly if you already use them elsewhere in the world. Even so, we’d still recommend comparing prices with some of New Zealand’s excellent local rental companies before making your decision.
7. Budget
💰 Best For
Travellers wanting the reassurance of a global brand while keeping costs under control.
Overview
As the name suggests, Budget focuses on offering competitive pricing while maintaining the reliability of a well-established international rental company.
They have branches throughout New Zealand and offer a wide range of vehicles suitable for road trips, family holidays and city travel.
What Travellers Like
- Competitive pricing.
- Convenient pickup locations.
- Reliable vehicles.
- Easy online booking.
- Trusted international brand.
Things to Consider
- Popular vehicle categories can sell out during peak travel periods.
- Insurance upgrades may add to the final cost.
Our Local Perspective
Budget often sits nicely between premium providers and local budget operators. They’re certainly worth including when comparing rental prices.
8. Europcar
🌏 Best For
International visitors looking for a familiar rental experience.
Overview
Europcar operates in many countries around the world and has established branches throughout New Zealand.
Their fleet includes everything from compact cars to larger SUVs, making them suitable for couples, families and business travellers alike.
What Travellers Like
- Wide international presence.
- Good range of vehicles.
- Convenient airport locations.
- Modern fleet.
- Easy online booking.
Things to Consider
- Prices can vary depending on season.
- Always compare insurance options carefully.
Our Local Perspective
If you’ve rented with Europcar elsewhere, you’ll know what to expect. They remain a solid option for travellers who value familiarity and convenience.
9. Enterprise
⭐ Best For
Travellers familiar with the Enterprise brand or looking for another trusted international option.
Overview
Enterprise is one of the world’s largest vehicle rental companies and has expanded its presence in New Zealand over recent years.
While it may not have quite the same recognition locally as some New Zealand-owned operators, many international visitors appreciate the consistency and professionalism the brand is known for.
What Travellers Like
- International reputation.
- Professional service.
- Modern vehicles.
- Easy booking process.
- Loyalty programme benefits.
Things to Consider
- Fewer locations than some competitors.
- Compare prices carefully against local providers.
Our Local Perspective
Enterprise provides another quality option for visitors who prefer renting through brands they already know. As always, we’d recommend comparing prices before booking, as local companies can sometimes offer excellent value.
Also Worth Considering
While the companies above are among the best known, New Zealand has plenty of smaller regional operators that also provide excellent service.
Depending on where you’re travelling, you may also come across companies such as:
- Snap Rentals
- Yes Rentals
- Mode Car Rentals
- Ace Rental Cars
- Rental Cars 247
Smaller companies can sometimes offer excellent value, particularly for longer hires or off-peak travel. As with any booking, take a few minutes to read recent customer reviews, compare what’s included and check the insurance options before making your decision.
🏆 Our Recommendations
Rather than choosing one overall winner, here’s who we’d recommend for different types of travellers.
🥇 Best Overall
GO Rentals
Excellent customer service, modern vehicles and a strong reputation.
💰 Best Budget Option
Apex Car Rentals
Great value without sacrificing reliability.
🚗 Best for Long Road Trips
Omega Rental Cars
Dependable, affordable and ideal for exploring New Zealand.
👨👩👧 Best for Families
GO Rentals
A modern fleet and a good range of larger vehicles make them a strong choice for family adventures.
💼 Best Premium Experience
Hertz
A trusted international brand with a wide selection of quality vehicles.
🌏 Best International Brand
Avis
Ideal for travellers who prefer sticking with brands they already know and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth hiring a car in New Zealand?
For most visitors, yes. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore beyond the main tourist centres and travel at your own pace.
Should I book my rental car before arriving?
We’d definitely recommend it, especially if you’re travelling during summer or school holidays. Booking early usually gives you a better choice of vehicles and often better prices.
Is it cheaper to book through a comparison website?
Often, yes. Comparison websites allow you to compare multiple companies quickly and can sometimes offer better deals than booking directly.
What size car do I need?
A compact or mid-size car is suitable for most couples, while families may appreciate the extra luggage space of an SUV or larger vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a rental car is one of the best ways to experience New Zealand’s spectacular scenery and hidden gems.
Whether you’re planning a short North Island getaway or an epic South Island road trip, choosing the right rental company can make your holiday smoother, more comfortable and often more affordable.
Take the time to compare prices, understand what’s included and choose the company that best suits your budget and travel style. A little research before booking can save money—and help ensure your New Zealand adventure gets off to the best possible start.
Continue Planning Your New Zealand Adventure
You might also find these guides helpful:
- Best Campervan Hire Companies in New Zealand
- Campervan vs Car Hire: Which Is Better?
- Driving in New Zealand: Everything Tourists Need to Know
- What to Pack for a New Zealand Road Trip
- Best Guided Tours in New Zealand
- First-Time Visitor’s Guide to New Zealand
- How Much Does a New Zealand Road Trip Cost? (Coming Soon)
Our Commitment to Honest Recommendations
Some of the links in this guide may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you choose to book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Our recommendations are based on local knowledge, independent research, traveller feedback and each company’s reputation within New Zealand’s tourism industry.
Our goal is simple: to help you find the rental car that’s right for your trip—not the one that pays the highest commission.
Happy travels, and enjoy exploring New Zealand!