This is a very green city, with waterfront drives, open parks and plenty to explore in the outdoor world. There are volcanic hills nearby and a fantastic natural harbour lined with beaches and places to hike and walk, including the beautiful beaches of Kohimarama and Mission Bay that are no more than 30 minutes' drive from the city centre.

Stunning walks and trails are just a short drive away and so are incredible islands such as Rangitoto and Great Barrier Island that are dotted off the east coast.

The city itself is a bustling place with good nightlife, a big choice of restaurants, bars and cafes for food and drink, and attractions such as Auckland Museum and the Harbour Bridge.

Car hire is available from several locations in Auckland, with the major pick up point being the airport. There are also several downtown locations on offer. The easiest way to buy car rental is to use our price comparison tool to find the cheapest deal and pick up your car from Auckland International airport (AKL) when you arrive.

Remember that New Zealanders drive on the left hand side of the road and mountain roads can make journeys longer than they might seem.

The North Island of New Zealand offers up some fantastic locations for exploring in your cheap hire car. The magnificent Bay of Islands is a must, along with the Kauri Coast and the Twin Coast Discovery Highway.

Hamilton is a busy city, now famous for its use as a location in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The Bay of Plenty makes a fantastic beach destination - you can even check out the famous kiwi fruit production.

Rotorua is famous for its hot springs and geysers, still bubbling with volcanic activity. The area is also a major centre for Maori culture, the indigenous peoples of New Zealand.

Travelling south you can also visit Taranki with its cone volcano and amazing beaches, Ruapehu for its hot springs and rivers, and the enormous Lake Taupo for peaceful waterborne pursuits.

Wellington sits at the south end of the island with views over the water and acting as the capital of the country. Nearby you can visit the wine areas of Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa.