Car Rentals in Whakatane, NZL

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Top Rental Car Deals in Whakatane

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Whakatane, Bay of Plenty Region, NZL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Whakatane, Bay of Plenty Region, NZL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Whakatane, Bay of Plenty Region, NZL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Whakatane, Bay of Plenty Region, NZL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Whakatane car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Whakatane

Renting a car in Whakatane offers 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 adjust your travel plans as needed. This convenience is particularly appealing for families and those seeking outdoor or eco-friendly experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Te Manuka Tutahi Marae, a cultural centre that provides rich cultural experiences, or Wairere Falls, perfect for adventure and romance seekers. Additionally, Mataatua: The House That Came Home is a historic building that showcases the area's heritage.

Exploring beyond Whakatane is equally accessible with a rental car. For instance, Ohope, just 5 km away, boasts stunning locations like Ohope Beach and Otarawairere Bay. Other nearby neighbourhoods, such as Coastlands and Poroporo, feature the same attractions, allowing for a seamless travel experience. Overall, hiring a car enhances your visit to Whakatane, making it easier and more enjoyable to discover everything this beautiful region has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Whakatane

  • Ohope: Located 5 km from Whakatane, Ohope is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking an eco-friendly experience. This suburb is home to the stunning Ohope Beach, perfect for relaxation and beach holidays. Visitors can also explore the scenic Otarawairere Bay, which offers beautiful views and outdoor activities. The nearby Statue of Wairaka provides a cultural touch, and various cafes serve delightful meals, making Ohope a charming area to stay.
  • Thornton: Situated 9 km from Whakatane, Thornton attracts travellers looking for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The Awakeri Hot Springs offer a relaxing retreat, while the Wairere Falls cater to those seeking romance and adventure amidst nature. The Te Manuka Tutahi Marae adds a cultural experience to your visit. With its picturesque beaches and parks, Thornton is a great option for an eco-friendly stay.
  • Coastlands: Around the Whakatane area, Coastlands is perfect for families and eco-conscious travellers. The suburb features several golf courses for enthusiasts, alongside beautiful parks and beaches. Notable attractions include the historic Mataatua: The House That Came Home and the cultural significance of Te Manuka Tutahi Marae. The nearby Wairere Falls offer outdoor adventures, making Coastlands a delightful choice for your stay.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you 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 booking well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles generally come at a lower rental price and are easier to manoeuvre and park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance 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 accessible. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this could be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence 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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Our third best deal of the day:
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Whakatane?
Fun road trip adventures in Whakatane await, with daily hire car rates starting from a budget-friendly . That's based on prices found within the past seven days.
What happens if I need to cancel my Whakatane car reservation?
There are always times when even the best-laid plans go wrong. That's why we provide a full refund on the majority of rentals if you notify us six hours ahead of picking up the car. Remember to double-check the cancellation policy — in some cases it's not an option. Can't find anything there? Our Customer Service Portal has more useful information.
What types of cars can I rent in Whakatane?
Large SUVs, cute little minis or something luxurious... Hop behind the wheel of whatever you prefer! Economy is the top rental car category in Whakatane. Zippy, great on fuel and easy to park, these wheels make exploring bustling city streets effortless. Maybe the best thing? They're easy on the hip pocket. That means you'll have more cash to spend on other things, like touring as much of this exciting destination as possible.
Where can I go on a road trip from Whakatane?
Everyone knows that Whakatane is one of the best destinations in Bay of Plenty Region. But you'll also find plenty of other awesome spots to explore when you lock in a vehicle and hit the road. Here are some top tips to get your journey off to a flying start:
  • Around 110 miles from Whakatane, Napier is on the to-do list of many travellers. With leading attractions like Napier Beach, you'll have no shortage of things to keep you busy here.
  • Tauranga, around 50 miles away, will also show you a memorable time. Need some sightseeing inspiration? Mount Maunganui won't disappoint.
  • Get some distance between you and the hustle and bustle of the city at Mt. Eden. Approximately 140 miles from Whakatane, it's a terrific place to hang out in nature.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Whakatane with Expedia?
It's easy to score an incredible deal with Expedia. Simply choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pick-up and drop-off points, and compare offers from big-name rental providers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Whakatane car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Whakatane?
In Whakatane, the requirement is 21 years and over. Most outlets will charge additional fees for young drivers, which can vary based on the hire location. Hire agreements for young drivers may include restrictions for certain vehicles, such as large cars, and require comprehensive insurance to be taken out. It's a good idea to read the fine print carefully before booking your wheels.
What do you need to hire a car in Whakatane?
Your driver's license and a credit card in the same name are two essentials. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of your own coverage. Rules can differ from rental company to rental company, so read through your policy.
What is the cheapest car hire in Whakatane?
The two lowest daily prices offered in Whakatane within the past seven days were and . How's that for a great deal? 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 Whakatane?
You can rent a car for a month or longer in Whakatane, so go ahead and extend your holiday! Simply enter your trip dates into our long-term car rental deals page and find your perfect ride.
Where can I find a Whakatane hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental companies, so you'll have to do a bit of shopping around. Found a Whakatane supplier that does rent to drivers under 25? Terrific news! Just take note that some companies charge extra fees to drivers aged between 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're looking at will have all the information you need.

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