There is no better place to embark on a road trip than New Zealand. It’s time for the ultimate summer road trip now that the weather has warmed up here. From the rugged West Coast passing by black sand beaches to the soaring, expansive beaches of Northland – New Zealand is gorgeous. The most convenient way to travel is by car. If you’re planning a road trip around the country, you’ll need a different rental car than if you’re going on a city trip. In this article, we explain the differences between them and why you should choose one over the other.
Choosing the right car for your needs
Consider what you really need from a rental car before you start looking. Getting this right could save you a lot of money in the long run and ensure your car rental meets your needs. When you drive mostly to and from work or around town, it might be better to go with something that’s cheap to run and easy to park. It may be easier for you to feel relaxed if your car isn’t too large, especially if you park along the street in the city. This is especially true if you only occasionally take long road trips.
For those who frequently transport kids or carry bulky sports equipment, a car with plenty of space and power might be necessary. Rental cars with cruise control are popular with people who drive long distances on the open road. Taking into account the fact that everyone’s life is different, instead of focusing on what you may want in a car, the idea is to focus on what you really need.
The difference between city cars and open road cars
City cars are divided into two categories based on their size: economy and compact cars. For those who struggle with parking every day, either the Ford Focus or the Holden Spark is a smart choice. A car like this is a wise choice if you are a couple or have a small family. In addition, it’s also a good vehicle that can make the occasional road trip and is fun to drive.
In cities, large cars aren’t the most practical, but on the open road they are excellent. There are many safety features and they are comfortable, but the weight of the vehicle can make driving more challenging. If you spend more time in urban driving environments than on the open road, you may not need a large car. Instead, unless you need some extra room, you may be better off with a smaller one. We offer SUV rental, 7 seater car rental and our 8 seater minivan.
Which size is best for you?
The next step is to start looking for a rental car that fits your needs and scores well for the features that matter to you. While everyone’s checklist will be different, here are some suggestions:
- Are your suitcases, sports gear, or pushchairs going to fit in the luggage space?
- Can you reach the controls easily, are the seats comfortable, is it easy to get in and out of the car?
- The comfort of the rear seats – do you have enough leg room and headroom for the passengers you’ll be transporting?
- Can you load and unload small children easily from the rear door opening if you have small children?
- When driving, do you have good visibility all around, does it accelerate smoothly, stop easily, and handle uneven terrain well?
Once you’ve made your decision book your rental car online or give us a call on +64 (09)4880920