Most rental cars booked through Discover New Zealand are automatic. Manual vehicles are still available from some rental companies, but they're becoming less common and often have more limited availability. If you prefer a manual transmission, it's best to request it when booking, particularly during the busy summer travel season.
Automatic vehicles are now the most common rental car choice in New Zealand, especially among international travellers. They're easier to drive on unfamiliar roads and allow you to focus more on navigating New Zealand's winding highways, mountain passes, and scenic routes.
For most visitors, an automatic vehicle is the simplest and most comfortable option.
Can I request a manual rental car?
Yes, but availability varies between rental companies, vehicle categories, and travel dates.
Manual vehicles are most commonly found in smaller economy cars. Larger SUVs, premium vehicles, hybrids, and electric vehicles are usually automatic only.
If driving a manual car is important to you, let your travel specialist know early in the planning process so suitable options can be checked before availability becomes limited.
Are automatic rental cars more expensive?
In many cases, there is little difference in price between automatic and manual vehicles. The bigger factors affecting rental costs are:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Vehicle size | Larger vehicles generally cost more |
| Travel season | Summer and holiday periods have higher rates |
| Rental duration | Longer hires often reduce the daily cost |
| Pick-up and drop-off locations | One-way rentals can affect pricing |
| Vehicle type | SUVs, premium cars and EVs typically cost more |
Which option is best for travelling around New Zealand?
For most visitors, we'd recommend an automatic vehicle.
New Zealand roads often include narrow rural highways, alpine routes, winding coastal roads, and busy town centres. If you're also adjusting to driving on the left-hand side of the road, an automatic vehicle removes one more thing to think about.
This can be particularly helpful on popular touring routes such as Queenstown to Milford Sound, the West Coast of the South Island, or the Thermal Explorer Highway through the North Island.
Do I need experience driving a manual car in New Zealand?
Yes. If you book a manual vehicle, you should already be confident driving one.
Rental companies won't usually provide instruction, and New Zealand's roads can be challenging in some regions due to changing weather, steep gradients, and narrow sections of highway.
If there's any doubt, choosing an automatic vehicle will usually make for a more relaxed holiday.
What about electric and hybrid rental cars?
Almost all hybrid and electric rental vehicles available in New Zealand are automatic. If you're considering an EV for your trip, have a chat to one of our experienced Travel Specialists to understand charging networks, driving ranges, and route planning.