Car Rentals in Wānaka, NZL

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Top Rental Car Deals in Wānaka

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Wānaka, Otago, NZL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Wānaka, Otago, NZL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Wānaka, Otago, NZL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Wānaka, Otago, NZL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Wānaka car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Wānaka

Renting a car in Wānaka provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the stunning region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as you go. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples seeking romantic experiences. Within Wānaka, you can visit attractions such as Warbirds & Wheels, a transport museum perfect for family outings, or the Wānaka Lavender Farm, which offers a beautiful outdoor setting. For breathtaking views, the Mount Iron Lookout is a must-see. Additionally, a car allows you to venture to nearby destinations. Albert Town, located just 4 km away, features the Wānaka Lavender Farm and the iconic That Wānaka Tree. Cardrona, 24 km from Wānaka, offers sights like Arrowtown Chinese Settlement and Roys Peak. Lake Hawea, situated 17 km away, is home to stunning landscapes and the same attractions found in Wānaka. With a rental car, you can comfortably explore these diverse experiences and gain a deeper appreciation of this beautiful part of New Zealand.

Where to stay around Wānaka

  • Albert Town: Located 4 km from Wānaka, Albert Town is ideal for those seeking outdoor activities and romantic scenery. It offers access to ski fields and golf courses, making it a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts. Key attractions include the Wānaka Lavender Farm, perfect for families, and the Mount Iron Lookout, ideal for outdoor adventures. After exploring, enjoy nearby eateries that serve local wines and coffee.
  • Cardrona: Situated 24 km from Wānaka, Cardrona is a hotspot for sports and adventure lovers. The area is renowned for its ski fields and golf course, attracting those eager to embrace the outdoors. Notable points of interest include the historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement and the scenic Roys Peak, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. The local distilleries and wineries offer a delightful way to unwind after a day of adventure.
  • Lake Hawea: Located 17 km from Wānaka, Lake Hawea provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor and romantic getaways. The area is famed for its pristine lake and mountain views, ideal for a peaceful retreat. Visitors can explore the lake itself, perfect for various outdoor activities, and the Warbirds & Wheels transport museum, which is great for families. Local dining options feature delightful wines that complement the scenic surroundings.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Similar restrictions can apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
Our best deal of the day:
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Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Wanaka?
Daily rental prices were as low as within the past seven days. With rates like this, getting around Wanaka in your own set of wheels is an affordable and convenient way to see the sights.
Can I hire a car from Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN)?
Yes, you can. Once you've touched down at Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN), you'll find the hire companies in the Terminal building, a three minute walk away. Book the best set of wheels with Europcar, Budget or Thrifty. Hertz and Ezi are other suppliers worth taking a look at.
What happens if I need to cancel my Wanaka car reservation?
We understand that flexibility is important. That's why many hires provide a complete refund if you notify us a minimum of six hours before collecting the car. It's still good to scan the rental agreement though because there are some exclusions. If there's nothing specified there, have a look on our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in Wanaka?
Not too small yet not too big, compact cars are the number one choice for many visitors to Wanaka. With terrific fuel mileage and easy parking and manoeuvrability, they're ideal for dashing around the city. A compact is roomier than an economy vehicle, which means you can cruise around in a little more comfort and style. Need a bit more legroom? Check out our standard, intermediate and full-size options.
Where can I go on a road trip from Wanaka?
With your own vehicle, adventuring around the surrounding areas is a walk in the park. Wanaka is a great place to start, but there's tons more to enjoy in the region. Grab the keys to a hire car, toss your bags in the trunk and take a peek at these other inspiring locations:
  • You'll feel the pulse of a city bursting with life the minute you pull into Dunedin. Some 110 miles from Wanaka, it's home to loads of excellent places to explore, like Larnach Castle.
  • Harington Point, around 110 miles away, also promises a memorable time. Chasing some sightseeing inspiration? Penguin Place is one of our favourite stops.
  • Put some distance between you and the busy city at New Brighton Beach. Approximately 200 miles from Wanaka, it's a wonderful place to get your fill of nature.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Wanaka with Expedia?
Browse our wide selection of rental cars, check out customer ratings and compare prices from top brands. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you get the best deal on your ride. Got a flight or hotel booking? Add on your Wanaka car hire and save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Wanaka?
In most cases, the requirement is 21 years of age and over in Wanaka. It's important to note that most companies will charge extra fees for young renters. Check before you book, as different rules may apply between hire car suppliers. Keep in mind that if you're planning to rent a specialty vehicle or a larger car like an SUV, you may need to be older than 21.
What do you need to hire a car in Wanaka?
While terms and conditions may differ between car hire outlets in Wanaka, the basics are your driver's license and a credit card. You don't need to take out insurance with your rental company. However, proof of alternative coverage may be necessary.
What is the cheapest car hire in Wanaka?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the cheapest daily rate was . The second lowest price to hire a set of wheels in Wanaka was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Wanaka?
You can rent a vehicle for a month or longer in Wanaka, so don't hestitate to extend that holiday! Just enter your trip details into our long-term car rental deals page and secure your ideal ride.
Where can I find a Wanaka hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental companies, so be prepared to do a bit of homework. Managed to find a Wanaka outlet that does rent to under 25s? Terrific news! Just keep in mind that extra fees often apply to drivers between 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're considering should have all the information you need.
Why should I rent a Wanaka car with Expedia?
If you're on the lookout for a set of wheels in Wanaka, there's no better place than Expedia. Our member exclusive offers, discounts and rewards programme will help you land a real bargain. And with multiple hire suppliers to select from, there's loads of choice. Like to save even more? Bundle your bookings into a holiday package. From car and holiday rentals to flights, hotels and activities, we make it a cinch to plan your adventure. Plus, when you become a member of our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, activities, flights and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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