Best Way to Travel New Zealand (Transport Guide)

Car Rental in New Zealand

If you want complete freedom while exploring New Zealand, renting a car is easily the best option. It gives you the flexibility to reach hidden beaches, quiet hiking trails, and charming small towns at your own pace—places that are often difficult to access otherwise. Prices jump fast in busy seasons, so comparing options early will save you money.

We used Discover Cars to find the best rate to hire a car in North Island, while the 10 days in South Island were on a motorhome with Camplify!

Campervans in New Zealand

A campervan is basically your transport, and accommodation rolled into one — perfect for road-tripping through NZ and staying at holiday parks or freedom camping spots. What you pick really depends on your budget.

👉 Check out our detailed guide to help you get started.

• Budget-friendly: Camplify, Jucy, Spaceships, Travellers Autobarn, Epic Campers — simple, backpacker-friendly vans.

• Medium Budget: Mad Campers, Indie Campers, Britz — newer vans with better comfort and storage.

• High Budget: Wilderness, Maui, Cheapa Campa, Apollo — premium setups with heating, bathrooms, and hotel-like interiors.

Public Transport in New Zealand

Public transport is decent if you’re sticking to big cities or popular routes, but it becomes limited once you head into more remote areas. InterCity buses and KiwiRail Scenic Journeys cover long distances, while Interislander and Bluebridge ferries connect the two islands. In cities, AT in Auckland, Metlink in Wellington, and Christchurch Metro handle most local travel reliably. However, if you want true flexibility and easy access to remote spots, renting a car or choosing a campervan is definitely the better option.