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.
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.
"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
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:
- New cars, as all of our cars are six months old or less, with all the features necessary to make your road trip comfortable.
- A choice between a compact, medium, or large SUV, depending on your individual needs and requirements.
- No one-way fees when booking rental cars through us, as we plan your travel route so that this is minimised or even avoided altogether.
- Cheaper comprehensive insurance with zero excess, thanks to our exclusive partnerships with local suppliers.
- Better value car hire with extended off-season rental car rates and significantly lower comprehensive insurance.
- The ability to drive your rental car to places that are usually prohibited if you were to book online yourself.
- Sustainable travel - your holiday is CO2 neutral as we offset all carbon emissions from our customer's flights, road travel, and business operations.
Road trips by destination
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 presentationCars 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.
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.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.