Best Day Trip Locations From NZ’s Most Popular Cities

As you plan your 2022 Spring trips, here is how to make a good trip a great trip: just add a rental car. New Zealand is a big place for a small country. There are sights to see every 50km, all over the North and South Island. So what’s better than visiting one place? Visiting several. We are going to feature some of the best day trip destinations within driving distance of our biggest cities. Next time you take a city break, have a day break from the city and head to one of these idyllic locations.

 

From Auckland to Matakana

Our biggest city, in terms of landmass and population is, of course, Auckland. A trip to Auckland can bring some retail therapy with high-end shopping, fine dining and cocktails atop the Sky tower in the CBD. Auckland has plenty of beaches, surrounding national parks and late-night activities to keep you entertained at all hours. 

If you want a day away to relax from the hustle and bustle, Matakana is just over an hour drive and can provide you with the sanctity that Auckland lacks. With a delightful village pub, famous weekend markets and the popular Sawmill Brewery, Matakana is a perfect place to unwind for the day. 

 

From Wellington to Martinborough

The hilly coastal landscape of Wellington can’t be beaten on a warm Spring day. Take a dip, eat and drink on Cuba street and finish the night off in one of Wellington’s thriving bars. The country’s capital city is rife with art galleries and museums, including New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa. 

Head over the Rimutaka Ranges to the vast vineyards and wineries of Martinborough. The beautiful landscape is a stunning place to waste away the hours and eat local produce whilst sipping some of our best wines in Pallister Estate or Poppies Martinborough.

 

From Christchurch to Kaikōura

Christchurch is worth frequent visits as it is changing and growing so quickly. With so much history and culture on display, you can spend your time enjoying the shops, restaurants, arts or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

Whilst a decent drive away, Kaikōura can be reached in one of our safe and affordable rental vehicles. If you love the sea and love wildlife, this region is not to be missed. Kaikōura boasts whales, seals, dolphins and rare birds. Go snorkelling, scuba diving or stay dry and take one of the popular boat tours to tick all sorts of animals off your bucket list to-see list.

 

From Queenstown to Wanaka

We promise you’ll never get tired of the mountainous views of Otago and all the exciting activities Queenstown has to offer. Skiing? Snowboarding? Bungy jumping? Downhill luge? Panoramic views of the lake and Remarkable mountain range? Queenstown really does have it all.

Wanaka, however, isn’t far behind and is a must-visit destination of the South. More laid back than Queenstown, enjoy a day on the lake and see the famous Wanaka Tree to add to your Instagram grid and achieve this all in a scenic drive in a NZ Rent a Car vehicle. 

 

Hit the road by booking an affordable car now from us.

Book online or call us now. Our operators are available 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. View our branch locations.

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

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New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.