Nelson car hire
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Cheap car hire in Nelson
KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Nelson
- The minimum age to hire a vehicle in New Zealand is 18. However, if you're aged between 18 and 25, you may find that many Nelson car hire companies either don’t accept younger drivers or charge an additional fee. This may limit the range of vehicles you’re able to hire, so a good strategy is to compare different options through KAYAK and check the prices, policies and conditions. This should help you find a hire agency in Nelson that’s willing to accept younger drivers.
- New Zealand car seat rules apply to all hire vehicles, so if you’re travelling with little ones, you’ll need to bring the appropriate seat or add one to your booking. All kids under seven will require a booster or child car seat under New Zealand law. From ages seven to eight, you should use approved child safety restraints if they are fitted to the vehicle. Children aged eight to 14 should be buckled into safety belts, and at these ages, it’s recommended that they don't travel in the front seat. Whether you’re opting for a luxury SUV or cheap car hire in Nelson, you’ll generally be able to add age-appropriate child seats to your hire.
- In New Zealand, the blood alcohol limit for drivers over the age of 20 is 0.05%. Note that, for drivers under 20 years of age the limit is strictly 0.00%. The Nelson police frequently conduct roadside drug impairment tests and breath tests to enforce this regulation. It is not advisable to take the risk of driving while under the influence, as there are severe penalties for violating this law, including specific charges for anyone who refuses to consent to a breath test or provide a blood sample if asked by an officer. To avoid any accidents or legal trouble, it is always recommended to be cautious and refrain from driving while intoxicated.
- Hire a car in Nelson to easily transport all your beach equipment and luggage without having to worry about carrying it on public transport. The last bus services in Nelson depart between 18:00–19:00, meaning a hire car is your best option for eating out and sampling the nightlife. Wineries throughout the region, such as Seifried Estate and Neudorf, are easily reached with a hire car, taking the stress out of organising shuttles or booking taxis. The 1h 15min drive to Abel Tasman National Park is shorter than the 1h 45min bus journey and offers more flexibility as the bus only runs once per day.
- Once you land at Nelson Airport (NSN), turn left as you exit the terminal building and walk approximately 50 m to find the car hire offices. Vehicles can be picked up directly behind the reception desks, meaning no shuttles are required for hire companies with kiosks on site. A shuttle van pick up area is located 150 m to the right of the terminal, next to Airport House, for companies with offices off airport grounds.
- Be wary approaching corners on coastal roads, such as State Hwy 6, around Nelson as a clear view of oncoming vehicles can be obstructed. Single-lane bridges are scattered across the South Island of New Zealand; it’s important to give way to any vehicles already crossing and read the priority sign (larger arrows indicate priority for crossing). The winding Nelson roads invite many cyclists and drivers should provide a safe distance of at least 1.5 m when passing.
- Traffic peaks between 08:00–09:30 and 16:00–17:30 in Nelson; however, congestion is not nearly as bad as most major cities in New Zealand. If driving during these periods, allow an additional 10–15min and you will reach your destination smoothly. Annesbrook Dr and Tahunanui Dr are two of the major arterial roads that are most affected by commuter travel in rush hours.
- Book your car hire in Nelson at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Compact hire cars in Nelson are around 19% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about hiring a car in Nelson
What type of car is recommended for driving in Nelson?
With wide roads and manageable traffic, intermediate models offer a comfortable ride without sacrificing practicality. Full-size cars navigate Nelson’s winding coastal roads well, providing steady traction and control around bends. 4WDs are competitively priced considering the additional storage space and power they deliver.
What’s the speed limit in Nelson?
Unless indicated otherwise, the default limit in Nelson is 50 km/h. Highways, including Queen Elizabeth II Dr, are set at 100 km/h, while school zones are reduced to 40 km/h.
Where are the best places to park in Nelson?
The first hour of metered car parks in Nelson’s CBD is free, with restrictions in place from 08:00–17:00 on Monday to Friday and 09:00–13:00 on Saturdays. Buxton Square Car Park has 3h spaces for around A$ 4 and Hathaway Terrace Parking has free, unrestricted spaces.
How much is the price of fuel in Nelson?
The average price of fuel in Nelson is €5.96 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between €71 and €95, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular car hire in Nelson?
Compact (Mitsubishi ASX or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Nelson.
How can I find car hires near me in Nelson?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does a Compact car hire cost in Nelson?
A Compact car hire in Nelson costs €51 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car hire cost in Nelson?
A Standard car hire in Nelson costs €78 per day, on average.
How much does a Full Size car hire cost in Nelson?
A Full Size car hire in Nelson costs €73 per day, on average.
Which hybrid or electric vehicles are available to hire in Nelson?
Nelson car hire companies offer a range of hybrid and electric vehicles, including Toyota Corolla, Tesla Model 3, Suzuki Jimny and Kia Niro. If you want cheap car hire in Nelson that’s also eco-friendly, compact hybrid models tend to be a cost-effective option.
How can I use an overseas driver’s licence to hire a car in Nelson?
It is certainly possible, but do note that if your licence is in a language other than English, you will also need to get an International Driver's Permit in your country of origin. It's also worth knowing that some hire agencies impose a stricter age limit on drivers with IDPs.
Nelson car rental reviews and directory All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car hire booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.
Avis
10.0
Wonderful
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Terminal Building
+64 3 547 2727
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jul 2023
Compact SUV
Europcar
10.0
Wonderful
Read 2 reviewsCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Terminal Building
+64 3 265 5201
Filters
Show reviews that mention
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Mar 2020
Pros:
Great car. Friendly staff.Cons:
Nothing10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Feb 2024
Compact
EZI
10.0
Wonderful
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Standard SUV
Hertz
10.0
Wonderful
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Trent Drive
+64 3 547 2299
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2023
Intermediate SUV
Apex
8.0
Very Good
Read 2 reviewsCleanliness
8.6
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.3
Value for money
8.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
4 Trent Drive, Tahunanui
+64 3547 6800
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Nov 2024
Intermediate
8.0 Very Good
Matthew, Jul 2022
Firefly
6.4
Okay
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.0
Value for money
8.0
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Nelson
+64 3547 2299
Filters
Show reviews that mention
Reviews
6.4 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2020
Pros:
Drop off was simple.The vehicle was fine.Cons:
I booked it under your Webb site with the no excess option. But when we picked up the car, I had to sign the contract that had a $5500.00 x/s. I was not happy, and your staff said it was not there problem as it was insured with another company, not them, but as I told them it was booked thru the Firefly web site. The manager got involved but his answer was not our problem and said give me the keys back and get a rental from another company. The final insult was when I had to pay another $200.00 just in case I didn’t fill the car upon my return. I did fill the tank on my return. I am still waiting on the 200.00 to be refunded. Overall a very disappointing and stressful experience. Mary and Dennis Hunt.One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Domestic Terminal
+64 3 547 9586
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Sept 2023
Compact SUV
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Trent Drive
+64 800 243 789
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2024
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Rental Car Building Trent Dr
+64 9 870 3330
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Nelson Airport
+64 3 974 3700
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No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Rental Car Building Trent Dr
+64 9 870 3330
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No reviews available
2 locations in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Nelson Ap
+64 3 547 5563
Trent Drive
+64 800 737 070
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No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Terminal Building - Meet & Greet
64 3 5738800
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Nelson Airport
+64 3 288 0097
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Nelson Airport
+64 3 974 3700
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Rental Car Kiosk, Terminal Building Trent Drive, Nelson
+64 800 656 564
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Terminal Building
+86 10 6064 1387
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Nelson
Locations in Nelson
Filters
No reviews available
Car hire locations in or near Nelson
Good to know
Most popular car type | Compact |
|---|
When to book a car hire in Nelson
Car hire insurance in Nelson
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection Waiver
Some Nelson car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend always be aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Nelson.
Deductible
Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a no-deductible option to your Nelson car hire.
Everything you need to know for your car hire in Nelson
Car rental at airports serving Nelson
Nelson car hire information
| Pick-up location | Nelson |
|---|---|
| Car types | |
| Hire locations | 20 |
| Airport locations | 20 |