Scenic drive Mount Cook Road | New Zealand holiday
Road-side views of Lake Tekapo
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Scenic route in amazing landscape | New Zealand holiday
Scenic drive Mount Cook Road | New Zealand holiday
Road-side views of Lake Tekapo
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Scenic route in amazing landscape | New Zealand holiday
Car hire for the ultimate

Road trip in New Zealand

New Zealand features some of the best scenic drives in the world - where the landscape changes with every turn of the road - which can so easily be missed.

That is why we recommend travelling around the country by car, giving you the flexibility and freedom to explore places a campervan or a motorhome simply cannot reach.

Our travel experts understand and know New Zealand like the back of their hand - because they were either born, or lived there for many years - so, it comes as no surprise when we tell you that they have uncovered some of the most incredible and breathtaking hidden gems in New Zealand.

And thanks to this knowledge and their love for the country, they are now spending their time making sure you discover them, too.

By checking out New Zealand by car and staying in some of the most welcoming, characterful, and relaxing accommodations New Zealand has to offer - we ensure that you're in the perfect position to truly see the 'real' New Zealand, only some very select few ever do.

If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, we're here to help you find the car that best suits your requirements - including the right size, and budget.

Which size car suits you best?

"State Highway 6 from Greymouth to Westport on the West Coast of the South Island is stunning, especially during sunset."

Kim, TravelEssence customer

Road trip ideas for New Zealand

New Zealand’s 10 best scenic drives

New Zealand is home to the world’s most stunning scenic drives. Be amazed at every turn.

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5 Weeks in New Zealand and Australia

Over five weeks, you will go on a journey and marvel at a collection of local gems found in Australia and New Zealand.

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What are the benefits of planning your road trip with TravelEssence?

By choosing to travel with TravelEssence, you will benefit from our many years of experience planning trips to New Zealand, plus a wide range of benefits such as:

Road trips by destination

People walking over a swing bridge
Rotorua
Rotorua is known for its volcanic wonders and rich Maori culture. Be captivated by a geothermal wonderland, intriguing Maori villages, and stunning landscapes.
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A woman dressed in black looking over a turquoise blue crater lake
Tongariro National Park
Home to three active volcanic mountains, and iconic and majestic landscapes, Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand.
Discover more
Explore the outskirts of Wellington | New Zealand holiday
Wellington
Wellington is a vibrant and compact city, bursting with things to see and do. It is located at the bottom of the North Island, overlooking Cook Strait and the spectacular hills and valleys of the South Island.
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Aerial view of a green mountain peak with a river winding around the bottom of it
Queenstown
Discover one of New Zealand's most thrilling destinations - Queenstown - best known as the home of bungee jumping.
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A person in a red t-shirt and black shorts standing near a stream surrounded by mountains
Fiordland National Park
The Fiordland National Park is 1.2 million hectares of unparalleled natural paradise and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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Scenic drive Mount Cook Road | New Zealand holiday

Would you like to find out a little more?

We offer regular online presentations. Get to know New Zealand a little better. And see if you like what we offer and what we can offer you. It’s free, of course, and no obligation. You can find our next online presentations here.

Sign up for an online presentation

Cars vs Campervans or Motorhomes

At TravelEssence, we understand that every detail of your holiday matters - from budget to travel and accommodation.

While campervans and motorhomes are often the preferred option for people looking to road trip across Australia - because of the misconception that they may be cheaper in the long run - we can tell you that, based on our experience, this is not actually the case.

When you factor in all associated expenses - such as insurance, campground fees, fuel, and one-way fees - the overall savings that can be made when hiring a car or 4WD paired with our charming local accommodations becomes clear.

Plus, what many don't realise is that New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes hide some of the best-hidden gems that are only accessible by car or 4WD, so, by hiring a campervan or a motorhome, you will not be able to reach these incredible hidden gems.

Instead of spending your holiday managing logistics and cleaning, we want you to unpack just once and be guided by the insider knowledge of our local hosts and enjoy the real New Zealand only locals know about.

A campervan trip around New Zealand? Yes or no?

Have you been dreaming of meeting the locals, driving the best scenic routes and witnessing the ever-changing landscape?

Read More

New Zealand’s 10 best scenic drives

New Zealand is home to the world’s most stunning scenic drives. Be amazed at every turn.

Read More

Discover more

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.