Motoring around New Zealand allows visitors to see all the stunning sights the country has to offer, from protected forests to glaciers and fjords. Since being the backdrop for Middle Earth, New Zealand's ruggedly beautiful landscapes, enchanting pristine lakes and spectacular plains have been opened up to the world via a globally successful Lords of the Rings film. Car rental in New Zealand is a convenient and pleasurable way to enjoy this captivating country.

New Zealand has seven international airports, such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, which offer international arrival and departure services from major air carriers. Other smaller airports, such as those found in Dunedin and Hamilton, are limited to managing flights from Australia and Fiji only. Each region of the country also accommodates several ports, which move passengers, vehicles and merchandise by sea.

The country has limited public transport, which makes New Zealand car hire the most common method of getting about. The country's major cities offer comfortable luxury bus transport, but these are limited to specific tour packages. Rail routes are limited to suburban itineraries, and although ferries play a major role in public transportation around the country, land travel is best done by car.

A current and valid driving licence and an international driving permit are required to drive around the country. Tourists may convert their licence or apply for a New Zealand driving permit, which has a validity of one year. New Zealand drivers use the left hand side of the road, and as most roads traverse over hilly areas, your journey may take longer than expected. Compare cheap car hire in New Zealand with us to get the best rates.

The snow-capped Mount Taranaki is home to several waterfalls, ski slopes and bird species and is surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies. Hawk's Bay hosts concerts, festivals, wine tasting events and horse racing. Drive through the hobbit shires in Matamata on the North Island and view the nearby Kaimai Ranges.