As a Brit, the first thing to remember when you rent a car in New Zealand is that driving happens on the left-hand side of the road, the same as in the UK. That's one less thing to worry about, right?
However, be aware that many road rules and signs could be different. Before you hit the road, it's worth a quick check of the road rules.
Pick Up Your Rental Car at Nelson Airport
Nelson Airport offers a number of on-site car hire services. Among these are global rental services like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and more. Rental desks can be found in the main terminal building. Keep in mind, it is highly recommended to book your car rental ahead of time, especially in high season.
Fuel Up
Z does fuel differently, located 1.6km away, is the closest petrol station to Nelson Airport. Don't forget to fill up before the return of your rental car!
On the Road: NZ Driving Routes
The airport is conveniently located just 6km southwest of the city centre of Nelson, about 15 minutes away by car. The picturesque scenic drive set against the backdrop of the Tasman Sea will surely start your trip on a high note.
Car Rental Recommendations
Size matters! With the beautiful mountainous and coastal roads of New Zealand, you might want to opt for a smaller car for better handling, or perhaps an SUV for a more comfortable journey.
Accessibility
Nelson has a small, user-friendly airport that offers disabled parking spaces, wheelchair access, and assistance for passengers with disabilities.
Climate, Best Time to Visit
Nelson enjoys a temperate maritime climate with average highs of 22°C (71°F) in summer (December to February) and average lows of 3°C (37°F) in winter (June to August), perfect for outdoor activities all year round.
Currency
The currency used is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but do carry some cash for roadside stalls and smaller shops.
Places to Visit
Richmond (13.7km), Mapua (23km), and Motueka (37km) are some of the nearby towns you should consider visiting. These places boast a unique blend of craft breweries, boutique shops, art galleries and stunning sceneries.
We hope this guide assists you well in your travel preparations. Here’s to the most adventurous and memorable car journey in New Zealand!
