Wānaka Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore Wānaka with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* 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 the freedom to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, making it particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures, romantic experiences, or family-friendly activities. Key attractions such as Warbirds & Wheels, Wānaka Lavender Farm, and Mount Iron Lookout are all conveniently located within Wānaka, allowing for easy access to culture, nature, and stunning scenery. Additionally, with a rental car, you can venture to nearby destinations like Albert Town, just 4 km away, where you can visit That Wānaka Tree, or take a 17 km drive to Lake Hawea, home to more outdoor experiences and attractions. For those looking for a bit of adventure, Cardrona is a mere 24 km away, featuring significant sites like Roys Peak and the Kawarau Suspension Bridge. The convenience of a rental car enhances your sightseeing experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in and around Wānaka.

Where to stay around Wānaka

  • Albert Town: Located 4 km from Wānaka, Albert Town offers a romantic and scenic retreat for travellers. Enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, golfing, and exploring local landmarks like the Wānaka Lavender Farm and Mount Iron Lookout. With nearby options for wine and coffee, it's an excellent choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • Cardrona: Situated 24 km from Wānaka, Cardrona is ideal for sports and adventure enthusiasts. This suburb is known for its ski fields and golf courses, making it a perfect spot for winter sports. Explore historical sites like the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement and enjoy the breathtaking views from Roys Peak. Cardrona’s offerings include local distilleries, adding to its appeal.
  • Lake Hawea: Only 17 km from Wānaka, Lake Hawea provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and romantic getaways. Visitors can delight in the stunning scenery at Lake Hawea and partake in skiing or relaxation treatments. Notable attractions include Warbirds & Wheels and the nearby Wānaka Lavender Farm, along with excellent dining and winery options to enhance your stay.

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 specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded 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 could also apply to renters aged 70 and above. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy 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.

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
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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.
What types of cars can I rent in Wanaka?
Not too small yet not too big, compact cars are the top pick for many rental customers in Wanaka. Featuring excellent mileage and easy handling and parking, they're perfect for travelling around the city. A compact is slightly roomier than an economy vehicle, so you can hit the road in a bit more comfort and style. Want something bigger? Check out our standard, intermediate and full-size options.
Where can I go on a road trip from Wanaka?
There's heaps to do in Wanaka, but venture further 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 familiarise 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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