Car hire in Hamilton, New Zealand

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There are 15 car hire providers in Hamilton. Check out the map below to find the most convenient pick-up spot.

The most popular car rental companies in Hamilton

Hiring a car in Hamilton: Fast facts

Here's everything you need to know to hit the road happy.
Most popular car hire companyEzi
Most popular carCompact, 4-5 doors
Average daily priceRs41,103
Best time to book1 week before

How to book the best car rental deals in Hamilton

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Hamilton car rental search.

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Hamilton

  • Pick up a cheap rental car in Hamilton for around Rs41,103 a day and drive away happy. We do the hard work for you by searching all the top providers, helping you find and book the best deal fast.

  • Daily rental prices in Hamilton start from just Rs21,343.

  • Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the main attractions? Rs134,867 is the best rate for a weekly rental.

  • Book early to lock in the best price for a Hamilton car hire. On top of better deals, you're more likely to get the vehicle you actually want.

  • Check out the offers available with Ezi, Bargain Rental Cars and Thrifty. They're among the top-rated providers in the city.

  • Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Hamilton car hire policy, whether you go with Ezi or another supplier. Some companies treat it as an optional extra instead of bundling it in.

  • Choosing a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for finding a deal. Check 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often have to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can score some fantastic one-way prices on a car for rent in Hamilton.

  • Spend less on fuel by choosing a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect the car with a full tank and refill it before drop-off, so you only pay for what you use.

  • Pack more into your journey by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you want without extra charges.

Best value car hire options right now

  • You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average Rs51,774 a day.

  • Offering daily rates of around Rs49,590, this provider is next in line.

  • The third option also helps keep costs down. Expect to pay roughly Rs40,776 a day for one of their rentals.

  • Want a car that makes sense for everyday trips? The Compact rental category is the go-to choice for travellers visiting Hamilton.

Flying to Hamilton? Think about an airport pick-up

  • Keep arrival day hassle-free by picking up a car hire at Hamilton International Airport. If you're flying to Hamilton through this airport, simply pick up your ride after landing and be on your way. The drive to the city centre is about 19 kilometres and takes around 25 minutes.

Compare car hire types in Hamilton

  • Small: These cheap rental cars in Hamilton may be small in size, but they're big on what matters. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to manoeuvre, fuel efficient, and perfect for city runs or weekend trips.

  • Medium: A dependable choice when you want something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a bit of extra room compared to smaller cars.

  • Large: You've got the suitcases, the kids, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to handle it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Hamilton car hire category includes full-size cars.

  • SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and better visibility of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're weaving through remote countryside or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many come with all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.

  • Van: Go for this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Hamilton that makes light work of heavy loads. With options like commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or a bunch of your favourite people.

Insurance and optional extras

  • Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your Hamilton car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.

  • Make your trip smoother when you rent a car in Hamilton by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a GPS unit to be your go-everywhere guide, or reverse cameras that'll help you park like a pro.

Good to know

  • Age requirements vary by supplier (and even car type), so know the rules before you book. Some providers in New Zealand may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you fall outside the typical age range, simply uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to unlock the right options.

  • Bringing the kids with you? Car seat laws vary according to the location, and the correct setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Check if you need to add one to your Hamilton car hire reservation.

  • You'll likely be asked for these three things when picking up your rental car: your physical driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card with enough funds for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Your booking will show the full list of what's required.

  • Take your time getting acquainted with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, test the brakes and turn signals, and get comfortable with its handling before you set off. And remember to stay on the left side of the road in New Zealand.

  • Make sure you follow the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 45kph in urban areas and 95kph or so on highways, unless signs say otherwise.

  • The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in New Zealand is 0.05%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink anything at all.

  • Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run in general. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.

  • The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day expenses and excursions. Use cards when it's possible, but carry a little cash when electronic payments aren't an option.

  • English is the language that most people speak in this country.

Best hotels in Hamilton for drivers

  • Offering parking, Argent Motor Lodge gives you the freedom to come and go as you please. This hotel is around 2 kilometres from central Hamilton and also comes with air conditioning and a ticket office.

  • Or make use of the accessible parking at Stadium Motel. The city centre is roughly 2 kilometres from this stay, which also features internet access and a spa.

  • Like some more inspiration? Browse the lineup of hotels in Hamilton. You can narrow things down using the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' If your car's electric, you can select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter too.

  • It's time to start exploring now you've locked in a car hire deal in Hamilton and your hotel. From Hamilton Pools to Hamilton Gardens and St Peter's Cathedral, you're spoiled for choice on things to do here.

Hit the road: Where to drive to from Hamilton

  • Manukau City has to be on your itinerary if you'd like to visit Japanese park and C3 Manukau. This city is around 97 kilometres north of central Hamilton.

  • They've got hospitality down to a fine art at BKs Pioneer Motel and Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel, two accommodation options with parking in Manukau City.

  • Add Tauranga to your trip lineup. Grab your cheap car hire in Hamilton and drive about 80 kilometres east to take in main draws such as Mauao / Mount Maunganui summit and Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park.

  • Unwind after a big day out in Tauranga at Trinity Wharf Tauranga or Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre. These hotels are a good choice for guests bringing their own car.

  • Why slow down now? Set out for Hastings, about 241 kilometres southeast of Hamilton. From Cherry blossom forest to Cornwall Park, your journey will end on a high note.

  • Catch up on sleep in Hastings at either Valdez Motor Lodge or Mangapapa Hotel. They've got a bed waiting for you and a place to park too.

Frequently asked questions

On average, hiring a car in Hamilton will set you back around Rs40,927 per day or Rs147,004 per week. 
The cheapest car to rent in Hamilton is a compact van or truck. The most popular is Compact, 4-5 doors.
The cheapest car hire companies in Hamilton are currently Hertz and Thrifty.
Bagging the best car hire deal depends on when you book  – often, it pays to book your wheels as far in advance as possible. But according to our data, the cheapest month to rent a car in Hamilton is currently March.
On average, around Rs147,004. But the best price we found for car hire for a week in Hamilton is Rs134,288.
Based on everything we know about daily prices, the average cost to hire a car in Hamilton for a whole month is Rs1,242,624. 

But sometimes, you'll get a discount for booking a whole month instead of 3 and a half weeks. So play with your dates to find the best deals!
If you're looking for freedom to explore Hamilton, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Hamilton that have free cancellation
Yes – you can easily find car hire companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select ‘Return car to a different location’ when you search with us.
Public transport can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, for as long as you want. And you'll be able to discover more outside of Hamilton.
Most places – Hamilton included – allow under 25s to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance excess for young drivers. 
The cheapest price we found for an economy car is Rs26,932 per day. The average price per day is around Rs29,309.
Of course. Most major car hire companies like Ezi, Rite Price Rentals and Hertz offer baby and child seats as an add-on when you book.
Other travellers rated Ezi as the best overall in terms of experience.
Yes – van hire is available in Hamilton.