Rent a car for FREE

If you’re road-tripping in New Zealand and want to save on rental costs, Transfercar is a game-changer. It’s a relocation service where rental companies need vehicles moved between cities, and you can drive them for free or super cheap (sometimes even with fuel included!).

The catch? You have to work with the schedule they give you. Most relocations need to be done in a set time frame—like Queenstown to Christchurch in 2–3 days—so it’s ideal if you’re flexible with your itinerary. It’s a great way to get a free car or campervan for part of your trip, especially if you’re planning to travel between major hubs like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown.

To snag a deal, check the Transfercar website regularly, as new vehicles pop up all the time. Just make sure to factor in extra costs like insurance or any additional days you might need beyond the free period. If you’re up for a bit of spontaneity, this is one of the best ways to explore New Zealand on a budget :)