General Information
Accommodation
While on your New Zealand self drive vacation you don't have to worry about booking ahead to secure accommodation - on your self drive holiday everything is already arranged.
Our accommodation options have been specially chosen for their high standards, friendly ambience, location, character and facilities.
You have a choice of two accommodation levels with your self drive touring packages:
Boutique: Properties with unique character and style, including breakfast each day.
Self Catering: Self contained and serviced accommodation with self catering facilities.
Our accommodation reflects the international travellers' need for comfort, security and variety to ensure your maximum enjoyment and satisfaction during your New Zealand self drive vacation.
Rental Cars
Late model rental cars, unlimited kilometres, self drive freedom...
Rental Cars for self drive tours use late model vehicles from leading New Zealand rental car companies. We have a complete range of vehicles to suit your needs, whether it be for one person travelling alone or a small group.
Three standards of hire vehicle are available:
Full: 3.8 litre, 4 door auto, 2-4 people with 3 suitcases and bags.
Intermediate: 1.6 - 1.8 litre, 4 door auto, 2-4 people with 2 suitcases and 2 soft bags.
Compact: 1.3 - 1.5 litre, 4 door, 2 people with 1 suitcase and 2 soft bags.
Car Hire Includes:
Basic Insurance
Unlimited kilometres
Seperate vehicles in each island
Passenger ferry crossing charge
Car Hire Excludes:
Fuel
Bond
Additional items such as ski racks
Also Available:
Compact manuals
Intermediate Autos
Station Wagons
10 seater Mini Coaches
Executive Station Wagons
4 Wheel Drives (4X4)
Please ask about costs for these and other categories
Inter Island Travel
When you cross on the ferry from North to South Island, or the other way, you return your rental car and get a fresh car when you arrive at the end of the cruise. Pre-booked self drive tours include your individual ferry fares.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do your tours include meals?
Breakfasts are included when you overnight at a 'bed and breakfast' property. A hangi dinner and Maori concert is included in Rotorua and dinner is included with your hosts at the Te Anau farmstay.
I want to spend more time in a particular place. Can I add a night to the tour?
All of our tours are flexible and we can add or drop nights in each destination to suit your timetable. Contact us for advice and a new cost.
Do I take the rental car on the Interislander ferry with me?
You will leave the rental car at the interislander ferry terminal, and collect a new rental car on the other side of the crossing.
What about insurance for my rental car?
Your hire already includes basic vehicle insurance. However, a bond is payable at the time you collect the rental car to cover the insurance excess in case of damage to the vehicle - this is fully refundable if the vehicle is returned undamaged. Credit cards are welcome. If you have the misfortune to be injured in a motor vehicle accident while you are in New Zealand, then you will receive first-class medical and hospital treatment IN NEW ZEALAND at very little cost to yourself. However the rates of compensation are low by international standards and we suggest that you take out adequate personal accident insurance in case you suffer an accident which leaves you with some form of disability. It is not possible to obtain compensation through litigation. ACC laws are subject to change without notice.
What if something unexpected goes wrong during the tour?
You can call us toll-free within New Zealand on 0800-803-550 Someone from our office is always on call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Is my driver's licence valid in New Zealand?
Make sure your driver's licence is current. If your licence is not in English, you must bring an English translation with you or obtain an International Drivers Licence. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an International Drivers Licence.
How old do I have to be to be able to drive in New Zealand?
All drivers must be at least 21 years old.