Getting around Wellington in a rental car
By Vroom Team • Reviewed 30 Jan 2026
If you’re planning a trip to Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara and want to hire a rental car, hit the road running with our insider tips on getting the most out of your journey.
Read on to find out more.
New Zealand’s capital city is particularly well known for its fantastic local cafes and restaurants, and wealth of film experiences. Movie fans will find plenty to see and do in the city, as Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara is home to the Weta studio which was central to the filming of the Lord of the Rings. If you are planning to explore this exciting city with a rental car, here is a guide to help you.
Where to drive your rental car in Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara
Te Aro: Located in the centre of the city, visitors will find plenty to do in Te Aro. The region is home to interesting museums and a number of theatres.
Thorndon: Just north of the city centre, Thorndon is an important historical suburb that is also home to the city’s parliament buildings.
Miramar: If you are in Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara because of its importance in the film industry, Miramar is the suburb for you. The region was crucial to the production of the Lord of the Rings.
Newtown: A diverse neighbourhood that is full of unique eateries, located close to the city centre.
Karori: This picturesque suburb features a wildlife sanctuary and great views of the city and its surrounds.
Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara highlight
Take the cable car up to the popular Kelburn Lookout for a great view over the city. Spend some time exploring the Botanic Gardens, within easy reach of the city centre. The Museum of New Zealand is also worth a visit, and is a great way to learn more about the history of New Zealand.
Driving tips for Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara
Traffic can be busy in Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara during peak times. If you can, avoid driving or allow extra time for your trip during these periods.
Driving to Wellington Airport may take longer during peak periods, so allow extra time if you have to make a flight.
If you come across a stop sign, you are required to bring your vehicle to a complete stop before you check for oncoming traffic.
If you’re visiting from another country, take note that in New Zealand you must drive on the left side of the road.
If the lights are flashing amber, please give way to other traffic.
The speed limit on major highways linking Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara to other New Zealand locations is generally 100km/h for all cars including hire cars.
Parking in Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara
During weekdays, parking fees will apply for on-street parking around the city centre. On weekends and public holidays, parking is not charged, but time restrictions will still apply.
You can pay for parking at the parking metres provided with coins or credit or debit cards. If you are parked illegally your vehicle may be towed.
Toll roads in Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara
There are no toll roads around Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara. You will only encounter toll roads if you’re travelling north, where there are three toll roads located around Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau.
Driving distances from Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara
Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara to Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau: 642 km and 8 hrs
Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara to Gisborne / Tūranga Nui a Kiwa: 528 km and 6 hrs 50 min
Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara to Napier / Ahuriri: 320 km and 4 hrs
Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara to Palmerston North: 143 km and 1 hr 50 min
Fuel
You will need to fill your rental car with fuel before you return it to the depot. Here are a few conveniently located petrol stations in and around Wellington / Te Whanganui a Tara.
BP: 181 Wakefield Street, Te Aro
Z: 174 Vivian Street, Te Aro
About the author
Vroom Team
VroomVroomVroom’s writing team brings together decades of writing expertise to share their insights into travelling around New Zealand by rental car. Let our team help you get the most out of your rental car experience.
