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Car Hire North Island New Zealand

GO the distance with an affordable car rental!

Two women walking barefoot on a beach path with towels and bags, enjoying a sunny coastal day
White SUV parked by a mountain lake with two people enjoying the scenic view

More Reasons to GO

Easy pickup, unlimited kilometres and friendly local support.
Modern Hybrid and EV options.

North Island Car Hire Locations

From baggage claim to car lane, get GOing in a stress-free North Island car hire as soon as you land from domestic, Australian or international flights.

With car rental branches at all major airports and downtown Auckland, GO Rentals are the Kiwi local experts you need to accelerate your New Zealand trip.

Renowned for its diverse landscapes, ranging from unique geothermal areas to breathtaking coastlines, the North Island is an ideal destination for both adventurers and those seeking relaxation. It's truly stunning. We're not biased, we're just passionate local Kiwis, full of travel tips and insider knowledge to help you make the most of your trip.

Shift gears and check out:

Map of New Zealand

Auckland City

Address: 165 Beach Road, Auckland City, Auckland, 1010

Office open hours: 08:00 - 17:00, 7 days a week

Pick up & Drop off: 08:00 - 17:00, 7 days a week.

Drop into the driver's seat and dash through downtown Auckland with our convenient city branch. Our off-airport location in Auckland CBD is open 7 days a week, so you can easily switch from the overcrowded bus to a stress-free car hire. Breeze the city streets in a compact car or swap for a large SUV to cruise the stunning scenic drives, like the rugged coastal views of the Waitakere Ranges.

Auckland Airport

Address: 3 Joseph Hammond Place, Auckland Airport, Mangere, Auckland 2022

Office open hours: 07:30 - 18:00, 7 days a week

Terminal Location: We are a few minutes from the terminal, but we have a pick-up service. Call us or request a shuttle in our App!

Pick up & Drop off: 5am - 1:30am pick-up, 24 hrs a day drop-off, 7 days a week.

From runway to highway, our Auckland airport branch is perfectly located to ensure your self-drive trip starts as soon as you land. With a shuttle service and 24-hour drop-off available, a stress-free car rental is waiting for you after a domestic or long-haul flight. Cruise one of New Zealand's most popular cities in a fuel-saving hybrid or accelerate your road trip with a one-way rental across the North Island.

Waiheke Island

Address: Unit 4, Matiatia Wharf, 6 Ocean View Road, Waiheke Island, Auckland, 1081

Office open hours: 08:00 - 17:00, 7 days a week

Pick up & Drop off: 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

Waiheke Island is the most ideal self-drive trip. Think tranquil coastal coves, breathtaking waterfalls and award-winning vineyards. With many jaw-dropping views off the beaten track, you will want to jump into a modern car hire and experience the freedom of the Waiheke road. Our location is right at the Matiatia ferry terminal, so you can go from deck to driver's seat in no time at all.

Wellington Airport

Address: Terminal Building, Stewart Duff Drive, Rongotai, Wellington 6022

Office open hours: 07:00 - 01:00, 7 days a week

Terminal Location: Located inside the terminal at the rental car hall.

Pick up & Drop off: 07:00 - 01:00, 7 days a week.

Wellington is located at the bottom of the North Island and is the gateway between the North and South Islands. All of our vehicles can be taken on the ferry, so you can hop between islands with ease. Pick up a fuel-saving hybrid and experience the freedom of the open road. Roll through the surrounding picturesque country and take a rest break in an iconic Martinborough winery, or cruise onto the ferry for a South Island adventure.

Why GO with us?

  • FREE basic car rental insurance

    Our basic insurance cover is included in the cost of every car hire with two upgraded insurance options available!

  • One-way car rentals

    We can organise one-way rentals with pick-up in one location and drop-off in another. Stick to your dream itinerary without worrying about circling back.

  • Offset carbon emissions

    In partnership with CarbonClick, you can choose to offset the carbon emission of your GO Rentals road trip.

  • 24hr AA roadside assistance

    All GO Rentals hire cars have access to the AA 24-hour mechanical breakdown assistance and our Tesla EVs have access to Tesla Roadside Assistance.

  • GO App

    With our GO Rentals App, you can book a car, check in faster and even control your Tesla car functions, right from the palm of your hand.

GO Rentals Benefits

Total Road Care

A comprehensive $3 per day fee ensures your journey is simple and stress-free, we include the following services:

  • Roadside Assistance

    Complimentary callout service for ALL types of breakdowns.

  • Government Road Taxes

    Covers registration costs, safety inspections and road user charges.

  • Toll Road Freedom

    Enjoy free passage on all toll roads, we cover all costs including admin fees.

With Total Road Care, we handle all the essentials so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Terms and Conditions

GO Rentals Customer Quick Facts

  • Minimum Age: You must be 21 years old to cruise in a standard GO Rentals hire car and 25 to experience the Tesla Model Y hire car. Good news: we do not apply a young driver surcharge!

  • Maximum Age: There's no upper age limit to GO with us.

  • Licence Rule: All drivers need to be 21 or over (25 for EVs) and hold a full driver licence. We can't accept learner, restricted or provisional licences.

  • New Zealand Temporary Licence: Bring photo ID as well as your temporary licence.

  • Foreign Licence Rule: Overseas full driver licences are accepted. If your licence isn't in English, you'll also need an English translation from an NZTA-approved translator.

  • Credit Card Requirement: A credit card is required for bookings with the Basic or Assured insurance options that require a bond deposit. A debit card is acceptable for the upgraded Peace of Mind or some Assured insurance options without a bond requirement.

  • Additional Drivers: Simply pop in to any of our branches and show us your driver's licence to add you onto a booking.

  • Family needs: You can hire baby capsules, child seats and booster seats for your little ones! Add them onto your booking quote and we will fit them ready for you to GO.

  • Documents for collection: You will need your valid driver licence and your debit or credit card in your name. Note that a credit card is required for bookings with the Basic or Assured insurance option that requires a bond deposit.

North Island Car Rental Deals

Cruise the best deals and relocations for an affordable car rental. Make the most of your New Zealand adventure for less with GO.

Customer Reviews from our North Island Locations

Qualmark Gold

Qualmark is New Zealand tourism’s official quality assurance organisation, providing a trusted guide to quality travel experiences. In 2023, GO Rentals achieved Qualmark Gold which recognises the best sustainable tourism businesses in New Zealand, with the delivery of exceptional customer experiences an integral part of everything they do.

A Gold Sustainable Tourism Award identifies those businesses leading the way in making the New Zealand tourism industry a world class sustainable visitor destination. When you see a business displaying the Qualmark Gold symbol you can be assured that the business has met stringent quality, environmental, economic, social and health & safety criteria - earning New Zealand tourism’s official quality mark.

Learn more at qualmark.co.nz

Qualmark gold award logo

Hop the Hotspots on the North Island

Zip through the city streets and swerve through the winding country roads in an easy North Island rental car. With natural thermal spa baths, jaw-dropping national parks and stunning coastlines, you can ditch the servo stops and switch to natural beauty rest stops.

Our passionate team on the North Island loves exploring the diverse landscapes. You can easily cruise in a car hire and hit all of our favourite stops to see why we love it:

  • People relaxing in a hot pool dug into the sand at Hot Water Beach

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Have you ever dug your own natural hot pool on a beach? Now you can! Take your car hire for a spin to Hot Water Beach in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, and you can experience the truly unique geothermal springs bubbling up from the sand. With pristine turquoise waters, white sand beaches and panoramic summit hikes, the peninsula is a must-see place for anyone who wants to be blown away by the natural beauty of New Zealand.

  • Hobbit house with a round door in a green hill at Hobbiton, New Zealand

    Hobbiton Movie Set

    It may just be a simple Hobbit hole to some, but in the words of J.R.R. Tolkien, Hobbit holes mean comfort. Drop by the preserved Hobbiton movie sets to experience the magic of The Shire, the Green Dragon Inn and Bagshot Row, all looking exactly as they did in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Situated in Matamata, you can get from Auckland to Hobbiton in just 2 hours. Check out our Auckland to Napier road trip for unmissable destinations.

  • Couple admiring traditional Māori carvings in a lush Rotorua forest

    Rotorua

    Discover the stunning volcanic landscapes of Rotorua, one of the most diverse and captivating destinations on New Zealand’s North Island. Pick up a rental car and take the scenic drive from Auckland to Tauranga, making time to explore Rotorua and its remarkable surroundings. Whether you're unwinding in a natural mud bath or marvelling at ancient geothermal springs, Rotorua makes an unforgettable road trip stop. We especially love the rich celebration of Māori history and culture throughout the city. Be sure to book a cultural experience to dive deeper into its heritage.

  • Hiker looking at emerald lakes and volcanic mountains on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

    Tongariro National Park

    New Zealand's oldest national park should be on everyone's bucket list, fact. Whether you want to challenge yourself to the 19.4km Alpine Crossing trek or you want to take a relaxing chairlift up Mount Ruapehu to New Zealand's highest cafe, Tongariro National Park's outstanding beauty will blow you away. With the impressive "Mount Doom" from The Lord of the Rings (Mount Ngauruhoe), lush native forest and crater lakes, there is always a breathtaking view to feast your eyes on.

  • People kayaking on clear blue water near a sandy beach and forest

    Bay of Islands

    Head north of Auckland to discover the spectacular subtropical area of the North Island. With over 144 islands surrounded by pristine turquoise water, the Bay of Islands is a jaw-dropping location for both locals and visitors. Swap the driver's seat for a plane seat on a scenic flight to really take in the incredible landscape. Then hop between the islands for charming towns, lush bushwalks and beautiful marine life.

  • People enjoying a view of Auckland city and Sky Tower from a hilltop

    Auckland

    As New Zealand's largest city, Auckland is the perfect place to zip through the streets and experience Kiwi city culture. Head up the Skytower for panoramic city views or get some fresh air with a hike up Mangawhau/Mount Eden volcanic dome for city and harbour views. With a hire car, Auckland is the perfect base to explore the freedom of the open road on the North Island.

Travel Through Our Customer's Lens

We love that our rental cars become part of your travel memories! Submit a snap happy photo to our snap happy competition and be in with a chance to receive up to $500 off your booking!

New Zealand is best explored in a reliable car. Don't take our word for it, check out the happy customers revv'd up about their experience:

  • Two people posing in front of a Hobbit house from The Lord of the Rings movie set

    Eugen

    This year my Wife and me realised our once in a lifetime journey to NZ. One of the most impressing locations was the filmset of Hobbiton. We enjoyed the atmosphere of Frodo and his Friends. Our GO Rentals car made it possible to reach every point of interest on the whole island. An unforgettable experience. Thanks to whole NZ.

  • View of the coastline and ocean with a parked car on the roadside

    Safire

    Blue Betty, our trusted Yaris hybrid, seamlessly guided us through North Island's wonders, coast to coast beaches, glow worm caves, towering kauri trees & tranquil hot pools. As we neared the tip where the Tasman & Pacific meet, Blue Betty proudly overlooked the Cape where we parked up & wandered down to the lighthouse. With her reliable navigation & smooth hybrid performance, every mile was an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's lush landscapes.

  • Rocky stream flowing through alpine landscape with a snow-capped mountain in the background

    Sarah

    We had a great 6-day tour of the North Island with our GO Rentals car - including this day trip to Tongariro National Park!

  • SUV parked at sunset near a rural fence

    Steven

    Time and time again GO Rentals amazes me with the quality of vehicles they have to offer and kind service making my trips around New Zealand from up north and down to the south an unforgettable experience!!

One-Way Rentals

Self-drive trips should offer you freedom and flexibility, which is why our one-way rental car hires allow you to explore without rushing back to our branch. Whether you want to drive the full North Island or make it into an epic New Zealand holiday, you can pick up your car in one location and drop it off in another, no return journey needed.

Travel from Auckland to Wellington or even hop islands from Wellington to Dunedin in a one-way car hire. You take care of the map route, we'll take care of the vehicle relocation.

With unlimited kilometres, free basic insurance and 24-hour roadside assistance, you're all set to hit the road full throttle.

North Island Car Rental FAQs

Do I need insurance to rent a car in New Zealand?

Yes, you do, but the good news is, you don’t have to sort it out yourself! By law, all car rental companies in New Zealand must include basic insurance with every rental. This covers:

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)

  • Theft Protection

At GO Rentals, we go the extra mile by also covering windscreen and tyre damage, as well as third-party damage and injuries. Every GO Rentals booking comes with our GO Basic insurance included. Want extra peace of mind? You can choose to upgrade to GO Assured or GO Peace of Mind cover for an additional fee, depending on your vehicle.

So you can hit the road knowing you’re covered!

What documents do I need to hire a car in New Zealand?

To rent with GO Rentals in New Zealand, you’ll need a physical payment card and a valid driver’s licence.

Payment cards:

If you choose GO Basic or GO Assured (with a bond), you’ll need a credit card for the security bond.

If you select GO Assured (no bond) or GO Peace of Mind, a debit card is fine.

Driver licence requirements:

All drivers need to be 21 or over (25 for EVs) and hold a full driver licence. We can’t accept learner, restricted or provisional licences.

New Zealand Full Licence: Just bring your full licence, easy as.

New Zealand Temporary Licence: Bring your temporary licence plus photo ID.

Overseas Licence: Overseas full driver licences are accepted. If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll also need an English translation from an NZTA-approved translator.

Just bring the right card and the right licence, and you’re good to GO!

Can you hire a car in NZ with an Australian licence?

Yes, you can hire a car in New Zealand with an Australian licence. With a full Australian licence you can drive here for up to 12 months from when you arrive, after which you’ll need to switch to a New Zealand licence.

To hire with GO Rentals, every driver needs a full driver licence. We can’t accept learner, restricted or provisional licences, including Australian P1 and P2 licences, even though they’re legal to drive on in New Zealand.

How old do you have to be to rent a car on the North Island?

The minimum age to rent a car in New Zealand varies by company. Some allow rentals from 18, while many set the bar at 21 or even 25. This applies to both locals and visitors, and younger drivers may face restrictions on vehicle types and extra “young driver” fees.

Every driver on your booking needs a full driver licence. You’ll need to be 21 or over, or 25 or over to hire an EV.

We can’t accept learner, restricted or provisional licences. That includes New Zealand restricted licences and Australian P1 and P2 licences.

If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll also need an English translation from an NZTA-approved translator. Bring your physical licence card with you to pick up.

Is it easy to drive on the North Island, New Zealand?

While Auckland and Wellington have well-maintained city roads and motorways, many roads between locations are two-lane highways with winding, narrow roads in rural locations. The majority of roads are sealed, so a 2WD hire is more than okay to get around the top locations, but you should take extra care to know the roads if this is your first time driving in New Zealand:

  • Remember Kiwi's drive on the left!

  • Passing lanes are occasional, so plan extra time to get to your destination.

  • The North Island's weather can change quickly and can get icy in winter, especially in mountainous areas like Tongariro National Park. Check the weather conditions before setting off and pack snow chains for extra caution.

What is the most scenic route in the North Island, New Zealand?

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most epic scenic routes on the North Island. From Auckland to Hawkes Bay, this 340km picturesque route meanders through incredible landscapes. Stretch your legs in the beautiful Bay of Plenty, the unique coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, and glimpse marine life through Whakatāne and Whale Island.

Can I take my rental car from the North to the South Island?

Yes, you can take your GO Rentals car on the Cook Strait Ferry between the North and South Island.

There are two ferry companies that operate between the North and South Islands, known as Interislander and Bluebridge. Simply book in advance on their websites or ask our GO Rentals team to secure your ticket.

What to do on the North Island in the Summer?

The North Island turns into an outdoor playground in summer. With natural wonders, extremely beautiful beaches and award-winning wineries, you can take full advantage of the longer daytime hours.

Take a cruise through the exquisite Bay of Islands for swimming, dolphin watching or kayaking...or just straight up tanning on the beach. For a more challenging pace, take in the clear sweeping views on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in the summer sun.

Try our NZ road trip planner to get tips for an epic North Island road trip.

What is the best thing to do on the North Island in Winter?

In winter, you can visit New Zealand's only skiable volcano! How awesome is that? Mount Ruapehu turns into a winter playground with ski fields at Whakapapa and Turoa suitable for both beginners and snow thrill seekers.

After gnawing on the fresh powder, take a relaxing winter trip to Rotorua for a natural mud bath. The geothermal area offers hot pool spas, exfoliating mud and breathtaking winter landscapes.

Pick up a ski car rental and hit the road for an unforgettable North Island winter road trip!