One-Way Car Rental Auckland to Wellington

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

Get GOing on your Kiwi adventure with GO Rentals' one-way car rentals from Auckland to Wellington! Enjoy an affordable, stress-free journey with stunning coastal views and hidden gems along the way. Where will you GO next? GO grab the wheel and start your journey today!

Why GO One-Way Auckland to Wellington?

Why settle for the ordinary when you can experience true Kiwi freedom on the open road with GO Rentals? Start your adventure at our Auckland branch and head south to Wellington, enjoying the flexibility of a one-way trip. With branches conveniently located in both cities, we make it easy to explore New Zealand without the hassle of returning your car to the starting point. Embrace the freedom, discover hidden gems, and make the most of your journey.

Why GO Auckland to Wellington 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.

How to Rent a Car with GO Rentals

Simply add your itinerary details, including your pick-up date and chosen return location, to our booking widget and click "Find my car." We offer good value one-way car rentals at all nine of our locations across the North and South Islands. Whether you're picking up your rental car in Wellington and dropping it off in Auckland or vice versa, we've got you covered. Please note:

  • A one-way rental fee may apply, depending on branch availability. The exact amount will show in your booking summary before checkout.
  • Our minimum one-way car hire period varies between 1 and 7 days, depending on the driving distance between your pick-up and drop-off locations, such as from Wellington to Auckland.
  • One-way rentals depend on peak seasons and vehicle availability at our branches. However, if we need to move vehicles, we can create more one-way availability. If our website doesn’t show what you need, give us a call and we’ll do our best to accommodate your epic road trip.

With GO Rentals, you get convenient, affordable rentals tailored to your needs, whether you're travelling from Auckland to Wellington or exploring any other part of New Zealand. Explore with GO!

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 Wellington 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.

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 Wellington One Way Trip Ideas

We love knowing our rental cars do more than just get you from A to B. With an interactive trip planner and an extensive travel blog to inspire you, your one-way car rental in New Zealand can turn into an epic adventure with GO Rentals. Here are eight must-see stops on your journey from Auckland to Wellington:

  • Hamilton

    From Auckland, head south to Hamilton to explore the beautiful Hamilton Gardens. Whether it’s winter or summer, the themed gardens offer a serene first break for your road trip.

  • Rotorua

    Continue your drive to Rotorua, known for its geothermal baths and Maori culture. Visit geysers, mud pools, and cultural villages for a unique and engaging trip.

  • Taupo

    Get GOing to Taupo, a picturesque town by the largest lake in New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks, take a dip in the hot springs, or enjoy watersports in the summer. A pretty sweet road trip stop, right?

  • Tongariro National Park

    Head towards Tongariro National Park, home to New Zealand’s oldest national park. Whether it’s hiking in summer or skiing in winter, the park offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.

  • Whanganui

    Our next top tip would be Whanganui, a town rich in history and culture. With a beautiful river, local art scene, and charming town centre, you can have a day to remember.

  • Kapiti Coast

    Known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets, the Kapiti Coast is must-see. Stop by Paraparaumu Beach for a relaxing break from the driving.

  • Te Aro, Wellington

    Finally, head to Te Aro, Wellington’s vibrant cultural hub. Enjoy a free visit to the Te Papa Museum or explore the eclectic mix of cafes and shops. This spot is a must in any season.

  • Aotea Quay, Wellington

    Finish your adventure at Aotea Quay, where you can soak in stunning waterfront views and explore the bustling Wellington Harbour. Perfect for a summer stroll or winter photo op.

What are you waiting for? GO grab the wheel and start your one-way rental today!

Auckland to Wellington 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:

  • Sonia

    On our epic little Waiheke trip, we got to go where we wanted on the island, see what we wanted to see with freedom. So happy to have hired a car.

  • Kreason

    We drove from Auckland to Lake Taupo and back in one day, made the most amazing memories as a family, and we couldn’t have done this without our relatable, safe and comfortable hire car!

  • Anggoro

    We hired a car from GO Rentals and visited many places in the North Island, and one of the best is the Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, and this Champagne Pool is the most beautiful. There is a path around the area (it takes about 45 45-minute walk).

  • Christine

    Thank you GO RENTALS lovely helpful Wellington staff ... this is us returning from Skate NZ National Championships held in Palmerston North, a quick stop on the Kapiti Coast.

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.

Driving in Auckland and Wellington

Traffic and Parking in Auckland and Wellington

Auckland: Traffic is typically heavy, particularly during peak hours in the central areas. Parking includes street options and numerous paid facilities, with rates generally at $5.50 per hour on weekdays, capped at $24 daily, and $2 per hour on evenings and weekends, capped at $15. Free parking is scarce, mainly available in suburban regions and some shopping centers. For further details, visit Auckland Transport.

Wellington: Traffic is lighter compared to Auckland, though still busy during peak times in the CBD. Parking is more accessible and affordable, costing between $4 to $5 per hour on weekdays and around $3 per hour on weekends. Free parking can be found in certain suburban areas and on specific streets with time limitations. More information is available at the Wellington City Council.

Toll Roads and Road Conditions

New Zealand has only three toll roads, all on the North Island, including the route from Auckland to Wellington. The roads between these cities are well-maintained with clear signage. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on open roads.

Fortunately, with GO Rentals’ mandatory $3/day Total Road Care Package, you can enjoy free passage on all toll roads. It covers all your toll road fees, including associated admin costs.

For more info, read our guide on New Zealand's toll roads.

Relocation Deals from Auckland to Wellington

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