Start Your Road Trip Adventure with a Car Rental in Auckland
The 'City of Sails' has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world, with miles of coastline to sail from. Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, sitting between the Manakau and Waitemata harbours. Approximately one in four New Zealanders live in Auckland; it was recently rated as the third most liveable city in the world. The city is surrounded by natural attractions, including 48 volcanoes. A hire car is the perfect way to see the greater Auckland area.
Reasons to book car rental with VroomVroomVroom
- Compare and save - We are experts in rental cars and our booking system does all the hard work for you. Simply fill in the search box with your travel details, and with a single click of the search button we will display vehicles available through Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Europcar and Hertz. The savings are right at your finger tips.
- Choose by size or by price - You can choose the car brand and rate that will best suit you. Do you need an economical compact city car? Or do you need a wagon for the whole family? No matter which, VroomVroomVroom will have the best car for your needs.
- Book well in advance - This will ensure you get the best deal possible. Car hire rates are based on supply and demand. This means the more rental cars available, the cheaper they should be.
- Cancel at anytime with no charge - VroomVroomVroom knows that your plans may change. We have negotiated with suppliers to ensure that if you need to cancel or modify your booking, you will not be charged.
- Pick up from a location that suits you - We have depots in the Auckland city centre as well as the suburbs and airport.
Would you prefer a campervan hire in Auckland? If you're planning to go on a road trip in New Zealand, VroomVroomVroom can help you find the perfect campervan hire. Check out our Campervan Hire Auckland page to see a list of motorhomes and campervans, as well as holiday parks and camping sites.
If you need ideas of where to go, or what to do, check out our Auckland Guide for a list of attractions, accommodation, and restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Auckland?
The best time to visit Auckland is during the summer months. While it will be warmer during this period, rainfall is still frequent. There are some big events over the summer. Visitors can watch an outdoor movie at Silo Park on Friday nights, or check out the free Music in Parks program. For food lovers the Taste of Auckland offers an array of local culinary samples in November. There is something for everyone in Auckland: nature, arts, culture, shopping and sports. We've put together some suggestions to help you make the most of the city: Auckland on a Budget.
Driving tips in Auckland
For a city of just over a million people, Auckland does have issues with traffic. You can easily move around the city suburbs using the motorway system, but try to avoid peak times. If you are ready to hit the road, all you need is your cheap car rental and our trusty travel guide to help you see the best of what Auckland has to offer.
Auckland Airport is the country's busiest, so chances are you will pass through Auckland at some point in your travels. Stay and explore; there's no better way than in the comfort of a rental vehicle. We can assist you in finding a cheap rental car direct from the airport, so that you can get on the road immediately.
Useful Guide to exploring the City of Sails in your car hire
Auckland is one of the most exciting places to visit in New Zealand because of its numerous attractions. You can travel to the top of one of the volcanoes. One Tree Hill, Maungawhau (Mount Eden) or Rangitoto are all superb. You can also check out any of Auckland's vibrant markets, such as Otara or Avondale for a unique local experience or try boutique shopping in the inner city village of Parnell.
Attractions
Wild on Waiheke
Address: 82 Onetangi Rd, Waiheke Island, Auckland 1971
Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium
Address: 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei
Discover life under the sea at Kelly Tarltons. Every generation will love this visit as you embark on a journey into the depths of the ocean. You can also experience Antarctica with the replica Scott Base which is very popular with visitors to the aquarium. Be sure to check their website to check feeding times for the penguins and stingrays.
Spookers
Thirty minutes south of central Auckland, based at the Kingseat Hospital (a former psychiatric hospital) is now the #No.1 haunted theme park in the Southern Hemisphere. With five haunting attractions to choose from such as…the Haunted House, Freaky Forest, Disturbia, Corn Evil and Claustrophobia; you won't be disappointed, but in fact- terrified!
Rainbow's End
New Zealand's largest amusement park has fun for everyone. With so many different rides and attractions to choose from, ranging from mild to extreme thrills, no one will be left out and you'll definitely get your value for money as you have entire day to do whatever you want as many times as possible. Just aim to visit outside of the local school holidays to cut down those waiting times in line.
The Auckland Harbour Bridge
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or the easy going type, the Harbour Bridge offers two unique attractions fit for you. Jumping from 40 metres off the bridge, and over the Waitemata Harbour with your ankles being strapped to a bungee chord made up of hundreds of thousands of rubber bands, or climbing the famous landmark to venture on an hour and a half sightseeing tour is a New Zealand MUST DO!
The Red Boats
Auckland might be known as 'The City of Sails', but not everyone has access to a yacht! What you can do is spend a day on the water with Red Boats. They can fit you into one of their public fishing trips, or take you on a cruise under the Harbour Bridge and through the upper harbour to the historic Riverhead Tavern. If you have a group of your own, talk to them about a charter! Call them on 0800redboats or (09) 834 7337.
Time Unlimited Tours
A unique aspect of New Zealand is Tikanga Maori, or Maori culture. Learn about Auckland in a holistic way by taking a tour with award-winning Time Unlimited Tours. They offer whole or half-day driven tours if you don't feel like tackling Auckland traffic for a day, or try a walking tour of Auckland's wild west coast.
Sky Tower
Address: Cnr Federal & Victoria Street
Whether it's to admire the 360 panoramic views, indulge in the fine dining from a range of restaurants, or walk around the edge of the tower's rim, this tallest man-made structure in the country is not to be missed.
Waiheke Island
This island is the jewel in the crown of Auckland's Hauraki Gulf. It has been voted as the Number 5 Global Destination to visit in 2016 by Lonely Planet, and the Number 4 best island in the world by Conde Nast Traveler. What makes it so special? It has gorgeous beaches, secret bays, internationally acclaimed wines, vineyard dining with views to die for, a lively arts scene...do you need any more convincing? It is accessible by a scenic ferry ride of just 35 minutes from downtown Auckland. Leave the rental car for a day as there is secure and affordable parking in the Auckland Council car park at Downtown, and go.
Auckland Markets
Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, as well as having a diverse mix of other cultures and ethnicities. This diversity is all brought together by the market atmosphere. With authentic food and fresh produce, clothing, accessories, jewellery, fashion, arts and crafts and entertainment these popular markets are a unique New Zealand experience .
Accommodation
Skycity Grand Hotel
Address: 90 Federal St, Auckland
You'll be ticking all the boxes when you choose to stay here. This hotel encompasses all the luxuries of location, views and high end living. Located in the heart of Auckland CBD, just a 10 minute stroll to the waterfront and close to Queen St shops. You'll also be treated to free Wi-Fi, 24 hour room services and cardio room.
Hotel DeBrett
Ranked #1 of 76 hotels in the city by TripAdvisor 2014, named as one of Metro's Top 50 Auckland Restaurants for 2013 & 2014, ranked as the 58th best hotel in the world on Expedia Insider's Select List plus many, many more awards. This stylishly reinterpreted iconic building will make you feel like a celebrity. Absolutely stunning! Must experience.
Attic Backpackers (Formerly Top Floor Backpackers)
Although it's ranked 2nd best backpackers lodging accommodation in the city (Tripadvisor), reviews beg to differ and claim the budget accommodation to be the…“best hostel in NZ!” The Attic Backpackers pride themselves with a fresh, stylish, modern contemporary facility that's maintained to the highest of standards. Budget has a whole new meaning at this location.
Amora Hotel
You just can't beat the location of this charming hotel. Walk everywhere from the Amora; to the Aotea Centre, the Civic Theatre, the Auckland Central Library and art gallery. Enjoy the views into Myers Park. The Amora puts on a great breakfast, and has a beautiful rooftop pool and spa.
City Lodge
Address: 150 Vincent St AucklandEnjoy a central location, and the comfort of a 5-star Qualmark rated backpackers. You get the great value of a backpackers, but a little more comfort, as every room has an ensuite bathroom. You can easily walk to all of the city centre's attractions.
If you are looking for a last minute hotel deal in Auckland, don't fret because Ezibed is here to help you. Ezibed.com, an online accommodation booking website offers a quick and easy way to book at considerably reduced rates, with fast confirmation to their customers and clients. Ezibed.com guides customers and accommodation providers together and supplies an online market for unsold short term accommodation rooms. Accommodation providers, on the other hand, supply rates, inclusions and rooms available online for last minute bookings. By booking with Ezibed.com, you can now find amazing last minute deals and you can book yourself a great room the smart way!
Restaurants & Bars
O'Connell St Bistro
Awarded Best Wine Experience in the Cuisine Good Food Awards 2014. O'Connell St Bistro is located in Auckland's historic central business district and boasts an extensive menu which will satisfy all taste buds. This modern European styled bistro has a great reputation for its amazing food and cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to make this one of you preferred eating spots when you visit Auckland.
One Tree Grill
You'll be impressed the second you step foot into this establishment with their easy to use mini iPad menus. The surprises keep coming with this lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Delicious food selected from both sea and land, and cooked in a variety of ways. Spiced, smoked, roasted or twice-cooked. Whatever your preference, there will be something on the menu to die for.
The French Cafe Restaurant
Ranked #1 of 1,148 restaurants in the city with 382 Reviews, winner of -Best Service 2014 [Metro Restaurant of the Year Awards] this restaurant provides a relaxing, sophisticated environment that overlooks a beautiful edible garden and courtyard. Fine dining at its best, worth every penny. Bon Appetit!
SidArt Restaurant
Ranked #2 of 1,148 restaurants in the city with 191 Reviews, winner of -Best fine dining and Chef 2014 [Metro Restaurant of the Year Awards] this restaurant takes fine dining to whole new level by not only providing top quality dishes, but by combining those techniques with what the Chef likes to call SidArt- Exquisitely executed presentation that will take your breath away.
Giapo Ice Cream Restaurant
Ranked #3 of 1,148 restaurants in Auckland with 348 Reviews, #10 in the World Best Gelateria Chart [Dissapore media] Giapo have every right to claim “New Zealand's BEST ice-cream” title. So many new and creative ice-cream deserts to choose from that are guaranteed to please. Unique to the city only, a must stop taste experience!
Flight 605
Feel like a local in this welcoming neighbourhood bar. Flight 605 is proud of its enormous collection of New Zealand craft beers. Drop by for some of its famous events; Wings Wednesday, Comedy Cockpit nights, or the Birth of Cool, late on Friday nights. Flight 605 is an easy drive from the CBD, and there's ample parking in surrounding streets.
Summer Events in Auckland
Want to explore more of Auckland? Check out our travel guides below...
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Auckland Airport Travel Guide: Things to do near the Auckland airport.JPG)
Hertz Auckland Downtown - 154 Victoria St West, Auckland, NI. 0
Europcar Auckland City - 73 Shortland Street, Auckland, NI. 1010
Thrifty Auckland City - 150 Khyber Pass Road, Auckland, NI. 1150
Budget Auckland - 163 Beach Road, Parnell, Auckland, NI. 1001
Avis Auckland Downtown - 17 - 19 Nelson Street, Auckland, NI. 1001
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