Start Your Road Trip Adventure with a Car Rental in Auckland

Get around the City of Sails at your own pace

Why do we call Auckland the 'City of Sails'? Because it has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world! It also has a lot of coastline to sail those boats from, as it sits on an isthmus between two harbours; the Manukau and the Waitemata. It is the largest Polynesian city in the world, with representatives from many of the Pacific Islands making up the population and adding to our maritime vibe. 

It could just as easily be called the city of volcanoes, there's around 48 of them in the greater Auckland area. 

Its Maori name is Tamaki Makaurau, which means, 'Tamaki desired by many lovers'. And no wonder! Who wouldn't desire a city with two harbours, stunning volcanic mountains, a cosmopolitan population? There's something for everyone in Auckland; from nature, arts, culture, shopping and sports. 

Approximately one in four New Zealanders live in Auckland, it has a  population of more than 1.4 million people. Just this year it rated as number 3 in a list of most liveable cities in the world. 

Auckland Airport is the country's busiest, so chances are you will pass through Auckland at some point in your travels. Don't rush off! Stay and explore; there's no better way than in the comfort of a rental car. 

Must dos include:

•  Travelling to the top of one of the volcanoes. One Tree Hill, Maungawhau (Mt Eden) or Rangitoto are all superb. 
  
• Check out any of Auckland's vibrant markets, such as Otara or Avondale for a unique, local experience. 
  
• Try boutique shopping in the inner city village of Parnell

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.

Waiheke Island

This island is the jewel in the crown of Auckland's Hauraki Gulf. It has recently been voted 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, there is secure and affordable parking in the Auckland council car park at Downtown, and go. 

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 

Address: 833 Kingseat Road, Karaka

Rainbow's End

Address: 2 Clist Crescent, Manukau

The Auckland Harbour Bridge

Address: Westhaven Reserve, Bottom of Curran St, Herne Bay

The Red Boats

Address: Trips leave from Z-Pier, Westhaven

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 www.theredboats.co.nz.

Time Unlimited Tours

Web Address: www.newzealandtours.travel

Sky Tower

Address: Cnr Federal & Victoria Street

 PLACES TO STAY

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 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.

 Waldorf Stadium Apartments Hotel

Address: 40 Beach Road, Auckland

You wouldn't have believed it could be possible in the heart of the city, but if it's spacious apartments you're needing, we've found them.  Modern room with full kitchen facilities, including dishwasher and in-room laundry.  But wait there's more, complimentary Wi-Fi, pool, gym and tennis court.  Close to waterfront entertainment and shops.  These apartments just keep getting better.

 Hotel DeBrett 

 Attic Backpackers (Formerly Top Floor Backpackers) 

Flight 605

Want to explore more of Auckland? Check out our travel guides below...

Passion never runs higher than when the world champion All Blacks meet their arch rivals, the Australian Wallabies. There's good public transport to Eden Park, but hiring a car for the weekend means you can make the most of the rest of your time in Auckland.   

What better way to see some of the best parts of Auckland, and tick off a milestone achievement at the same time? Get organised now, there's not just a full marathon, but a range of distances to suit most.