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One-Way Car Rental Auckland to Dunedin

GO Rentals one-way road trip: Auckland to Dunedin Car Rentals

Planning a scenic drive? An epic road trip? Then you need a car you can trust to take on the journey.

Fortunately, you’ll easily find the perfect vehicle to explore New Zealand with GO Rentals. Enjoy transparent pricing, unlimited kilometres, and a host of other highlights when you choose our car rental options.

We even have rentals available for one-way trips, allowing you to make your drive without worrying about backtracking to return the car. The Auckland to Dunedin trip is just one great example of how you can make a stress-free trip with GO Rentals.

Why GO One-Way Auckland to Dunedin?

With GO Rentals, you can enjoy the freedom of the road while travelling from Auckland to Dunedin without the hassle of retracing your steps.

Our convenient Auckland to Dunedin car rental service allows you to pick up your vehicle in Auckland and drop it off in Dunedin. We have GO Rentals branches in both cities, so no matter where you start, we’ve got you covered. With no need to worry about returning the car, you can make your road trip across New Zealand effortless and flexible.

Whether you're exploring the energetic streets of Auckland, the entirety of the South Island, or everything in between, the vehicles available through our leading car rental company will let you cruise at your own pace.

Plus, with unlimited kilometres, 24-hour roadside assistance included in our Total Road Care package, and a fleet of sustainable vehicles, your journey is bound to be both eco-friendly and stress-free.

Ready to explore the best of New Zealand?

Check out our One-Way Rental page for more details.

Why GO Auckland to Dunedin 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.

Learn more

How to Rent a Car with GO Rentals

GO Rentals makes New Zealand car rentals easy.

Enter your itinerary details, including your pick-up and drop-off locations, and click "Find my car" to get started.

We offer one-way rental vehicles from our 9 locations across New Zealand, including Auckland and Dunedin, so that you can travel at your own pace and convenience.

Please note that a one-way rental fee may apply, ranging from $100 to $1,000, depending on vehicle availability and the distance between your pick-up and drop-off locations. The exact cost will be clearly shown in your booking summary before checkout.

Our minimum one-way car hire period varies between 1 and 7 days, depending on the driving distance. If the availability on our website doesn’t match your needs, give us a call—we’ll do our best to accommodate your trip.

Get the best value and excellent customer service so you can enjoy your Kiwi adventure with GO Rentals hire cars!

One-Way Car Rental Customer 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 3 and Tesla Model Y hire cars. Good news: we do not apply a young driver surcharge!
  • Maximum Age: There is no age limit to GO with us! As long as you have a valid licence, we welcome you with open arms.
  • New Zealand Licence Rule: Temporary, restricted and full driver's licences are permitted to rent some vehicles with GO. Photo identification is required if hiring a vehicle with a New Zealand temporary licence. Electric vehicles cannot be hired on a restricted licence.
  • Foreign Licence Rule: Valid, full driver's licences are accepted from overseas travellers but must be translated to English and NZTA approved. Foreign learner's and provisional licences are not valid for renting with GO.
  • 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.

Cruise Auckland to Dunedin with convenient pick-up and drop-off

You can take any GO Rentals vehicle on the Cook Strait Ferry between the North and South Island, which is perfect for a stress-free one-way road trip. We have 9 car rental branches spread evenly throughout New Zealand, in the major destinations. You’re never far from a GO Rentals car.

Map of New Zealand

GO Rentals App for a ridiculously simple pick-up and drop-off

Get your journey started as quickly as possible thanks to our speedy check-in. Manage your booking online or download our app to get through the check-in process and on the road faster.

Image of a GO Rentals branch showing its self-service kiosks
The GO Experience (1:58)

What our customers have to say

Auckland to Dunedin One Way Trip Ideas

Start the engine on your road trip from Auckland to Dunedin and explore the breathtaking sights of New Zealand along the way.


There is no need to worry about logistics at the end of your one-way journey. One of our helpful team members will be waiting at our Dunedin branch at the Dunedin Airport to help wrap up your trip.


In the meantime, this journey offers it all and in a wealth of variety; mountain landscapes, lakes, and activities for thrill-seekers abound!


So, delve into eight essential stops along the New Zealand coastline and through key attractions to include in your personalised trip planner, all to make your adventure even more memorable.

  • Auckland

    Start your journey in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and the perfect place to stock up your road trip supplies.


    Before hitting the road, take the time to explore what the city has to offer. Keep things authentic with a visit to the Auckland Harbour Bridge, take in panoramic views from the Sky Tower, or relax at the nearby Waiheke Island with its wineries and beaches.


    If you have the time, be sure to soak it all in before you begin heading south. There’s a reason why many road trips start from this sizeable city; while we may have key recommendations to visit, you can truly make your own adventure.

  • Hamilton (131 km - 1 hr 35 m)

    Gently nestled by the banks of the iconic Waikato River, Hamilton is a picturesque yet lively town that’s always welcoming to visitors. After all, the lush and award-winning Hamilton Gardens are just the tip of the town’s adventurous iceberg.


    While only a short drive from Auckland, many travellers choose to make a stop to enjoy the gourmet bakeries and colourful public art. Grab a few bites to enjoy later on and soak in the views before hitting the road once more.

  • Taupo (153 km - 2 hr 1 m)

    Making the most of the Northern Island, your journey can next lead to Taupo. Another town based by a water source, only this pitstop will afford you clear views of Lake Taupo and the surrounding mountains.


    The outdoor sorts will love to take on the more challenging hiking trails that lead to Huka Falls. However, you can also take it easy by exploring the outskirts of the lake and what New Zealand’s unique nature has to offer.


    Winter or summer, Taupo offers natural beauty year-round.

  • Wellington (373 km - 4 hr 39m)

    As you head further south, be sure to make a stop in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. It is not just the capital of the country, but also the capital of culture, offering a wealth of sights to explore and enjoy at your own pace.


    Here, you can visit the famous Te Papa Museum and learn everything you need to know about the area. The rich history of the land is readily available and waiting for you to explore.


    Alternatively, take a ride on the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views of the city and the iconic Wellington Harbour. While the high altitude may bring some chill, it also brings a sense of wonder few can match.


    Known for its arts scene and picturesque waterfront, Wellington is a must-see before crossing to the South Island.

  • Picton (100 km - 4 hr 5 m)

    Load up your car on the local ferry and make the voyage to the South Island. There, Picton awaits a short drive away, a quaint town located in the Marlborough Sounds; the vast collection of sea-drowned land that green islands arise from.


    With this town as your base, you can spend as much time as you’d like making each day a new adventure. Take scenic walks, jump on a boat ride, or explore the surrounding forests and beaches.


    All in all, it’s the perfect spot to start your exploration of the South Island and all it has to offer.

  • Christchurch (336 km - 4 hr 19 m)

    Another sprawling city full of cultural highlights, Christchurch is a well-known pit stop in the South Island for a good reason.


    Indulge with a dizzying array of 5-star restaurants and high-end boutiques around every corner. Alternatively, you can keep things simpler by finding out what gems the local cafes and artistic shops have hidden within.


    Make your own path and discover a wealth of delights throughout the city.

  • Oamaru (248 km - 3 hr 12 m)

    Some of the country’s oldest public gardens are scattered throughout this town, matching the welcoming streets crowded with Victorian architecture. All in all, Oamaru is a place of pride in both heritage and history.


    With a wide mix of cultures and trends, you can discover delights everywhere around town. Walk about the Victorian Precinct and marvel at the retro-futurism of Steampunk HQ, a museum unlike any other.


    For those who want to kick up their feet after a long day of exploring, there are plenty of bars, breweries and artisanal locations to sample at. Try the taste of real New Zealand whiskey before your journey comes to an end.

  • Dunedin

    Finally, reach your final stop of Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and stunning natural surroundings.


    There is no end to what you can explore in this city. Visit Larnach Castle or explore the Otago Peninsula for incredible wildlife. No matter the weather that day or the season at hand, there’s always something new to do.


    This charming city allows you to end your one-way trip from Auckland to Dunedin with a bang.

Auckland to Dunedin through the lens of our Snap Happy Customers

We love that our stress-free rental cars do more than get you from A to B. They become part of your travel memories, and we want to see them!

Submit a happy photo to our Snap Happy Photo Competition and be in with a chance to receive up to $500 back off your booking!

New Zealand is best explored in a modern, reliable car. But don't take our word for it. Cruise through the happy customers revv'd up about their experience:

  • Donna

    This photo was taken from our stay in Devonport. Our experience with GO Rentals was fantastic and allowed us to explore areas outside of Auckland, such as Mount Maunganui and Waihi Beach.

  • Poi

    Memorable trip with family to Taupo and Whakapapa Village. Many thanks to GO Rentals for having a wide range of 7-seater hybrid vehicles.

  • Chayan

    We travelled to every nook and corner, and it was only possible because of the car provided by GO Rentals.

  • Jan-Hendrik

    Normally, you have a great view of the Lanarch Castle, but on this morning, it was super foggy, which made it an incredible atmosphere. Due to that atmosphere, we felt it was the perfect spot for our reliable travel partner! :)

One-Way Rental Car Options

With a great selection of affordable vehicles, GO Rentals is ready to get you on the road for a one-way trip. Choose from 4-wheel drives and SUVs for ski or family trips to luxury electric vehicles for a stylish self-drive trip. Put your itinerary details in to see our vehicle availability and start planning your GO trip.

Image of the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid

Small cars

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Electric vehicles

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Image of a Hyundai iMax People Carrier parked up at a New Zealand vineyard with rows of vines in the background

Hybrid cars

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Image of the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Large cars / SUVs

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4 Wheel drives

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Image of a Hyundai iMax People Carrier parked up at a New Zealand vineyard with rows of vines in the background

Van or people carriers

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Car rental accessories

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Driving in Auckland and Dunedin

Traffic and Parking in Auckland and Dunedin

Auckland's traffic can be quite busy, especially during peak hours. With congested roads around the central business district, it’s best to plan if you're travelling through the city during rush hour.

The city also offers plenty of paid parking options in the city centre, with a few free spots available further out. Expect to pay for parking in most locations, though there are free parking options on the outskirts.

In Dunedin City, you’ll find more affordable parking options, including some free spaces around the city centre and along quieter streets. This makes it easier to park in a more relaxed environment.

Additionally, Dunedin generally has lighter traffic when compared to the major city of Auckland, but surprises can still happen.

Toll Roads and Road Conditions

When driving your rental car in New Zealand, it’s important to be aware of the toll roads in certain areas. While most roads are free to use, you’ll still encounter the occasional toll in specific locations, particularly around Auckland and other major city areas.

Thanks to GO Rentals’ Total Road Care Package, you don’t need to stress about paying for them if you do go to the North Island. This mandatory $3/day package covers you for all toll road fees you incur, including associated admin costs.

New Zealand's road conditions are generally excellent, but speed limits can vary depending on the area.

Urban areas, like Auckland, have lower speed limits, typically around 50 km/h, while rural roads can have limits of 100 km/h. Be sure to follow all road signs, and if you're heading to more remote locations, check for any road closures or weather warnings.

Read our blog posts for more info on New Zealand's toll roads and New Zealand roads.

Relocation Deals from Auckland to Dunedin

We are regularly updating our relocation deals so you can get GOing on a one-way road trip for cheaper. Check out our latest relocation deals to see if your one-way hire itinerary matches our deal. Save money and still access our award-winning customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

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