Wānaka Car Rental

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Top 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 rental in and around Wānaka

Renting a car in Wānaka offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to nearby highlights like the Warbirds & Wheels transport museum and the picturesque Wānaka Lavender Farm. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Mount Iron Lookout provides a perfect spot for adventure and romance, all within the area of Wānaka.

Having a vehicle is particularly beneficial for families or those with luggage, allowing for easy management of belongings while visiting attractions. You can take short drives to nearby destinations such as Albert Town, just 4 km away, or Lake Hawea, located 17 km from Wānaka. For a day trip, Cardrona, 24 km away, offers unique sights like the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement and Roys Peak. With your own car, you can craft your itinerary, ensuring you experience the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities that Wānaka and its surroundings have to offer without the constraints of public transport.

Where to stay around Wānaka

  • Albert Town: Located 4 km from Wānaka, Albert Town offers a charming suburban experience with breathtaking outdoor scenery. Ideal for a romantic getaway, visitors can indulge in activities such as skiing or golfing. The nearby landmarks like the picturesque Wānaka Lavender Farm, Mount Iron Lookout, and the iconic That Wānaka Tree provide excellent opportunities for exploration. With local food options, including wineries and coffee shops, Albert Town is a perfect base for those looking to enjoy nature and relaxation.
  • Cardrona: Situated 24 km from Wānaka, Cardrona is the go-to destination for adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts. This suburb is known for its ski fields and golf courses, making it ideal for winter sports and summer activities alike. Key attractions include the historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, the stunning Roys Peak for outdoor adventures, and the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, perfect for cultural exploration. Cardrona also boasts local distilleries and wineries for a taste of the region's best beverages.
  • Lake Hawea: Just 17 km away from Wānaka, Lake Hawea is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and romantic atmosphere. This suburb is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as body treatments and skiing. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Lake Hawea, or explore the Warbirds & Wheels transport museum, which is great for families. With nearby dining options and wineries, Lake Hawea provides a serene escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and are easier to manoeuvre and park in crowded 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience could make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for 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 Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Wanaka?
Getting around Wanaka doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, with daily car rental prices starting at within the past seven days.
Can I rent a car from Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN)?
You can, and there's plenty of choice. After you've disembarked and grabbed your bags, just walk to the rental car centre in the Terminal building, a three minute walk away. Here you can choose from reliable companies like Ace, JUCY and Hertz. If you want some more options, see what's on offer with Thrifty and Avis.
What happens if I need to cancel my Wanaka car reservation?
We appreciate that having a bit of wiggle room is important. That's why the majority of reservations offer a complete refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours before collecting the car. It's a good idea to check the cancellation policy though because there are some exemptions. If the information isn't there, head to our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from Wanaka?
There's heaps to do in Wanaka, but venture farther afield and you'll find more sightseeing magic. Rent a set of wheels and you can wander around the surrounding region at your own pace. Add these awesome destinations to your list:
  • Make your way to Dunedin for a fun-filled sightseeing adventure. Approximately 177 kilometres from Wanaka, it's home to many amazing sights, including Larnach Castle.
  • Why not check out the best of Harington Point too? Unmissable sights in this happening city include Penguin Place. Harington Point is roughly 177 kilometres from Wanaka.
  • Find your way to Lyttelton Harbour to reconnect with nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just sit and unwind. From Wanaka, it's 306 kilometres away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Wanaka with Expedia?
Whatever sort of ride you're looking for, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Just compare the offers from leading rental suppliers and pick the option that's perfect for you. Want to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Wanaka car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Wanaka?
Rental vehicle rules in Wanaka require drivers to be 21 and over. Are you a younger driver? Surcharges and restrictions may apply. Rental companies impose what is known as a young driver surcharge, which is an extra fee to the car rental cost. Restrictions usually apply to the classes of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may differ between providers, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Wanaka?
You'll need to present your driver's licence and a credit card in your name when you get to the rental counter. Prior to pickup, check with your selected company whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of auto insurance.
What side of the road do you drive on in Wanaka?
Unlike the United States, people in Wanaka drive on the left-hand side of the road. Having the driver's seat and some controls on the opposite side can also take a bit of getting used to. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the vehicle and its quirks before embarking on your journey.
What is the cheapest car rental in Wanaka?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a car rental in Wanaka was . The next best deal was per 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 rent a car for a month or longer in Wanaka?
Whether you plan to stop in Wanaka or journey beyond, it's easy to reserve a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll help you find fantastic long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find a Wanaka car rental if I am younger than 25?
This will depend on the car rental companies that are found in Wanaka. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found an outlet that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, bear in mind that additional fees may apply. Do some research into any extra charges before booking your rental.

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