All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
New Zealand features some of the best scenic drives in the world. And that is why we recommend travelling through the country by car. This gives you the flexibility and freedom to explore places a campervan cannot reach. We also strongly recommend a relaxed travel pace. With every turn of the road, New Zealand's landscape changes.
Meet Kieran, your New Zealand travel specialist
"After living in New Zealand for four years, one of the things that really stuck with me was the close relationship many New Zealanders have with the outdoors. I enjoy providing travellers with an authentic experience of the unique culture and varied landscapes on offer. I take pride in building you a bespoke itinerary and look forward to helping you make the most of your time in this fantastic country!"
Contact Kieran
How do I travel around New Zealand?
Our cars are less than 6 months old and we offer full insurance. This means more time to soak up the incredible views of New Zealand. We know many scenic drives that you wouldn’t normally find in a guidebook. Discover the real New Zealand, through the eyes of the locals.
Which sized car do you need?
A compact, medium or large SUV? We can help you make this important decision. Depending on your situation, this will impact your choice. Whatever the decision, discover New Zealand at a relaxed pace. Drive safe in a reliable SUV and be amazed at each turn of the road.
Good to know
Do you wonder if you should self-drive or travel without a car? If you travel by car, it brings more possibilities. You can visit places away from the mainstream. And stay at accommodations with local hosts, who are proud of their land and love to tell you all about it. However, if you don’t want to drive, we can still organise a great holiday for you.
Good to know
We work closely with our car rental companies and have a personalised agreement to enable our clients to travel on gravel roads with full insurance. This means you can drive the most scenic routes, Down Under, with no worries at all. Enjoy the views!
Compact SUV
A compact SUV gives you the flexibility to drive comfortably anywhere in the country, at a relaxed pace. Maximal fuel efficiency, affordable and comfortable to drive. The perfect size for two. Our rental cars have extra ground clearance. Easy to get in and out. Better views.
A compact SUV is also perfect if you are travelling with a group of friends and would like to enjoy your own activities during the trip. This allows you to be independent as a group and go wherever you want. Especially if you are travelling with a larger group of friends.
Get inspired for your dream holiday
Would you like to discover more about New Zealand? Let Kieran inspire you on a virtual journey through the country and answer all of your questions.
Join Kieran at an online presentation
Medium SUV
Are you travelling with another couple? Or your best friend? Whatever your situation, a medium car offers more space for you and your luggage. And with good fuel efficiency, it is an affordable vehicle. With extra ground clearance means you can drive along gravel and unpaved roads.
Good to know
We plan to encourage electric driving by placing a charging station at all of our local accommodations. Since our routes between the accommodations are never too far, we can ask rental companies to offer electric cars.
Good to know
Petrol stations can be found nationwide and fuel prices do differ at different stations. The average petrol cost per litre is around NZD$2.30. If you are filling up at a BP, why not try a delicious pie. Local favourites are the mince and cheese or butter chicken pie.
Large SUV
A large SUV offers you plenty of space for you and your luggage. And with a higher driving position, you can enjoy improved visibility and of course, that means the best viewing experience. Drive along gravel and unpaved roads. An ideal car to explore New Zealand.
"State Highway 6 from Greymouth to Westport on the West Coast of the South Island is stunning, especially during sunset."
Ben, Travel specialist
Did you know?
New Zealand has some of the best scenic drives in the world. Although hiking is a must-do, driving the scenic routes should also be on the list!
Did you know?
New Zealand’s land area is approximately 270,000 km2, only slightly larger than the United Kingdom. We recommend starting your adventure in the South Island. Travelling for a minimum of 6 weeks enables you to see the best locations and hidden gems of both the North and South Island.
Our hire cars include insurance with $0 excess as standard. Please note: there are other insurance limitations to consider.
A campervan trip around New Zealand? Yes or no?
Are you thinking about travelling around New Zealand in a campervan? Here are some things to consider, to help you… read more
New Zealand’s 10 best scenic drives
New Zealand is home to the world’s most stunning scenic drives. Be amazed at every turn. Picturesque towns.… read more
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY?
Suggested journeys to New Zealand
New Zealand is a country that is filled with endless natural wonders. Go on a journey and discover the beauty of… read more
The only way forward
Sustainable travel
Travel is the world's largest industry and one that does a lot of good for a lot of people in the world. It… read more
Useful facts
Renting a car DownUnder
What do I need to rent a car?
- A MasterCard, Visa card or American Express in the driver's name.
- An international drivers licence.
- A national drivers licence.
What do I need to take into account when renting a car?
- A deposit will be held on your credit card for each rental car.
- You will sign a rental agreement when you collect the car. By doing so, you agree to the terms and conditions of the car company. Please read these in advance. You will find the terms and conditions in your travel documents.
Driving DownUnder
If you hold a valid driver's license in English, you can drive in New Zealand and Australia for up to 12 months while travelling as a tourist. In both countries, you drive on the left side of the road, just like the United Kingdom!
The speed limit in both countries is generally 50 km/hr in residential areas and 100 km/hr on motorways and open roads. Be aware, during school hours there are strict speed limits. We advise paying close attention to all road signs.
How do I pay for toll roads in New Zealand?
There are three toll roads: north of Auckland on State Highway 1, the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road and the Takitimu Drive Toll Road also near Tauranga. You can pay the toll charge at the beginning of the toll road or online, within five days of driving on the toll road. You will need the car registration number to do this.
Ferry Crossing
Do you need to cross over to the other side? Travel on a ferry across the waters between the North and South Island. A journey that is renowned for being one of the best ferry rides in the world. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, it is truly one of New Zealand’s most iconic experiences.
The Interislander is the ferry service between Picton and Wellington. It is a 92-kilometre crossing and takes approximately three hours. The Interislander sails through the Marlborough Sounds and crosses the Cook Strait. There is a restaurant onboard and you can make use of WiFi.
Parks in New Zealand
With so much nature, it shouldn’t be surprising that New Zealand has many green and spacious parks to enjoy. The perfect place to stop and take a break. Some parks offer picnic tables, free barbecues, toilet amenities, shaded and undercovered areas. And more. Savour a picnic. Fire up the barbecue. Take a short nature walk. Spot wildlife including a large assortment of birds. And more.
New Zealand’s road rules
It is recommended to follow all speed limits and road rules whilst driving through New Zealand. Here are a few simple rules. And remember all signage/ distances is based on kilometres.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a crime in New Zealand.
- The driver and all passengers must wear a seatbelt.
- It is not allowed to hold your mobile phone whilst driving.
- It is illegal to pass other cars where there is a yellow line. The yellow line indicates that it's too dangerous to overtake. You will see this instead of the white line that usually marks the middle of the road.
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey