Car Hire in NZ for French Visitors

Heading to New Zealand from France? NZ Rent A Car has been getting international visitors on the road across both islands for over 30 years, from Auckland Airport arrivals through to South Island tours. The biggest adjustment for French drivers is that we drive on the left in New Zealand, so a little planning ahead makes a big difference.

What French Visitors Need for Car Hire in NZ

• A full French driver's licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP) is accepted. A certified English translation is also accepted in place of an IDP
• The minimum age to hire a car is 21 years
• A credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Amex) in the name of the driver is required at pick-up
• All drivers, including additional drivers, present their licence and IDP or translation at the branch

You can arrange a certified English translation through an NZTA-approved translator such as Licence Translation.

Driving in NZ Compared to France

French visitors will find the side of the road the most noticeable change. New Zealand drives on the left, with right-hand-drive vehicles. Beyond that, a few other things to note:

• Open road speed limit is 100 km/h, urban areas 50 km/h
• Give way to traffic going straight when you're turning, and to oncoming traffic (including left-turners) when turning right. At roundabouts, give way to your right.
• NZ roads are often narrower and more winding than French autoroutes
• Drink-driving laws are strictly enforced, with zero tolerance for drivers under 20
• Many rural South Island roads include single-lane bridges and gravel sections

For a full refresher, see our Driving Safely in NZ guide. French-language safe driving resources are also available on the NZTA website.

Pick-Up from Auckland and Key Arrival Airports

French flights to New Zealand typically route via Asia, the Middle East or the Americas and land at Auckland.

• Auckland Airport: branch with a free shuttle from both international and domestic terminals
• Christchurch and Queenstown for South Island arrivals
• Auckland Central, Auckland North Shore, Dunedin, Picton, Blenheim, Nelson and Greymouth for onward travel

One-way rentals are a popular choice for visitors planning a multi-week tour of both islands.

Popular Routes for French Visitors

French visitors typically spend two to four weeks in New Zealand and see both islands. Classic routes include:

• Auckland to Rotorua and Taupo for geothermal scenery and Maori culture
• Auckland to Wellington via Taupo and the central plateau
• Picton to Nelson, the West Coast glaciers, and Queenstown
• Queenstown to Milford Sound for a day trip into Fiordland

See our travel itineraries and attractions pages for more ideas.

What's Included with Your Rental

• 24 hour AA Roadside Assistance across both islands
• Basic insurance cover with an option to reduce the excess (all drivers must be 25+ for the excess reduction)
• Free maps and local area guides at pick-up
• Our mechanical breakdown guarantee: a refund if we cannot fix or replace a vehicle within 24 hours through no fault of yours

Speak to your pick-up branch about excess reduction and any extras to add.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in NZ with a French driver's licence?

Yes. A full French driver's licence with an International Driving Permit (IDP) is accepted by NZ Rent A Car. A certified English translation is also accepted in place of an IDP.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

Yes, because French licences are not in English. Either an IDP or a certified English translation from an NZTA-approved translator is required.

Which side of the road does NZ drive on?

New Zealand drives on the left, with right-hand-drive vehicles. This is the main change for French visitors.

Are automatic vehicles available?

Yes. The majority of our fleet is automatic, which many French visitors prefer while adjusting to left-hand driving.

Can I pick up in Auckland and drop off in Queenstown?

Yes, one-way rentals between branches are available, with minimum hire period and one-way fee calculated in the booking system.

What is the minimum age for car hire?

The minimum age is 21 for all drivers. All drivers must hold a full driver's licence with IDP or translation.

 

Book Your NZ Rental Car from France

Planning a New Zealand trip? NZ Rent A Car makes it easy to book your rental before you fly.