Car Rentals in Napier, NZL

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Napier

Renting a car in Napier provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or cultural experiences, having a car allows you to visit key attractions such as Marine Parade, ideal for family outings and leisurely strolls, and Bluff Hill Domain Lookout, perfect for those looking to enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities.

Additionally, you can explore the historic Napier Prison for a glimpse into the city's culture. Beyond the city, neighbourhoods like Taradale and Ahuriri offer more attractions, including Napier Beach and the National Tobacco Company Building. The convenience of a rental car makes it easy to travel between these areas, allowing you to discover the beauty of Hawke's Bay with ease. Whether travelling alone, as a couple, or with family, a car hire enhances your travel experience, ensuring you can make the most of your time in and around Napier.

Most popular car hires in Napier

• Compact: The Compact car option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for navigating the city, offering ease of parking and low fuel costs, which makes it a popular choice for those looking to explore Napier at their own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, providing ample space for up to 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This car type combines comfort and versatility, making it suitable for longer journeys and varied terrains, ensuring a relaxed travel experience while discovering the attractions in and around Napier.
• Premium Pickup AWD: The Premium Pickup AWD is tailored for adventure travellers, families, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for 2 large suitcases. This vehicle type is designed for those who seek a rugged yet comfortable experience, making it well-suited for exploring the diverse landscapes around Napier while offering the flexibility needed for outdoor activities.

Top rated car suppliers in Napier

• Budget: Budget is the most popular car hire supplier in Napier, boasting a convenient rental location in the city. Many travellers favour Budget for its cost-effective options and the flexibility it provides for exploring the surrounding attractions. The most booked vehicle type is the Compact, ideal for navigating the local roads and for easy luggage management. With Budget, you can enjoy the freedom to set your own itinerary while discovering the beauty of the Hawke's Bay region.

Where to stay in Napier

• Napier South: This suburb offers a delightful blend of outdoor, romantic, and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the scenic Marine Parade, perfect for leisurely strolls, and the historic Napier Prison for a touch of culture. The area is also home to a golf course and a water park, making it suitable for all ages. Nearby food and drink options include wineries and restaurants, ensuring a pleasant stay. The beach and lake are also within close reach for relaxation and exploration.
• Ahuriri: Ahuriri is a charming suburb known for its outdoor and romantic settings, ideal for families as well. Highlights include the Bluff Hill Domain Lookout, which offers breathtaking views, and the tranquil Ahuriri Estuary, perfect for nature lovers. The area features a theatre and opera for cultural pursuits, along with waterfront eateries and wineries that enhance the local flavour. The nearby beach and esplanade provide opportunities for leisure and enjoyment.
• Bluff Hill: Bluff Hill boasts stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Key attractions like the Bluff Hill Domain Lookout and the Marine Parade offer picturesque scenery and recreational activities. Visitors can also explore the historic Napier Prison for a glimpse into the past. The suburb is well-equipped with local wineries and restaurants, ensuring plenty of dining options. Its proximity to the beach and lake adds to the area's appeal for relaxation and enjoyment.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Napier

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you desire. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to benefit from lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which can be convenient as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance while booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Napier

The best value period to rent a car in and around Napier is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. April can also be a good option, offering average prices with similar demand. In contrast, January and February tend to be the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly high prices. March remains pricier as well, while June through August see more moderate pricing and average demand for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
August	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
October	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average