Very helpful with changes we made. We made quite a few changes due to organising from Australia
Jenny Witney
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Finding your way with Taupo Airport car hire
Explore the heart of the North Island with a Taupo car rental. The incredible lake and surrounding landscapes offer some of New Zealand’s best sightseeing opportunities and adventure activities. The downtown is teeming with dining options and waterfront stays, plus relaxing hot springs are only a short drive away. Compare Taupo car hire to find the best deal and GoSee it all.
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Driving tips for your car hire Taupo
Taupo is a small regional airport and a breeze to get around. Upon landing you’ll see the car rental agents across from the arrival lounge. Collect your luggage, then head to the counter to pick up your keys and find the rental car park located just outside the terminal. Every car hire agency is located on-site at the airport, unless you booked a vehicle from a city centre depot.
- Taupo is a straightforward town to get around, with well-marked signs leading you to top destinations and to the highway.
- The scenic lakeside drive on State Highway 1 south of Taupo is a long, winding road with beautiful views. Keep your eyes on the road and be prepared to slow down.
- Traffic is minimal in this holiday town, however, the main street along the lake often slows down during peak holiday weekends.
- You may lose mobile phone reception if you are travelling the outskirts of Taupo, so be sure to plan your route ahead of time.
Where to go in your Taupo Airport car rental
As a top tourist destination situated smack dab in the middle of the North Island, Taupo offers myriad outdoor activities, lovely dining opportunities, and fantastic cultural experiences.
See a mix of it all in your car hire Taupo:
Huka Falls
Watch a million litres of water pour over the powerful waterfall every few seconds; it’s mesmerising and just a short walk from the carpark.
Craters of the Moon
Teleport to another planet while strolling along the boardwalk at this geothermal park.
The Haka Shop
Enjoy a traditional Maori Hangi dinner and a show learning the history of the local tribes.
Tongariro National Park
Located an hour south of Taupo, this vast National Park is home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a number of waterfalls and ski resorts.
Geothermal hot pools
Unwind at one of the many hot springs situated around the city. Choose from a range of free, affordable and luxurious experiences.
What Taupo car rental is right for your trip
Here are a few tips to help you select a Taupo car hire:
- For budget travellers, choose an economy or compact size hatchback or sedan for best petrol mileage—often the cheapest booking option.
- If you plan to drive your rental cars Taupo to Tongariro National Park or spend a lot of time exploring rugged terrain, pick out a SUV designed for the mountain roads.
- See more of the New Zealand's North Island and drive your Taupo rental cars to Auckland. Check for one-way rental deals, which come up from time to time.
Other interesting places to visit
If you wish to begin your New Zealand tour in another city, consider an Auckland car hire and have a glimpse of the iconic Sky Tower. If you are really keen in adventure sports, you can head to Queenstown in your car rental. Most of all, don't forget to visit NZ's capital, Wellington.
What our customers say
Taupo rental cars: Frequently asked questions
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How much is it to hire a car at Taupo Airport?
The daily rate of a car rental Taupo is dependent on many factors including time of the year, length of hire, and type of vehicle. Use our comparative site and book early to better your chances for securing a great rate.
If you have more questions about the rates, you can call our customer support team for a more accurate rental estimate.
Which car hire agencies are at Taupo Airport?
Taupo Airport offers rental cars from the following agencies: Avis Taupo, Budget Rentals Taupo, Hertz Taupo, and Thrifty. Get the best car rental deals from these companies through GoSee.
If you are downtown, there are also off-airport location suppliers that are available for you. Just make sure you check out their free pick up service policies if you wish to avail this for your convenience.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
If you do not possess a New Zealand driving license, you may need an international driving permit depending on your rental car Taupo agency. Some allow valid foreign driver licenses in English, but it's best to check the rental terms or reach out to the company. If your driver’s license is in a foreign language you will need an International Driving Permit or official translation.
Which car hire companies in Taupo have updated their vehicle cleaning and safety policies because of coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Avis, Budget, Hertz and Thrifty have added enhanced cleaning to every hire car to ensure the safest measures for your rental car experience. Contactless pick up is also an option for Avis and Budget.
How old do I have to be to rent a car from Taupo Airport?
The minimum age to hire a car from Taupo Airport with Hertz is 18 years old, while Avis, Budget and Thrifty have a minimum age of 21 years old. A young driver’s surcharge may apply for those under the age of 25. Check the vehicle rental terms agreement for more details.
How far is downtown Taupo from Taupo Airport?
Taupo is only 10 minutes away from airport. Simply exit the airport in your Taupo car rentals, taking a right onto Lake Terrace which leads into the downtown region.
What is the cheapest car hire agency at Taupo Airport?
The cheapest car hire agency alters depending on car availability and deals provided by our partner providers. Compare up-to-date prices using the search box at the top of the page. It’s best to book early to secure the best price on your Taupo Airport car hire.
Can I rent a car in Taupo and return it somewhere else?
Yes, most car hire agencies allow one-way transfers. You can collect your vehicle hire in Taupo and drop off your car in Gisborne or Hamilton. Enter your details when you book to find out which allows it and how much they charge for the convenience. Check the rental terms for any additional details.
What types of cars can I rent from Taupo Airport?
Taupo Airport car rentals comprise a range of late model rental cars from economy size to SUV. Do note that supply is not as plentiful as some of our larger rental locations so it is best to book well in advance to get your desired Taupo car hire.
What is the speed limit in Taupo?
Along the main highway into Taupo and the rural sections, the speed limit reaches up to 100km/h, however, in the town centre it sits between 30 and 50 km/h. Please abide by posted signs.
